This summer many families would love to travel great distances for a memorable family vacation, but are unable to do so due to tight budgets (i.e. inflation in gas and grocery prices). A great option for families in this situation is to go on day trips. Day trips are trips in which a family will spend an entire day doing fun activities and then return home at night.
Day Trip Ideas
Listed below are many places that a family can go to for day trips:
- Museums
- Amusement Parks
- Science Centers
- Beaches
- Water Parks
- Swimming Pools
- Parks
- State Fairs
- Community Festivities
- Church Festivities
- Malls (i.e. Mall of America)
- Special Restaurants
- Medieval Times (show and meal usually included)
Day Trip Budget Tips
Most day trips will require you to do some traveling. With the inflation of gas prices, it is helpful to find ways to save money when you go on your day trips. Listed below are some ways to save money:
- Use coupons or find information about daily specials for eating out
- Pack a lunch (especially if you are going to a park, beach, or amusement park)
- Do an internet search for coupons to purchase admission tickets or daily deals at amusement parks, museums, etc.
- Take snacks and drinks with you (bottle water and juice boxes work great)
- Locate the best gas prices to and from your destination
- Set a limit on what will be purchased in regards to souvenirs (i.e. each child can buy one souvenir $5.00 or less)
- Take a disposable camera with a flash
- Take sunscreen and towels if you are going to a swimming pool, water park, beach, etc.
- If possible, eat before you go on your trip (this will save you from purchasing an extra meal)
- For state fairs and/or amusement parks, if applicable, purchase a ticket wristband (you will pay one price with unlimited access to rides)
There are many places to go and things to do during a day trip. These day trips will allow your family and you the opportunity to have a mini vacation. You will also have the opportunity to save money by following the budget tips stated above. Maybe enough to put towards paying for another day trip.
