10 Easy ways to SAVE BIG on your next family trip!

Going on a road trip can be a fun and exciting way to explore new places, but it can also be expensive. From gas to food and lodging, the costs can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money while still enjoying the adventure.

So here they are: 10 ways to save money when traveling or road-tripping.

#1 - House sitting

If you're planning a road trip, consider house sitting instead of booking hotels or Airbnb accommodations. Many people need someone to look after their home while they're away and will offer free lodging in exchange for house sitting services.

Trusted house sitters is a website that sets up home owners with travelers.

#2 - Book flights 5 weeks in advance

If your road trip requires flights, or if you're just visiting a different country, booking them five weeks before the departure date can help you save money. 5 weeks before departure is generally when prices are the lowest!

Remember to always use incognito mode to book both flights and hotels. This will prevent the site from charging an expensive rate based on your location.

#3 - Use gas reward programs

Gas is one of the biggest expenses on a road trip, but many gas stations offer reward programs that can help you save money. Some programs offer discounts on gas prices, while others offer cashback rewards that you can use towards future purchases.

Some stations even partner up with grocery stores rewards programs and you can save on both!

#4 - Offer your services

If you're a photographer, a content creator, a virtual assistant, a social media manager, a writer, a coach, a healer, or a musician, you can offer your services to local businesses in exchange for free or discounted products or services. This can help you save money on food, lodging, and activities while also building your portfolio.

This one can go a long way! Our experience has been offering our services as content creators but some times you can even exchange a masterclass on social media for employees at a hotel in exchange for services and a night stay.

Never underestimate the power of your skills and gifts. Seriously, try it!

#5 - Pack food and snacks

This might be too obvious but eating out can be expensive for some budgets, so consider packing your own food and snacks for the road trip. This can help you save money while also ensuring that you have healthy options available.

#6 - Camp instead of staying in hotels some nights

Camping can be a great way to save money on lodging while also enjoying the outdoors. Many campsites offer affordable rates and amenities such as showers and bathrooms, but please bring sandals or water shoes to shower with :)

#7 - Use travel rewards credit cards

If you have a travel rewards credit card, you can use it to earn points and miles that can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.

Just be sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid insane interest charges.

#8 - Take advantage of free activities

Many cities and towns offer free activities such as museums, parks, festivals, hikes, landmarks, etc. Research the areas you'll be visiting ahead of time to find out what free activities are available.

The first thing we always look for are hikes with epic views! This is our most common activity we do when traveling.

#9 - Use discount websites to book activities

Websites like Groupon and LivingSocial offer discounted rates on activities, dining, and lodging. Be sure to check these sites before booking anything to see if you can save money.

Some activities we have booked in sites like these are: Sunset dinners on boats, whale watching tours, kayak tours... there are lots of options.

#10 - Plan your route in advance

Planning your route in advance can help you save money on gas by taking the most efficient route. It can also help you avoid toll roads and other unnecessary expenses. We love www.roadtrippers.com to figure out the best way to visit all the spots we want to visit and to make this process EASY.

there are several ways to save money when going on a road trip.

By using these tips, you can reduce your expenses and make the most of your adventure without breaking the bank.

Happy exploring!