Looking for an affordable family vacation? Hit the road!

1. Set a budget and save money

Determine your travel budget first. Budgeting helps you enjoy your family holiday without stressing yourself. Simple method: establish a maximum trip spend and divide it by the number of days you want to holiday.

2. Map your route

Using Google Maps to plan your road trip may save you money. Enter your departure and destination to map the route. Click the three dots in the upper right to toggle route choices like avoid tolls .

3. Select your stays

For big families, pre-booking holiday accommodations along your trip may save money. Vacation rentals are available in big cities and small communities, giving you more lodging alternatives. Unless you need to remain in a large city center.

4. Bring the essentials

While you are packing, make a list of items that could need replacement while you are traveling, and make an effort to carry enough of them to last the whole trip.

5. Go off peak

Travel dates and destinations affect lodging rates. Visit off-season if your money is limited and your schedule is flexible. Traveling during school breaks or over a long weekend saves money on vacation rentals, attractions, and vehicle rentals.

6. Tune your ride

If you're taking your own car across the country with your family, it's important to keep it in good shape. Before you leave, make sure your headlights and wiper blades work, change the oil, and check the pressure of your tires.

7. Drive responsibly

Did you realize aggressive speeding and braking reduce highway gas mileage by 15% to 30%? Cruise control, slowing down, and minimizing sudden speed changes can help you get more gas from each tank.