According to a recent survey by AAA Travel, approximately 100 million Americans—or four in every 10 adults—plan to take a family vacation in 2019. Although vacationing might seem tempting, planning a vacation can be difficult if you’re on a budget. Here’s are some memorable and budget-friendly vacation ideas that the whole family can enjoy.
Waikiki, HI
Hawaii is frequently ranked as a top vacation destination for its scenic beaches and unique tourist experiences. Vacationing in Hawaii is a great way to immerse the family in culture, disconnect from daily routine, and enjoy the perfect weather.
While it might seem tempting to stay on the beach or attend luaus for the entirety of your stay, consider checking out some of the one-of-a-kind experiences that Hawaii has to offer. If you’re looking for a fun and affordable activity to try with the kids, the Ohana Surf Project offers surfing lesson training for surfers of all skill levels. The children can focus on the basic elements of surfing, while the adults can hone in on their strengths and weaknesses. All you’ll need to bring is a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Lansing, MI
Vacationing in Lansing, MI makes it easy for families to explore the state of Michigan without incurring the travel expenses of costly metropolitan areas like Grand Rapids. Michigan’s capital region is located in central Michigan and in the heart of the Midwest, making it a 90-minute drive from the state’s major cities.
From diverse dining to live music and vibrant art districts, Greater Lansing offers a wide variety of activities for the whole family. If you’re interested in planning an adventurous weekend and exploring Lansing like a local, take the LAN150 Challenge by printing out the LAN150 “bucket list” and making a stop at each attraction.
While you’re in Michigan, make sure to immerse the family in the culture and arts with world-class live performances or attend a game on the campus of Michigan State University. To make your vacation even more affordable, consider planning out travel accomodations in advance and planning out your meals.
Halifax, PA
If you’re planning a vacation with the kids, a trip to Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax, PA is non-negotiable. Considered a premier tourist location since 1965, Lake Tobias Wildlife Park features hundreds of acres of wildlife, along with free-roam animals.
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park is well-known for its educational and exciting interactive safari tour. The tour spans across 150 acres of rolling hills, allowing visits to see hundreds of exotic animals roaming freely. Due to their familiarity with the tour, animals are often seen walking alongside the open-top buses, giving visitors the opportunity to pet and interact with them.
The Wildlife Park also features an exotic zoo with tigers, alligators, and bamboos. The zoo provides numerous educational activities for both adults and children at an affordable price. Additionally, the park’s baby animal program, which involves staff members walking around the park with young and newborn animals, allows guests to interact with the animals and ask staff members questions. The petting zoo, which is a popular attraction among younger children, gives children the opportunity to pet and feed the llamas, alpacas, and pygmy goats.
Contrary to popular belief, planning an adventurous and memorable vacation with the family is possible on a budget. With more and more families planning a vacation in the upcoming year, now is a great time to book your travel plans. Ultimately, be sure to choose a vacation destination that will allow every member of the family to relax and indulge in their favorite activities.
