Teaching Kids How to Budget and Save Money for a Family Vacation

Family Vacations on a Budget

Smart Savings this Summer: Budgeting for a Family Vacation

By Joe Laing, El Monte RV

No one disagrees with the notion that it’s hard to save money and stick to a budget, whether you’re an individual or a family unit. But sometimes, the reward in the long run can be worth a little bit of penny-pinching in the present, especially when it comes to your summer family vacation. Do you really want to let the kids down this June and tell them that the family can’t afford to take a few days and road trip together someplace interesting? You can avoid that unpleasant, disheartening scene with a little bit of planning–and not as many sacrifices as you might think.

Why Budget

If you’ve never educated the kids (or your spouse!) regarding the purpose of a budget, having a family meeting before getting started is essential. Let everyone know that a budget is a fun, responsible way to make sure enough money is available for a vacation that year. Keep in mind the following when discussing the family budget:

8 Tips to Save on Dining Out

Save on Dining Out

8 Ways to Save Money on Dining Out

 

By Andrea Woroch

There are many ways to save on dining out, whether it’s at your favorite diner or the best restaurant in town. Read on for tips to enjoy a tasty evening without overindulging your financial appetite.

1. Tune Your Radar
Since celebrity chefs congregate in big cities like New York and Los Angeles, you may assume Restaurant Week is only available in those locations. Wrong! If you live in or near cities such as Denver, Chicago, Charleston, Ann Arbor and San Diego, you have access to great food for less, too. A quick Google search should educate you on the timeframe and participating restaurants in your area.

2. Get Rewarded for Research
By now you know to never enter a new restaurant without first reading reviews. Sites like Yelp.com dominate restaurant review resources, but sometimes you can also find a voucher for additional savings. This is especially true for new restaurants hoping to build a customer base.

Celebrate the Holidays Without Breaking the Bank

How to Celebrate the Holidays Without Breaking the Bank

Stay on a Budget during the Holidays

 

by Andrea Woroch

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and that means a busy schedule full of holiday parties with friends, families, coworkers and neighbors. Depending on your social scene and business obligations, your calendar may quickly fill up with back-to-back festivities, all during the time of year that is most hectic and expensive for many. So how to stay financially sane during the holiday-party season? Here are several tips on how to host, gift and dress up for less.