Family vacations offer opportunities to create lifelong memories, but they can also be a source of great financial stress if you’re not careful. Between airfare, lodging, meals and activities, the costs can stack up faster than you can say “Are we there yet?” Here’s the good news: with a little planning, creativity and flexibility, you can give your family an unforgettable vacation without draining your savings account. Here are some tips on how to make that happen:

1. Start with a Budget (And Stick to It)
Before you dive into the latest social media vacation trends, take an honest look at your finances. Set a realistic budget for your trip that includes travel, lodging, food, activities and a little wiggle room for surprises or souvenirs.

Make sure you talk to your family about the budget, since managing expectations up front can help you avoid overspending. Let them prioritize what is most important, whether that is a day at a theme park or a fancy dinner. If everyone is on the same page, you’ll be less tempted to splurge on something out of the budget.

2. Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations
Summer is a peak travel time for many families with children who are out of school, but that can mean vacations may come with a hefty price tag. If your family can be flexible, consider traveling during the months in between summer and holiday breaks. On top of lower prices, crowds are usually thinner, making for even more time or space to enjoy your destination. And, put a reminder in your calendar for next year to start planning early in the year to get the very best prices.

3. Hunt for Deals
Use travel deal websites for airfare alerts and discount booking platforms. Tools like Google Flights, Hopper and Skyscanner can help you track flight prices and snag the best deals. If you’re near a major port, VacationsToGo’s 90 Day Tracker is a great resource for finding last-minute cruise deals. Don’t forget to check for family packages in your loyalty programs, such as Costco, AAA and credit card travel rewards. Plus, SDCCU offers members-only discounts to a variety of theme park destinations. SDCCU members can access available member discounts by logging into Internet Branch and visiting the Self Service section.

4. Think Beyond Hotels
Hotels can be pricey, especially when you’re booking multiple rooms or needing extra space for a large group. Consider vacation rentals, or even house-swapping sites, that let you trade homes with other vacationers. These homes usually include kitchens, giving you an opportunity to save money on eating out, too!

5. Embrace the Road Trip
If airfare is breaking your budget, consider a good old-fashioned road trip. Not only can it be more affordable, but it also lets you explore hidden gems along the way. Plus, road trips can create their own special kind of family bonding. You might even find a hidden superstar during a round of car karaoke!

6. Plan Activities Wisely
You don’t have to fill every day with expensive tours or attractions. Research free or inexpensive activities like local parks, beaches, museums with free admission days or hiking trails. This is also a great opportunity to get the kids involved in the planning process. They might uncover ideas you might not have considered.

7. Pack Smart
Packing snacks, refillable water bottles and even over-the-counter medications can help you avoid overpriced airport or hotel lobby items. A little pre-trip organization can save a surprising amount of cash. Vacation checklists help you plan ahead and pack items you have at home that you may need on your trip.

Travel Smart, Spend Less, Enjoy More
Family vacations don’t have to mean financial headaches. With some careful planning, creative thinking and a dash of flexibility, you can plan a trip that keeps both your family and your wallet happy. After all, the best memories aren’t about how much money you spent, they are about the time you spent together. And wherever you go, don’t forget to get your account travel-ready by setting a travel alert on your account so there is no disruption to your account access while you travel.

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