If you’re traveling as a family, or even solo, you may already have enough on your hands without having to stick to a rigid schedule. Having to wake up kids in the dark hours of the morning for a flight and checking-in should be the maximum amount of time management you need while on vacation.
Traveling on your own terms also has financial implications: you can save money where you want and invest it when you feel it’s necessary. If you’re hoping to get away and not have to keep checking your watch, here are a few tips and tricks to work by your own schedule.
Skip hotels entirely
Hotels are brilliant if you’re after a spot of luxury, but not if you’re looking for a lie-in without missing breakfast. Hotels often have incredibly strict times by when you need to check in and check out, and if you want to eat at your hotel, you’ll need to be there on time, too. By using motorhomes, or hosting companies such as Airbnb to find accommodation, the most you have to do is check in and out according to when the host wants you there.
Most airbnbs offer wifi now too to entice travellers on the go. Even though you might be the only one on the network, make sure to protect yourself since you never know what type of settings they might have in place as your browse. Breakfast is served when you want it to, and mealtimes are based entirely on when you are ready. Checking reviews and online platforms for ratings of your host are always a great way of checking that you will receive the service you expect.
Camp or caravan
If you love a bit of the outdoors, then camping or traveling with a campervan are great ways of working to your own schedule. Camping sites will have their own ground rules, but in terms of when you get up – it’s entirely up to you. Taking a caravan with you also enables you to do as you wish, and with far more creature comforts. If you’re thinking of investing in a caravan, or financing one with no deposit, then checking online to see what finance deal you would be offered before applying is a great way to start.
Choose free family activities
Group tours and attractions are brilliant fun for families, but sometimes it’s good to save some money. Vacations can already be incredibly expensive and spending money on museum tickets, meals out and souvenirs can all add up over time. Encouraging everyone to get out and enjoy the outdoors is a great way to save money and get everyone talking and laughing. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Visit the beach: walks, ballgames, and swimming.
- Go hiking: Find local trails and paths that are family-friendly.
- Visit free day-long attractions: some museums and attractions have free exhibits which are open all day.
- Bring your own bikes: Keeping your bikes in the caravan or strapped to the roof of your vehicle will enable you to go mountain biking without using rentals.
Having no rigid timings on your vacation means that you can prioritize spending time together as a family, rather than planning around where you have to be at specific times. By camping or caravanning and avoiding planned meals, you can not only save time but also money.
