Family Fun on a Small Budget

Need some inexpensive souvenir ideas? My all-time favorite souvenir for my daughters was the best $6.00 investment I ever made, and it is a great idea for all ages – autograph books! Although they are now teens, they still take them along whenever we visit the theme parks. Their favorite autograph? Barbie, which was collected a few years ago during a special at Epcot.

Other favorites of mine and my children are hats, t-shirts, pencils or pens that can be taken to school for bragging rights, themed jewelry, and scrapbooks. Another nice idea for older children and teens is disposable cameras for making their own memories. Oh, and don't forget the FREE souvenirs... shells from the beach or a notepad from the hotel.

When you do shop for those souvenirs, look for sales, and use discount coupons. Try shopping at outlet malls near where you are visiting. They often have the same merchandise at discounted prices.

Limitless Savings

These hotels also many times offer amenities that cater specifically to children – playgrounds, in-room videos, and special kid-themed play rooms. Some offer special programs – both daytime and evenings – that are sometimes available at no extra charge. That means your children are having supervised fun with other children while you get a few minutes to relax or enjoy a leisurely meal.

If you've never camped as a family, try it! Rent an RV or trailer, borrow a tent, or buy an inexpensive one – often any of these options are less expensive than a hotel room for the week. Florida has a great State Park system with wilderness or beach camping available throughout the state.

If your budget isn't up to the $50.00 plus a day theme park tickets, choose the less expensive attractions. Look for hands-on museums and science centers that are particularly kid-friendly. Your school-age children and teens will be just as happy with a roll of quarters and an afternoon at an arcade. Shopping areas near major attractions are now offering themed play areas that include playground equipment and amusement rides. Eco-tours are educational, fun and often a less expensive option.

Do the savings stop there? No. Bring along your own stroller when visiting theme parks for a savings of $7.00 or more each day. A family of four might save as much as $20.00 on bottled water each day by simply carrying refillable water bottles. Picnic on road trips. Collect shells at the beach and make your own souvenirs. You need not be limited by your budget – only by your imagination.

Planning ahead and staying flexible is important. Taking a vacation on a budget can be a learning experience. You are teaching lessons to your children about life. You are showing them that relationships and family are more important than places and things. You are teaching them to put instant gratification aside, and you are promoting good financial habits that they will carry with them into adulthood. Most importantly, you are showing them how to have a great time!