Short Road Trips on a Budget

This coming spring break will be a challenge to those that are on a very tight budget. Staying local is a good option if you plan ahead. Here are some tips on how you can still have fun without going broke this coming spring break.

Plan short day trips to local non-required admission attractions. The local beach, lake or river are good choices. Regional and city parks often have hiking or biking trails, take advantage of them. A family biking trip that just lasts a few hours will often recharge your mind and soul. Take along your camera and make your outing into a photography session. Many of those parks also have historic markers and museums, investigate them.

Pack your own snacks, lunches or dinner so you don't have to stop somewhere to eat. Don't forget to pack lots of water if you plan on doing any hiking. You can still get dehydrated even though the weather is not hot. Gas will be your greatest expense on road trips so try and budget for it well ahead of your road trip. Avoid overnight trips as hotel stays will cut into your budget. If you have to stay overnight call ahead to the motels and hotels in the area you plan on visiting and ask them if they are offering any discounts or special deals. They want your business and might make you a special deal over the phone.

Do some online investigation of your local neighborhood. It probably has a few historic buildings worth visiting. You might be able to do a walking tour of those buildings. Local business also offer free tours of their businesses. Do you have a local chocolate factory or candy factory? Those types of factories are often a great hit with the children in your family.

You own city probably has it's own public indoor swimming pool, tennis courts and basketball courts, take advantage of them. The swimming pool is probably the only facility that will have an admission charge. Check with your city's website for any special spring break goings on and discounts for the swimming pool.

Many movie theaters will be offering kids matinees like they have done in years past. Check with your local theater to see if they will be having a day at the movies just for kids.

Taking a road trip on your spring break does not mean you have to spend the whole day in the car. It does mean that you should keep your time in the car to under 2 hours each way so you can enjoy the destination more than the car trip.