But Wait—There's More
Find other great ideas in these related stories:
- 10 Ways to Stretch Your Dollar in Europe ›
- Wendy Perrin's Favorite Family Destinations ›
- Where Celebrity Families Go on Vacation ›
- Budget Hotels, Expensive Cities: New York City ›
- The U.S.A.'s Weirdest Roadside Attractions ›
- Where Cheaper is Better ›
- Hot New Hotels Under $250 a Night ›
- Cranky Parents' Guide to Family Vacations ›
- Best American Hotels Under $250 a Night ›
- World's Best Bargain Shopping ›
- Hot New Hotels Under $200 ›
FAMILY ROAD TRIPS
That "savecation" word being bandied about? RV-ing could very well be one of the best ways to achieve it. Simply rent a motor home, work out your route, and save a bundle by eating and sleeping on the road—hey, the Partridge Family did it! We suggest you rent something big enough to provide some personal space (a 26- to 30-foot motor home should be big enough for a family of four)—otherwise it could very well be the last family vacation you ever take. Investing in a few lessons on how to drive a behemoth vehicle is probably a good idea, too. According to GoRVing.com, the average rental price of a 26- to 30-foot motor home is $150 a day; even when you add in fuel costs, it's possible to save a bundle on transportation, hotel, and food costs when you travel this way. Slow down a little by choosing a route from the National Scenic Byways Program. For an iconic trip, consider Route 66 from Illinois through New Mexico and finishing in Arizona (give yourself at least six days). Make sure you stop off at the Ted Drewes frozen custard stand in St. Louis—it's been in business since 1929—and when you and the kids are gazing at Sedona's Red Rocks (instead of the TV) as the sun goes down, remind yourself that this is what family holidays are all about.
RSS Feeds