cheap family road trips

50 Budget-Friendly Family Road Trips the Whole Gang Will Love

Why fly when you can drive.

Pasadena to Big Bear

Pasadena to Big Bear: 88 miles

Pasadena, California

What to see/do : Los Angeles’s quirky, vintage cousin, Pasadena is only 10 miles from LA but a world away. Families should allot several hours for Kidspace, with educational exhibits, outdoor play areas, and a kids’ water basin and splash arroyo. There’s also the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, which includes the famed Japanese gardens, as well as a duck pond and art collections. Don’t miss Vroman’s, one of the world’s best independent bookstores with a gigantic (and well-stocked) children’s section full of books and amusements for all ages, and a tour of the life-sized space models at NASA’s JPL. And, of course, no trip to Pasadena is complete without a pilgrimage to the Rose Bowl.

Where to stay : Try the well-located Courtyard by Marriott Old Town in historic Old Pasadena, an easy walk from numerous shops and restaurants. Or, for a splurge, try the elegant Langham Huntington Pasadena, a gorgeous and surprisingly kid-friendly spot with an outdoor pool, tennis, and whimsical Imagine Tea for children.

Where to eat : Fun fact: the cheeseburger was invented in Pasadena. Stop by beloved fave Pie N Burger (in business since 1963) for classics the whole family will love—plus, yes, lots of pie. Or build your own burger at Slater’s 50/50. Another fave: the wildly creative (and hugely Instagrammable) sweet treats at Afters Ice Cream.

Big Bear, CA

What to see/do : A year-round vacation destination less than two hours from Los Angeles and three and a half hours from Las Vegas, Big Bear is known for its adventure-centric lake, rustic living, and fresh mountain air.

Where to stay : One of the great pleasures of staying in Big Bear is renting a cabin. BigBearCabins has more than 300 options available, while there’s also BigBear.com , or lakefront Lagonita Lodge , close to the village and with condo-style rooms, an indoor pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, family rec center, and picnic areas.

Where to eat : Popular spots for families include Saucy Mamas pizza joint, Oakside Restaurant, with live music and a kid-pleasing menu, and North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Co. for delicious fudge made onsite.

Tucson to Sedona to Albuquerque to Santa Fe

Tucson to Sedona: 229 miles

Sedona to Albuquerque: 350 miles

Albuquerque to Santa Fe: 64 miles

Tucson, Arizona

What to see/do : Take advantage of Tucson’s plentiful warmth and sunshine by hiking Saguro National Park: kid-friendly trails abound, and the sunsets are magical. Future aviators will thrill at Pima Air & Space Museum, or bring the family to see alligators, elephants, and African lions at the Reid Park Zoo. Visit the Arizona-Senora Desert Museum, with more than 15 areas for families, including a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden and natural history museum. And, of course, there’s Old Tuscon: a Wild-West attraction with live action shows, stunts, musicals and entertainment, all on the set of the 1939 film Arizona .

Where to stay : El Conquistador Tucson , provides a true resort-style experience—think desert views, Southwestern cuisine, five pools, a waterslide, splash pad and a hot tub—for a steal of a price. Or check out renovated motor lodge turned art hotel Hotel McCoy , which features a 10% off kindness rate: guests must complete one act of kindness before check-in on the day of stay.

Where to eat : Try the popular Sonoran Dog at El Guero Canelo : a bacon-wrapped, fluffy bolillo roll, topped with beans, onion, and a ton of condiments.

Sedona, Arizona

What to see/do : While, yes, stunning Sedona is a frequent romantic choice for couples, its bounty of outdoor activities are also fantastic for families. Hike Bell Rock Pathway, visit Out of Africa Wildlife Park for game drives and encounters with tigers, giraffes, lions and hyenas, or enjoy the natural slides at Slide Rock State Park. Kids will also enjoy the Sedona Trolley. Where to stay : Poco Diablo Resort offers a wide range of activities—everything from hiking, spa, tennis, road cruisers, a golf course, and of course a pool—plus it's owned by the Yavapai Nation. As an added bonus, it’s dog-friendly if Fido is along for the journey. Where to eat : Outlaw Grille is a family-favorite for burgers, sandwiches, and ribs, while Javelina Cantina offers fun Mexican with incredible views. The Cowboy Club is another Sedona standby popular with all-ages, including Country-Western décor and an extensive menu.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

What to see/do: See the Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum of Albuquerque, the aerial Sandia Peak Tramway for spectacular views more than 2 miles up, the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, and the can’t-miss Indian Pueblo Cultural Center for the fascinating history of the 19 Indian Pueblos of New Mexico. Albuquerque is also home to the world's largest hot air balloon festival, a spectacular way to see the desert.

Where to stay: Families won’t want to leave Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa , an affordable yet upscale resort with three heated pools, a water slide, five restaurants, a kids’ club, stables, golf, tennis, basketball, and bicycles.

Where to eat: Don't miss Green Jeans Farmery, a one-stop shop for various food options including pizza, ice cream, tacos, beers, juices, and BBQ.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

What to see/do : Santa Fe has a variety of kid-friendly museums families will love, including the Santa Fe Children’s Museum (with interactive exhibitions and a Planetarium), the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, and the Museum of International Folk Art. There’s also the Santa Fe Botanical Gardens, re-enactments of 19th century life in El Rancho de las Golondrinas, or a walk down Canyon Road to see the city’s famed art galleries.

Where to stay : Santa Fe’s only Native American-owned hotel, Hotel Santa Fe offers a traditional Native American feel, with affordable family-style suites, a spa, and outdoor pool.

Where to eat : Parents will love the 100 margarita options at Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen, while littles can enjoy a kid’s menu (with ice cream, obviously). Try (family-friendly) native New Mexican cuisine at Tia Sophia’s And no trip to Santa Fe is complete without a stop at Kakawa Chocolate House.

Gatlinburg to Franklin to Memphis

Gatlinburg to Franklin: 238 miles

Franklin to Memphis: 206 miles

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

What to see/do : The gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a rustic, family-friendly getaway full of must-dos like Anakeesta Family Adventure Park, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and the scenic Gatlinburg SkyLift Park chair lift.

Where to stay : Enjoy the Smokies in all their splendor by glamping at Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains , which includes comfy mattresses and linens, a wood burning-stove, kids menus, and activities like s’mores, horseback riding, and Jeep-safaris.

Where to eat : For grub, check out Crockett’s Breakfast Camp (serving since 1840), Pancake Pantry for breakfast, or try the Family Feast at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que or classic BBQ at Calhoun’s.

Franklin, Tennessee

What to see/do : A Civil War site located only 20 minutes outside Nashville, Franklin is well-worth exploring for its own bucolic charms. (It’s also home to some of country music’s biggest superstars.) If your children are old enough, take in tours of historic homes and museums Carnton, Carter House, and Lotz House, all commemorating the Battle of Franklin. Otherwise, check out the restored historic movie Franklin Theatre, the Nashville Zoo, and the SOAR Adventure Tower amusement center and obstacle course.

Where to stay : Stay at Hilton Garden Inn Nashville Brentwood , which is connected to the historic Mooreland Mansion and was used as a field hospital for both Union and Confederate troops during the Civil War.

Where to eat : Barbara's Home Cookin' is a popular spot for old time Southern classics.

Memphis, Tennessee

What to see/do : Must-visit Memphis attractions include Beale Street—famed as a blues mecca—Sun Studios (where Elvis got his start) as well as the Civil Rights Museum. Don't miss the daily Peabody Duck Walk at landmark Peabody Hotel Memphis, either. It's a free activity that'll delight the entire family. And, of course, every Memphis trip requires a pilgrimage to see the home of the King: Graceland.

Where to stay : Stay at Big Cypress Lodge , located within the massive Bass Pro Shops pyramid and a hit with families seeking a semi-rustic—yet still supremely comfortable—experience.

What to eat : Eat at The Cupboard, BBQ joint Central, or The Arcade Restaurant: Elvis himself was a fan.

Lenox to Burlington to Woodstock

Lenox to Burlington, 163 mile

Burlington to Woodstock, 89 mile

Lenox, Massachusetts

What to see/do : In the heart of the Berkshires, Lenox is all about outdoor activities in a stunning nature setting: think swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and biking. Ramblewild aerial park is a must, with ziplining, obstacle courses, and confidence boosting exercises, and horseback riding at Undermountain Farm is also popular. If your children can stand a bit of culture, Lenox is home to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Get lawn seats, pack a picnic, and make an evening of it.

Where to stay : Berkshire Mountain Lodge offers affordable one-bedroom condominiums with kitchens, living, and dining areas, located just outside of Lenox.

Where to eat : Betty’s Pizza Shack is a quirky crowd-pleaser while Frankie’s Italian Ristorante serves hearty classics destined to please the whole family. Stop by Chocolate Springs Café for Dessert.

Burlington, Vermont

What to see/do : Vermont’s largest city, waterfront Burlington is a liberal college-town that retains its small town feel. Take a stroll down car-free Church Street Marketplace, with shops, cafes, and open-air performers. Sound of Music fans might wish to make the pilgrimage to tour Trapp Family Lodge, 2,500 acres owned by the Von Trapp family. And, of course, no Vermont trip is complete without visiting the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour—including flavor tastings.

Where to stay : As the name suggests, Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain is on the water, with a convenient location walking distance from Church Street Marketplace. There’s also a heated indoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi, with free breakfast each morning.

Where to eat: Try La Boca Wood Fired Pizzeria, or Bluebird Barbecue. There’s also Dutch Mill Family Restaurant, in adjacent town Shelburne, a popular, down-home spot with a playground outside.

Woodstock, Vermont

What to see/do : Hike Mount Tom, swim in Silver Lake, and visit Billings Farm and Museum, with kid-friendly throwback demonstrations of rural life like sheep-shearing and butter-making.

Where to stay : Stay at riverfront The Shire Woodstock , with a wraparound porch, free parking and free wi-fi, and walking distance from town.

Where to eat : The Barnard General store and Mountain Creamery are both popular spots for sandwiches and ice cream or pie.

Bowling Green to Chattanooga to Helen

Bowling Green to Chattanooga: 195 miles

Chattanooga to Helen: 127 miles

Bowling Green, Kentucky

What to see/do : Located only an hour north of Nashville, Bowling Green is full of family-friendly activities. Jump into adventure with an underground river cruise or ziplining at Lost River Cave , or explore the longest underground cave system in the world at Mammoth Cave National Park. Other highlights include the National Corvette Museum, where Corvettes are produced, next to Motorsports Park.

Where to stay: Stay at affordable and centrally-located Hyatt Place Bowling Green with a pool, outdoor fire pit, complimentary breakfast bar, and free parking.

Where to eat: Try Hickory & Oak, with twists on Southern classics, or Rafferty's, with extensive offerings and a kids' menu.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

What to see/do : While in Chattanooga, a fast-growing city retaining its southern charm, the creative and educational playspace Children’s Discovery Museum and the Tennessee Aquarium are musts. Other highlights for the family: Take a ride on the historic Tennessee Valley Railroad (for younger kids, there’s a Thomas the Tank Engine experience), get up close with bobcats and red pandas at the Chattanooga Zoo, or ride the carousel and splash in the fountains at Coolidge Park. Make a day of natural wonder Rock City (technically located on the Georgia side of the border) in Lookout Mountain Park, with hiking, waterfalls, a fairy garden, and the chance to see seven different states (Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama) from Lover’s Leap.

Where to stay : Check into the riverfront SpringHill Suites , with spacious family accommodations including living rooms and kitchenettes, free hot breakfast buffet, an indoor pool, and a firepit.

Where to eat : Stop by Good Dog for gourmet—but still kid-pleasing—hot dogs with hand cut fries and an incredibly expansive list of toppings. Other great options: burgers, salads, or pizza at Big River Grille or Moe’s BBQ for platters, sides, and desserts that’ll please the entire family.

Helen, Georgia

What to see/do : A quaint Bavarian-style village 1.5 hours outside of Atlanta, Helen, Georgia—known as Little Bavaria—is an ideal getaway for family-friendly outdoor adventures. Check out the Georgia Mountain Coaster, Alpine Extreme Speed Go-Carts, or Haunted Helen, a fun factory full of actors that kids will love. Tubing down the Chattahoochee and panning for gold are popular, while Charlemagne's Kingdom, a German-themed model train exhibit with miniature villages & music, is a must.

Where to stay : Walking distance from most attractions, Country Inn and Suites by Radisson features a pool, free parking and free wi-fi, and free breakfast.

Where to eat : In Helen, German cuisine reigns. Try Mullers Famous Fried Cheese Cafe, Hofer’s of Helen, or Old Heidelberg German Restaurant & Pub. Kids will also love watching candies made (and tasting them, of course) at Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen.

Nadine Jolie Courtney is a lifestyle writer whose work has appeared in Town & Country , Robb Report , and Angeleno ; a graduate of Barnard College, her fourth book, All-American Muslim Girl , was named a Kirkus Best Book of 2019. She lives in Santa Monica, California, where she posts too many photos of her daughter on Instagram.

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31 Road Trips You Should Take If You're On A Budget

Get outta town.

BuzzFeed Junior Writer

1. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Why go? If you're already planning a road trip to the Grand Canyon, drive a little further to Page, Arizona, and check out the beautiful landscape of Horseshoe Bend.

Cost: No entry fee. Enjoy the sights for free!

2. Big Bear Lake, Southern California

Why go? Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh mountain air and gorgeous nature. If you go during the winter, you might even see snow.

Cost: No cost to visit, but lodging and activities can be found here if you're planning on staying all weekend.

3. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Why go? It's truly spectacular. And like Horseshoe Bend, it's relatively close to the Grand Canyon.

Cost: There's a $6 entry fee for entering Navajo land, and tours can run between $20–$40, depending on location and length.

4. Seven Magic Mountains, Nevada

Why go? It's a rad art installation to visit if you're looking to escape the city. Plus, it's only around for two years. Learn more about it here .

Cost: No entry fee. It's literally off the side of the road.

5. Cadillac Ranch, Texas

Why go? This is another public art installation that's right off Route 66. Where else are you going to see something like this in your lifetime? Learn more about it here .

Cost: Free!

6. Hanging Lake Trial, Colorado

Why go? The trail is about a mile, but it's steep. So if you're game for a workout after the drive there, you're in luck. And you'll be rewarded with some incredible views.

7. Blanca Lake, Washington

Why go? If you're ready for an intense day with nature, this spot might be for you. Once you get there, it's about a 12-mile round-trip hike. But if you're game, it's SO worth it for the absolutely stunning views.

8. Rialto Beach, Washington

Why go? It's a beautiful place to enjoy the sunset and tide pools. Plus you're allowed to start a bonfire in the fire rings, so bring on the cookouts.

9. Abiqua Falls, Oregon

Why go? This trail is a bit tricky to find, but the views and gorgeous falls are truly stunning. Find more information here !

10. Jenny Lake, Wyoming

Why go? Enjoy fresh air and spectacular views on this fairly easy hike. Fair warning: The area is currently undergoing a renewal project, so access could be tricky throughout 2017. Read more here .

Cost: Access to the national park is $30 per vehicle.

11. Highline Trial, Montana

Why go? If the adventurer in you is looking for a scenic hike off the beaten path, this is the day trip for you. Be sure to start early, though. It's roughly a 12-mile journey, but well worth it.

12. Upper Mesa Falls, Idaho

Why go? If you're en route to Yellowstone , this might be on your way, and it's definitely worth a stop. The entire journey is scenic and the falls are beautiful.

13. Tioga Pass, Northern California

Why go? This pass way is en route to Yosemite, so it's great if you're on your way and still great even if you're not. There are so many amazing sights to see and many photo-op moments along the way.

14. Oval Beach, Michigan

Why go? Stay for the fantastic sunsets, but go for a little escape from the real world.

Cost: Off-season it's free. Otherwise, you may have to pay a small fee to enter.

15. Cave Point County Park, Wisconsin

Why go? It's a beautiful location for a picnic once you arrive, but be careful of steep drop-offs.

16. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin

Why go? Yes, this is an island — but don't let that stop you from road tripping. There are easy transportation options to the island. The caves are breathtaking, and if you love being active then it's a perfect place to kayak.

Cost: Transportation fee to the island, unless you kayak and boat there on your own.

17. Nashville, Indiana

Why go? It's a historic, artsy, small town that will make you feel like you've stepped into an episode of Gilmore Girls .

18. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Why go? Waterfalls, peaceful nature walks, hikes — a great road-trip destination for any nature lover.

Cost: No entry fee — it's free!

19. Rock City, Tennessee

Why go? Totally worth the trip for some truly enchanting views and incredible trailway paths.

Cost: Entry starts at $20 .

20. Lake Acworth, Georgia

Why go? It's an excellent pit stop on any road trip, but an even better place to gather for a BBQ.

21. Lake Heartwell State Park, South Carolina

Why go? It's a great place to take a break along the 85 — and even take a dip if the weather is permitting. If you're into fishing, you're welcome to here.

22. Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee

Why go? For the breathtaking scenery, gorgeous falls, and pleasant picnic areas.

23. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Why go? This long stretch is known as "America's Favorite Drive" and is incredibly scenic. There are also paths you can take if you're feeling antsy and want to get out of your car.

24. Lula Falls, Georgia

Why go? Because the waterfall is epic, and there are some excellent hiking trails. Note: This is only open the first and last weekends of the month.

25. York, Maine

Why go? This is a charming little beach town with spectacular coastal views. Plus, you can see the Nubble Lighthouse, which is the most photographed lighthouse in America.

26. Fletcher, Vermont

Why go? This is a quaint, beautiful town with acres of scenic countryside. It's truly magnificent in the fall and winter.

27. East Matunuck State Beach, Rhode Island

Why go? It's a serene, clean place to enjoy a day at the beach with family or friends.

Cost: $20 for parking.

28. Bushkill Falls, Pennsylvania

Why go? It's not a difficult hike to see the gorgeous falls, and the views are well worth it.

Cost: Entry starts at $14 .

29. Ice Castles, New Hampshire

Why go? Sure this may be somewhat touristy, but the castles are spectacular both day AND night.

Cost: Entry starts at $12.

30. Bigelow State Park, Connecticut

Why go? Breathtaking trails, areas to have a cookout, and gorgeous views of the water. A great place to enjoy nature no matter the season.

Cost: Seasonal and weekend parking fees, but free entry during the week.

31. Mount Tammy, New Jersey

Why go? While this isn't a long hike, it is a bit steep — but the gorgeous elevated views are well worth it.

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The ultimate guide to budget-friendly road trips

Easy ways to lessen the financial burden of traveling and still have a fun and memorable trip

By Amanda Adler

With inflation forcing the cost of gas, food, and entertainment skyward, travelers looking to hit the road may feel overwhelmed trying to stay on budget. But whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or an extended family vacation, you can find low-cost fun no matter where you venture. 

Follow these tips to help you get the most bang for your buck.

Economical accommodations

It’s easy for nightly hotel rates to get out of hand. Rather than choosing a big city hotel, consider one of these money-saving options.

Get comfy camping

Camping can be a great way to save money and truly connect with the place you’re visiting. Car camping is an economical choice that requires very little gear. Pop the hatch of your station wagon or SUV, set up a sleeping bag, and enjoy nights of peaceful relaxation under the stars. It’s an ideal option for solo travelers or couples.

For those looking for a little extra sleeping space, consider investing in a tent. While there’s a wide range of options, you don’t need to break the bank to find something comfortable enough for a twosome to enjoy.

Families traveling with children don’t necessarily need a large RV with all the bells and whistles to get out on the road. A small pop-up camper is a great solution that can be easily pulled by most vehicles and folds down for garage storage.

When it comes to selecting where to stay, options range from free off-grid camping on public lands, to state and national parks, to full-service campgrounds. To make the most of your budget, consider alternating between free and paid sites to save whenever possible.

Insider Tip: If you’ve never camped and want to give it a try before investing in gear, try booking a glamping stay. Many campgrounds, such as KOA resorts, offer cabins and other accommodations for rent, and many have robust amenities, such as pools, playgrounds, on-site activities, nightly campfires, and more. 

Related How to create your own budget-friendly glamping experience

Make it a family affair

Interested in planning a trip to visit family or friends? Couch surfing at a loved one’s house can save you big bucks and helps bring you closer (literally and figuratively) to those you hold most dear. Experience your host’s city through their eyes as you let them play tour guide and show off their favorite haunts.

If you like the idea of visiting with friends and family but have your heart set on another vacation locale, invite the whole gang to join you on the road. Pool your resources to travel together, booking larger suites or multi-family cottages that are less expensive when the cost is split between several parties.

Related The ultimate guide to family road trips

Seek out unique lodging

If you still want all the luxury of staying in a swanky hotel, think outside the box and look for accommodations with unique features to keep your budget in check.

Fans of the TV show Schitt’s Creek fell in love with the small-town antics that took place at the Rosebud Motel. But just as the Rose family worked to bring the well-loved motel up to modern standards, many motels across the nation have recently received a similar glow-up. Retro-chic offerings in cities such as Santa Barbara, Savannah, and beyond offer a trendy place to stay and often boast a relatively budget-friendly price tag compared to hotel options in these sought-after destinations.

Related Welcome to Sharon Springs, a real life Schitt’s Creek in upstate New York

Or, why not make the hotel the main attraction? Booking a stay somewhere with an on-site water park, live shows, or kids club may mean you’re paying a pricier fee up front, but a staycation at this type of resort means you won’t have to pony up even more cash for outside entertainment. 

Frugal food

Eating cheap on the road doesn’t have to mean gas station hot dogs and fast-food dollar menu picks. Be kind to your stomach and your wallet with these tips for eating well on a budget.

Pack a picnic 

Stock a cooler with snacks and drinks, which you can replenish throughout your travels. Include sandwiches, fruits, and healthy fare, or get fancy with a charcuterie board and grown-up beverages to enjoy as you watch the sunset. Seek out scenic spots to enjoy a quiet picnic, such as mountain overlooks, national park pavilions, or lush city parks.

Pick your own produce 

An amazing and inexpensive activity to enjoy is picking fruit. Many blueberry, cherry, apple, and other orchards offer the chance to pluck product straight off the vine, often at a fraction of the price you’d pay in the store. Roadside produce stands and local farmer’s markets also offer the opportunity to get a taste of a region and support local growers.

Eat with locals 

Rather than heading for trendy restaurants or dining on upscale fare, ask locals for suggestions. Some of the best and most authentic eats can be found in dive bars and hidden hole-in-the-wall diners. 

Budget boredom busters

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you can quickly go broke on entertainment expenses. But you don’t have to spend a lot to have a great getaway.

Fee-free activities

There are plenty of ways to have free fun in almost any destination. Here are a few ideas:

• Enjoy hours of fun at local parks and playgrounds.
• Hit the trails for scenic hikes to waterfalls, rock formations, and other natural wonders.
• Savor historic architecture in charming destinations like New Orleans, Louisiana; Charleston, South Carolina; and San Antonio, Texas.
• Stroll among statues, decorative fountains, and iconic landmarks.
• Hit the beach for days of play or much-needed relaxation.
• Take in public art displays in Brooklyn, New York; Miami, Florida; or another hip metropolis.
• Travel during holidays to enjoy small-town Independence Day parades or charming seasonal decor in quaint downtowns.
• Bring bikes, skateboards, fishing gear, card games, and other activities that you can enjoy once at your destinations.
• Break for roadside attractions along your way, snapping photos with the world’s largest pistachio or larger-than-life dinosaur dioramas.

Insider Tip: Do you have a 4th grader in your family? If so, you’re eligible for a free national park pass .

Related Everything you need to know to plan a national park road trip

Cheap thrills

When it comes time to break out your wallet, think about how to make the most of your spending cash.

• Skip Broadway and take in a community theater performance instead.
• Enjoy a night out at the minor league baseball park or snag tickets for a minor league hockey game to cheer on up-and-coming players.
• Buy tickets online in advance to save money, and don’t be afraid to look for coupons or ask the local visitor center about discounted attractions.
• Savor the simplicity of an open-air drive-in movie theater and pack your own popcorn and candy.

More tips for saving money on a road trip

When finding ways to pinch pennies on the road, here are a few additional questions to keep in mind.

What can I get for free?

Curb expenses by seeking out included freebies. Look for hotels that offer complimentary breakfast or a nighttime reception with drinks. Pass on pricey souvenirs and instead get creative with your keepsakes. Turn cardboard bar coasters or stickers from local establishments into a fun scrapbook, while your kids can take part in free Junior Ranger programs to collect commemorative badges.

How else can I sleep cheap on a road trip?

The general rule for booking accommodations is to either book very early or seek out last-minute deals. Price check lodging in multiple destinations to find the best deal and don’t be afraid to book a room farther outside the city to save even more (including on parking fees, which are generally higher in the city center). 

Many campgrounds, hotels, credit cards, and third-party booking sites will also reward you for your loyalty. Stock up on points by joining various rewards programs to earn deals on future stays. 

How much will my road trip cost?

Many factors determine how much you’re going to spend, but a few tips for stretching your budget include:

• Stay longer at each destination versus hopping from place to place to lock in the best lodging prices.
• Consider destinations close to home to maximize your vacation time and cut down on fuel expenditures.
• Travel during off-peak times and shoulder seasons. Even if you’re restricted when you can travel, you can always visit a summertime hotspot in winter or find a long weekend to enjoy a short getaway to a pricier locale.
• Make sure you’re being realistic about costs. As with any trip, there will be some costs that you can control and others you can’t, so do your best to budget for controlled expenses like gas, meals, admission prices, and nightly rates.

Meet the Author

Amanda Adler

Amanda Adler is a writer who splits her time between traveling the U.S. in her RV and soaking up the air conditioning in her home in Orlando, Florida. While on the road she seeks out national parks, theme parks, kid- and dog-friendly hiking trails, and local businesses that tout their wares as being “craft,” “artisanal” or “bespoke.”

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A travel blog exploring America one city at a time

How to Plan a Cross-Country Road Trip for Families on a Budget- 9000+ Miles

Big Cities Midwest Roadside Attractions South West

Share the post "How to Plan a Cross-Country Road Trip for Families on a Budget- 9000+ Miles"

Below are my best tips on how to plan a cross-country road trip for families on a budget !

My family is no stranger to long road trips. Our average family road trip is typically 1000-4000 miles in about 1-2 weeks of time. In fact in just 10 years I’ve put on over 150,000 miles on our mini van! But I had a difficult time finding resources for families in a mini van traveling a great distance, let’s say, 7000 miles!

Frugal budget, no RV or fancy hotels – just straight up wanting to see the world and make incredible memories without being overly extravagant. Our family of 5 typically spends under $1000 per week on the road including everything – lodging, food, gas, souvenirs, attractions, etc.

I recommend using a Google Sheet or Excel sheet to help you micromanage down your details! That way you can work on it via mobile or computer and on the road! You can Add your Itinerary, Budget, Packing List, etc. to different tabs and continue to update them as you go through the process of planning!

To help you get started you can also use our printable packing list here . And here are my personal “staples” for road trip travel .

Deciding a Road Trip Route – What do you want to see?:

Getting Started:

The first thing you need to do is decide where you want to go. My husband and I got engaged and married on Route 66, so traveling Route 66 was a big part of our initial desire for this road trip. Eventually it lengthened into a monstrosity of amazing adventures!

When I looked at how little we would be spending on attractions along the way, and how close we were to California (coming from Chicago), I added on to the route. Once your generic route is established, then look to see if you will be near any MUST SEE stops and alter the route a bit.

This is not a one day process – just so you know! It takes a LONG time to nail down a trip like this! We’ve been talking about it for 6 years but really sat down the past 6 months to establish the details. You can see above that I veer off of Route 66 for a little while to hit some awesome locations! Below is our basic route overview:

Our 7000 Miles Road Trip Route Itinerary:

Day 1-3: Leaving Chicago on Route 66 to get to Roswell, NM Day 4: Carlsbad Caverns & Bat Flight Program Day 5: White Sands National Monument Day 6-12: Exploring the Grand Canyon Day 13: Hoover Dam & Las Vegas & Area51 Day 14: Santa Monica Pier & La Brea Tar Pits Day 15: Disneyland  Day 16: Universal Studios  Day 17: Big Sur Day 18: Winchester Mystery House & Alcatraz Day 19: California Academy of Sciences Day 20: Muir Woods Day 21-22: Exploring the Redwoods Day 23-27: Exploring the Oregon Coast Day 28: Mount St. Helens & Ape Caves Day 29-30: Portland Day 31: Bonneville Salt Flats Day 32 : Floating in the Great Salt Lake Day 33: Digging for trilobites Day 34-35: Arches National Park, Canyonlands & Dead Horse State Park Day 36-38: Exploring Colorado ghost towns & dinosaur trails Day 39-41: Headed home!

Deciding How Long to Be Gone – What time do you have?

This is a big deal! How long do you have to be gone for your trip? Do you get 1 week of vacation? Are you and the kids off for the whole summer? Sometimes it doesn’t matter how much you want to see or what your budget is – vacation time is the ultimate deciding factor for your route !

Align your hopeful route with how long you have to be gone – and then adjust from there what you need. Have time to add more destinations on to your route or want to stay longer in one spot? Or do you sadly realize you just can’t fit 7000 miles in one week!

Deciding how long you can afford to be gone along with your desired route is your two biggest factors in planning for your cross country road trip with your family! This is where realism sets in and your real plans start getting laid in stone.

Deciding on Your Budget – How much can you afford?:

The third most important factor is your budget. NO – I did not list this first and for a reason! You can stretch even the smallest budget quite a long ways if you’re willing to have a matching travel style. Also, your budget doesn’t actually help you decide where to go! Just how much you can afford once you get there!

Our initial budget for our 41 day road trip with 5 people was only $4500. That included gas, lodging, attractions, souvenirs, food – the whole package! But it definitely is not a Hilton luxury vacation! (We’ve since slightly altered it to include 2 days of theme parks – which was a hard decision because that alone will cost almost half the original budget!)

Factors to Keep in Mind When Budgeting a Cross Country Road Trip:

Attractions, camping supplies, vehicle maintenance, state / national park entrance fees, unexpected costs.

Different people have different methods of saving for a road trip. Over the years we have tried a little bit of everything. But for now we use a separate savings account and use travel funds as our holiday and birthday wish list items!

Travel Savings Ideas:

• Saved $20 / month based on this travel plan
• Cash Envelopes
• Open a separate savings account
• Pre-purchase gift cards
• Ask for road trip money / gift cards during holidays & birthdays
• Tax return refunds to travel savings

Deciding on Your Attractions – What do you HAVE to see?

This is where the Google Sheets spreadsheet comes in handy! I use Roadtrippers.com to search our route and find attractions, then make a list of everything that is interesting to see. We sit down as a family and then decide what attractions we absolutely HAVE to see, what would be nice to see, and what we could probably live without seeing.

I always ask each of the kids what the 1-2 things are that they would be heartbroken if they didn’t see, then try to make sure we include that! For this trip, the answers were the Hollywood sign and Roswell!

From this we then overlay these on our expected route and time frame for how long we can be gone. The “MUST SEE” items go on first and stay on, everything else we wiggle into the itinerary and estimate how long it will take for each attraction.

Lastly, I add up the cost of each of these attractions and see how they align with our budget. If one cost FAR too much, let’s say Disneyland, then that goes on the maybe list until I see how it aligns with our budget.

How to Plan for the Unexpected – Protecting Your Budget:

There is always something unexpected that pops up in a long road trip – or even a short one! We’ve done weekend only trips that turned out to be wild disasters! If you’re planning a cross country road trip you absolutely need to plan for emergencies in your budget! Generally I add $200 PER week onto my savings plan to help offset any unexpected problems.

You don’t want to come back home and be stressed because you spent too much! Some things you truly can’t plan for, but you can leave a little wiggle room to help offset the damage. Thankfully most of our journeys have gone smoothly, but we have had flat tires, keys locked in cars, dead car batteries, and even arrived at LOCKED campgrounds only to need to find a hotel for the night. All unexpected additional costs.

Unexpected Expenses that Might Happen on a Family Road Trip:

• Car Repairs / Flat Tire / Car Accident / Towing Expenses
• Hospital / Medical Expenses
• Illness and/or First Aid Expenses
• Extra Attractions
• Splurges (dessert, extra souvenirs, etc.)
• Camera batteries / Memory Cards
• Broken Luggage / Broken Camping Gear
• Broken Stroller or other Baby Items
• Unexpected Itinerary Changes

Being Out of Town = LESS Bills at Home!

One important thing to remember is that (typically), when you aren’t home, your bills are less! Your food bills, your utilities, your entertainment, etc. Obviously this doesn’t count if you’re paying for pet care. But generally, your regular monthly bills will be a little bit less at home when you are on the road – which you have already budgeted for!

I use this factor as my “emergency overflow” for funds in case something goes haywire during our road trip. It’s a little cushion to fall back on most of the time.

Video Chat on How to Plan Snacks on the Road Trip:

About Crystal

I'm the product of a family who never travelled and now I can't get enough! Please leave a comment or send me a message with some of your favorite lesser known places to visit - my bucket list in the USA is always expanding! My passion for travel motivated me to drag along my husband and 3 kids until now they are as eager as I am to hit the road! What should we visit near you?

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April 15, 2020 at 3:51 am

Thank you for this article. Exactly what I needed to get started!

April 19, 2022 at 10:07 pm

Can you please advise regarding your “lodging”. We are also a family of 5, taking a 31-day cross-country road trip and our lodging is already at $4500 alone.

April 19, 2022 at 10:18 pm

Lodging can add up fast! Since we were on a super tight budget we chose to tent camp MOST of our trip. This cut down on costs tremendously! This also allowed us to do all of our own cooking to save money. We spent most of our nights at state parks although we did find an occasional private campground or KOA that was inexpensive.

Our nightly lodging ranged from $15-25 in most areas but extremely popular tourist destinations we averaged higher to $40-60/night. About once every 1-2 weeks we also had pre-saved credit card reward points to spend a night in a hotel for free. But I’d say out of our 2 months gone we had maybe 6 nights of free hotel stays – everything else was tent camping!

January 6, 2023 at 3:43 am

is there a link for the exact route you chose to take? I’ll be traveling from upstate NY, but I love the entire route you took out to California and back!

July 22, 2023 at 3:20 pm

Wow. 7000 miles and a ton of destinations. Lots of good ideas. Thanks! Robert Smiler has a new song to be released on August 6, 2023 called, Summer Drive. Check out the Summer Drive song and video at Robert Smiler Fun Melodies! Warm Summer Regards!

August 2, 2023 at 12:21 pm

Amazing! My family also enjoys long road trips. We embark on a 4000- to 5000-mile road adventure annually, spanning approximately one month to complete, with a slightly larger budget, making it incredibly enjoyable.

November 9, 2023 at 6:05 pm

That sounds incredible! It has gotten harder as the kids have gotten older – that’s for sure!

March 22, 2024 at 2:53 am

“Wow, this article really got me excited to plan my next road trip! The diversity of landscapes and destinations mentioned here is truly inspiring. I’ve been to a few of these places, but there are definitely some hidden gems I can’t wait to explore. Thanks for putting together such a comprehensive guide with helpful tips and recommendations. Can’t wait to hit the road and create some unforgettable memories!”

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35 Ultimate Family Road Trip Ideas That Everyone Will Enjoy

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Coastal California: BIG SUR

The Route: Big Sur, CA to Point Reyes, CA (188 miles) to Eureka, CA (261 miles)

What to do: "Stop at Big Sur Bakery for coffee cake, cinnamon twists, and picnic goodies before hitting Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. When you get there, take the McWay Falls Overlook Trail to the waterfall, which plunges 80 feet into the Pacific." — Nancy Brown, 50

Where to stay: At Treebones Resort , perched on the coast, guests sleep in yurts — circular tent-like structures with pine floors. Only kids over six are allowed, so if yours are younger, head to Deetjen's Big Sur Inn .

Where to eat: The iconic Nepenthe restaurant has communal tables overlooking the ocean. You'll get drunk on the views, not just the pinot.

Coastal California: POINT REYES, CA

What to do: "Check out Dillon Beach, a popular surf spot. The undercurrent is strong, so little ones should stay on the sand, which has giant dunes my kids love rolling down." —Amie O'Shaughnessy, 42

Where to stay: The Inverness Valley Inn has a pool, a tennis court, croquet, and a mini farm.

Where to eat: Nick's Cove on Tomales Bay is a quirky nautical-themed spot serving local seafood (order oysters!). There's a bait shop nearby, a huge deck, and bay views from every table.

Coastal California: EUREKA, CA

What to do: "Stop for ice cream at Bon Boniere, then head to the Sequoia Park Zoo, where the animal habitats mesh seamlessly with the redwoods, or see the harbor from a Humboldt Bay Harbor Cruise." —Amy Whitley, 34

Where to stay: Every room at the Victorian Village Inn in nearby Ferndale drips with unique charm.

Where to eat: The Samoa Cookhouse , opened in 1893, is like hopping in a time machine. Food is served family-style, and kids can veer off to visit the logging museum.

The Great Smokies: BRYSON CITY, NC

The route: Bryson City, NC to Gatlinburg, TN (44 miles) to Pigeon Forge, TN (10 miles).

What to do: Start in Nantahala Outdoor Park, where the whole family can enjoy whitewater rafting. Once you've dried off, drive a few miles to Bryson City, home to the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Where to stay: Stay in a cozy private family cabin at Nantahala Village . Some of the cabins even offer hot tubs and fireplaces.

Where to eat: Fill up on a hearty breakfast at the Everett Street Diner . Don't forget an extra order of biscuits — they're one of the diner's most popular items, and for good reason.

The Great Smokies: CADES COVE

What to do: Cades Cove offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can also wander through the remnants of a 19th-century settlement.

Where to stay: The Sidney James Mountain Lodge in nearby Gatlinburg has a swimming pool with a rock formation around it that will keep the kids entertained.

Where to eat: Load up on BBQ and listen to live music at Three Jimmy's Restaurant .

The Great Smokies: PIGEON FORGE

What to do: If you've had your fill of wilderness adventure, head to Pigeon Forge, which is full of glittering lights and novelty restaurants. And, of course, it's home to Dollywood , the Dolly Parton-owned theme park.

Where to stay: Stay close to the action at the Dollywood Resort , which offers plenty of activities for the kids (and a spa for Mom and Dad).

Where to eat: Enjoy a side of laugh-out-loud entertainment with your southern feast at the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show .

National Park Paradise: JACKSON HOLE, WY

The Route: Jackson Hole, WY to Big Sky, MT (182 miles) to Whitefish, MT (344 miles)

What to do: "Take the scenic Moose-Wilson Road to Grand Teton National Park and look out for moose, bald eagles, and bears. Afterward, drive to Town Square to see a shoot out inspired by a legendary cowboy battle between the Cache Creek Posse and local villain Clover Sturlin (a.k.a. Clover the Killer)." —Katie Payne Confer, 37

Where to stay: Snake River Lodge & Spa has a new bike park and nearby mountain-bike rentals. They'll also organize alpine sliding and mini-golf excursions.

Where to eat: Head to Dornan's and eat your BBQ chicken or steak inside a 30-foot teepee. Or check out the Bar T 5 Covered Wagon Cookout , where horse-drawn wagons take you to outdoor tables where you can watch a country-western music show.

National Park Paradise: BIG SKY, MT

What to do: "Visit Geyser Whitewater in Yellowstone National Park for a guided raft trip down the Gallatin River — like the Obamas did! Then reel in brook trout at smaller creeks nearby." —Liz McRae, 35

Where to stay: Children 10 and under stay free at Whitewater Inn . It's a steal for the area!

Where to eat: The Hungry Moose Market & Deli is a local institution. Grab sandwiches, salads, and wine for a picnic in the park.

National Park Paradise: WHITEFISH, MT

What to do: "Hike the North Boundary Trail and then bike the Whitefish Trail, which goes straight through town, so you can stop for a bite at the Wrap & Roll Cafe. Kids love the quesadillas." —Traci Stolte, 37

Where to stay: The Pine Lodge is set right on the Whitefish River.

Where to eat: At McGarry's Roadhouse , order specialties like bison meatloaf and elk chili, or feast on fresh fish.

Cowboy Country: DALLAS, TX

The Route: Dallas, TX to Oklahoma City, OK (208 miles) to Kansas City, MO (351 miles)

What to do: "One of the best-kept secrets here is Dallas Heritage Village. It's filled with 19th-century pioneer and Victorian buildings, and there's a working Civil War-era farm with people dressed in actual hoopskirts and bonnets." —Erika Moss, 22

Where to stay: The Magnolia Dallas has a nightly milk-and-cookies buffet. Need we say more?

Where to eat: Wild About Harry's serves specialty hot dogs and more than 50 flavors of frozen custard alongside salads, Frito pies, and more.

Cowboy Country: OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

What to do: "Visit the dinosaur exhibits at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History in Norman. We love the 'dino-vator,' which takes you 26 feet in the air so you can look the Apatosaurus in the eye. Stop in the historic Stockyards City district for the horse shows and cowboy-boot shops." —Danielle Barber, 36

Where to stay: The Hampton Inn & Suites Oklahoma City Bricktown is located in the heart of Bricktown, the city's entertainment district. Request a room that overlooks the RedHawks' baseball stadium, AT&T Bricktown Ballpark, so you can watch a game without leaving your hotel.

Where to eat: For huge portions, low prices, and lip-smacking fried dishes (like delicious peaches or okra), head to Ann's Chicken Fry House .

Cowboy Country: KANSAS CITY, MO

What to do: "Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead brings to life a turn-of-the-century Kansas farm, with animals, pony rides, fishing, and lots of room to roam and play. And don't miss the Kansas City Zoo: Kids go nuts seeing the kangaroos up close, and there's a little train, an African safari, and camel rides. It's huge, so plan to be there all afternoon." —Deb Clem-Buckert, 43

Where to stay: Slip, slide, and sleep at the Coco Key Water Resort .

Where to eat: Animatronic dinosaurs come to life at the T-Rex Café , where kids can build a stuffed stegosaurus or dig for fossils while waiting for their Prehistoric Pop'n Shrimp.

Great Lakes Getaway: CHICAGO, IL

The Route: Chicago, IL to Holland, MI (151 miles) to Traverse City, MI (174 miles)

What to do: "Go to Millennium Park and take a photo of your family's reflection on Cloud Gate, the giant, bean-shaped Anish Kapoor sculpture. Then get a view of the city from the Navy Pier's 150-foot Ferris wheel (but avoid weekends, when there's a long line). If it's rainy, head to the Museum of Science and Industry; it has a coal mine and a fairy castle!" —Emily Hotz, 30

Where to stay: The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago Magnificent Mile has a pool, and cookies at check-in.

Where to eat: Carhops deliver burgers, shakes, and fries right to your window at Superdawg Drive-In . For famous deep-dish pizza, look no further than Lou Malnati's , a Chicago fixture for 40 years.

Great Lakes Getaway: HOLLAND, MI

What to do: "Relax on the pier on Lake Michigan in Holland State Park; it has a view of the Big Red Lighthouse. On Fridays, go to Kollen Park for free concerts. Drive downtown to the Splash Zone, a small water park. While you're there, stop at the Holland Peanut Store for a Nutty Paddle Pop ice cream bar." —Melanie Scholten Vanderkolk, 43

Where to stay: The camp-like Lake Ranch Resort is a short stroll to Lake Michigan and has fun extras like a volleyball court and a pool.

Where to eat: Grab the famous perch sandwiches at the waterfront Ottawa Beach Inn . Then order a Tommy Turtle Sundae at Captain Sundae .

Great Lakes Getaway: TRAVERSE CITY, MI

What to do: "Pick cherries at Rennie Orchards in nearby Elk Rapids or at Friske Orchards, which has adorable goats kids love to feed. Hike or bike the trails at Sand Lakes in Williamsburg, and stop for a picnic by one of the five lakes." —Kory Felker, 34

Where to stay: The beach is a big draw, so check in to the Cherry Tree Inn & Suites by the shore.

Where to eat: Sleder's Family Tavern , which was built by millworkers in 1882, feels like a hunting lodge. The bartender rings a bell every time the tavern's stuffed moose, Randolph, receives a kiss — so tell the kids to pucker up!

Southern Delights: NASHVILLE, TN

The Route: Nashville, TN to Atlanta, GA (248 miles) to Charleston, SC (318 miles)

What to do: "At the Cheekwood Botanical Garden, kids can roam lush paths straight out of a storybook. The enormous Warner Park has a Nature Center packed with games and two trails blazed just for little guys. Downtown, the Frist Center for the Visual Arts includes a fantastic children's gallery, with 30 hands-on activities." —Lindsay Ferrier, 36

Where to stay: Hotel Preston offers easy access to downtown and the Briley Parkway; take it straight to the Grand Ole Opry and the General Jackson showboat. Nashville Shores (a water park in town) and J. Percy Priest Lake (rent a boat!) are also nearby.

Where to eat: The famous Loveless Café serves up melt-in-your-mouth biscuits and gravy and other Southern classics in a country-kitchen-like setting. Kids can watch the cooks through a window.

Southern Delights: ATLANTA, GA

What to do: "Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the world, so don't miss it! Go on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid crowds, and buy tickets in advance online. The brand-new Dolphin Tales, a 25-minute show, includes actors in elaborate costumes, a team of dolphins, and an orchestra. After getting your feet wet, stop at the Atlanta Botanical Garden and stroll through the treetops on the Kendeda Canopy Walk. Afterward, cool off in the Sunflower Fountain at the entrance of the Children's Garden." —Amy Querido, 37

Where to stay: Ask for a high floor at the largest hotel in the Western hemisphere, the 73-floor, 1,068-room Westin Peachtree Plaza .

Where to eat: The Varsity is billed as the world's largest drive-in restaurant, frying up chili cheese dogs, onion rings, and peach pies in a straight-out-of-the-'50s setting.

Southern Delights: CHARLESTON, SC

What to do: "The Callinectes , a 40-person covered pontoon boat, sails from Isle of Palms Marina to Capers Island, one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands. Cruise through winding tidal creeks and spot dolphins, pelicans, and more. Then collect shells on Capers' pristine Boneyard Beach." —Sarah Young, 35

Where to stay: The kid-friendly Courtyard Charleston Waterfront has stellar views of the Ashley River and its many docked boats, as well as an outdoor pool that's perfect for a morning swim.

Where to eat: Hunker down for fried fresh seafood with all the fixings (hominy squares, slaw, key lime pie) at The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene . If there's a wait, stay busy watching the shrimp boats at the pier.

Mid-Atlantic Adventure: WASHINGTON, DC

The Route: Washington, DC to Williamsburg, VA (152 miles) to Assateague Island, MD (179 miles)

What to do: "A DC must-see is the National Museum of Natural History, where kids can check out an enormous prehistoric white shark and the Hope Diamond. Splash out a few bucks at the Spy Museum and they can do a "mission" that starts in a secret room and runs them all over. Another must-do: Rent a paddleboat and see the monuments from the Tidal Basin." —Giin Levy, 36

Where to stay: The funky Hotel Helix offers mini animal-print robes for kids.

Where to eat: At the Italian spot Dino in Cleveland Park, kids up to 11 pay their age to eat. Or try Ethiopic , where eating with your hands is mandatory!

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6 Tips for Family Road Trips on a Budget

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: August 2, 2017

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Red Roof sponsored this post but all opinions expressed are my own.

We take airplanes on a lot of our family vacations. We realized a few years ago, however, that we were missing out on a lot of America by flying over it. Road trips have increasingly become a bigger part of our travels, particularly now that we are a family of four. Four plane ticket purchases (even with all my frequent flyer miles) really add up.

One of California’s most beautiful road trip destinations, the Avenue of the Giants.

One of the joys of a road trip is that it is possible to do and see a lot of amazing things on a pretty tight vacation budget . We need to save money for plane tickets when we have farther-flung travel plans, so we road trip with money-saving in mind. Here are some of my family’s tops tips for budget road trips.

Top Budget Road Trip Tips

1. get the car ready.

Winter road trips require extra preparation.

A budget-friendly road trip always starts with the car. Make sure it is road-worthy and in good repair so you are not surprised with a pricey breakdown in a place where you can’t shop around for a good mechanic. Make sure the tires are inflated properly for the best gas mileage. Fill up the car at a gas station near home where you can get a good price before your trip. If you have more than one car in the family that is road-trip worthy, pick the right one for your trip too. That may be the car that gets better gas mileage or has lower operating and maintenance costs.

2. Rent a car

One of our favorite road trips where we could drive our car through a redwood!

If a road trip promises to put too many miles on your much-needed aging family car, renting a car for a big road trip may well save you money in the long run. Sometimes a rental car can even save you money in unexpected ways. For example, we recently rented a car for a short day trip with my mother-in-law because we didn’t have a car with enough space to fit a fifth person. We soon realized how much we saved in parking fees and additional gas costs by all piling into one car instead of road tripping in two separate ones.

3. Stock up with plenty of food & drinks

Long drives inevitably turn kids into bottomless food pits. Load up the car with plenty of snacks and drinks. Buy in bulk and stash the snacks strategically in the car so that kids can get to them when they are hungry (but not overindulge). We usually pack a cooler in the car as well, which can be refilled at hotel ice machines to keep items cold for several days straight.

4. Have a plan for hotel stays along your route

Families plan their hotel stays very differently. Some map out hotels far in advance. Some see how far they can drive in a given day and crash at the first available option when they can drive no more. Whatever you do, it’s important to have a plan to make sure you can get a room at the right price. (And if you are brave enough to try your hand at camping, check out these car camping tips !)

Road trippin’ Red Roof style!

I recently had the chance to test out a feature from Red Roof on their newly-redesigned website that helps either kind of family. This feature “Along-a-Route” allow travelers to input their starting point and final destination and find hotels along the way. So whether you a looking for a last minute place to stay while actually on the road or planning months in advance, all the options are visible and can be booked with a simple “Tap! Tap! Go!” The site also provides geo-localized and personalized content and deals and a full display of TripAdvisor reviews so travelers to select the property and room that best fit their family’s needs.

5. Take advantage of fun & cheap roadside attractions

America’s highways and byways are filled with wacky roadside attractions , most of which are just the right fit for kids. More importantly for budget travelers, many of them are inexpensive or even free. Our family always makes an effort to plan our road trips by some of America’s roadside gems. From the Cabazon Dinosaurs outside Palm Springs, California to South of the Border, the ultimate truck stop and tourist trap in South Carolina, family road trippers can find something worthy of a stop just about anywhere.

6. Just say no to souvenirs (or give the kids a budget)

One super-cheap souvenir we always allow – a pressed penny (they’re not just at Disney!)

We have learned just how easy it is to waste a lot of money with little souvenirs here and there. When you travel as much as we do, the costs really add up – not to mention the junk in our house back home! Now, we truly try to avoid spending much money at all on things when we travel. The experience of the trip is the gift! When we do cave in to souvenirs, we give our older daughter a set budget. That way we stick to our own budget in the process while also teaching her some important financial lessons at the same time.

What family road trip budget secrets have I missed? Share your ideas in the comments.

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Wednesday 2nd of August 2017

The "along a route" feature is a great idea for booking hotels! My two roadtrip tips: order free city and state maps from AAA (if you are a member), and check out the events calendars for the cities you are staying in. Hotel prices may be higher if the state fair or a big festival is in town.

tripswithtykes

Great tips! Thanks for coming by to share them. I think so many younger travelers dismiss AAA as something our parents or grandparents used, but my family swears by our membership! Maps and roadside assistance are still very important.

How to Take a Frugal RoadTrip

By: Author Tasia

Summer’s here, and what better way to kick off your vacay than a budget-friendly road trip? It’s adventurous, easy on the pocket, and perfect for solo trips, family time, or chillin’ with your gang!

It doesn’t matter what I’m doing, I want to save money, and when it comes to how to take a road trip cheap, I’m your girl!

I’ll show you how to plan, save money, go on free escapades, pack like a pro, keep safe, and tackle any surprise speedbumps on your frugal, fun-filled journey – let’s hit the road!

Planning Your Cheap Roadtrip

Alright, let’s get you ready for your next big trip!

Here are three crucial steps to remember when planning your perfect adventure.

Choose Your Destination. Take some time to consider your interests, preferences, and how much time you have. Look for diverse landscapes, attractions, and historical sites that fit your budget.

Set a Budget. It’s no secret that you need money to travel, so determine your overall budget and then allocate funds for gas, accommodation, food, activities, and emergencies.

Create a Flexible Itinerary. Start by outlining your route, including must-visit destinations. But don’t forget to leave some room for spontaneity and meltdowns, I mean detours – that’s where the Frustration, I mean magic, happens!

Saving Money on Gas

Gas is probably one of the biggest costs besides food when taking a road trip. Luckily there are different ways to plan ahead to find the cheapest gas on your route.

Drive Fuel-Efficiently. Keep your speed steady, steer clear of sudden braking or acceleration, and use cruise control if possible.

Shop Around for Cheap Gas. Make the most of apps like GasBuddy , Upside ( This gives you cashback on gas, like Ibotta for groceries ) or sites such as AAA Fuel Price Finder t o locate the most affordable gas stations en route.

Get Loyalty Points. Signup for gas station loyalty programs or credit cards to enjoy cashback and discounts on fuel purchases.

An easy trick to save some cash on gas is if you have wholesale clubs, Walmart, or Tops in your area, then you’re in luck! These places are a goldmine for gas savings.

Affordable Accommodation

Camping. When I was a kid my parents always chose camping, and as an adult, I thought it was because my parents enjoyed it that much. When I became a mother, I realized it was because of the cost! Now at almost 40 and having two tweens, camping in our tent on the ground is not as appealing.

When you are young and the kids are young it’s such a great option. I know many today have campers who are very comfy.

National and state parks often offer campsites at reasonable rates, allowing you to enjoy nature while saving money. We’ve always stayed at New York State Campgrounds. I always look at the maps in advance to find a spot that is a little more secluded.

If you want the ultimate camping experience grab my camping planner and use code TIKTOK for 50% OFF!

Budget-Friendly Hotels. Look for budget hotel chains or book accommodations in advance to secure the best deals. My favorite way to find a deal on a hotel is using sites like Expedia or cheap tickets.

I recently signed up for AARP ( it’s not just for seniors), and they also offer a discount on hotels.

Alternative Lodging. Explore options like vacation rentals, hostels, or staying with friends or relatives along your route.

Budget-Friendly Meals

Let’s get real; food is a big part of any trip. Here are my tips for saving money while still chowing down on some tasty grub:

Pack Your Own Snacks. No need to blow your budget on overpriced convenience store munchies. Just bring along some fruit, sandwiches, and trail mix from home.

Cook Your Own Meals. Consider booking accommodation with a kitchenette or packing a camping stove so you can whip up simple and budget-friendly meals .

Here are my must-have frugal items for an epic camping trip .

Local Cuisine and Food Trucks. Sometimes you will find better deals on Food Trucks than on restaurants. If you choose to do a fast food place, always look for the meal deals and check to see if they have any extra discounts in their apps.

Many times when you download one of their apps for the first time, you unlock exclusive savings.

Preplanning

Pre-planning is key, folks! First things first, research free or low-cost activities, festivals or events happening in your destination during your visit.

To discover hidden gems and read reviews, use travel apps and websites like TripAdvisor, Yelp or Roadtrippers.

Pro-tip : Don’t forget to check for city or state attraction passes or online coupons that offer discounts on popular attractions.

Free Activities & Sightseeing

Hiking and Nature Trails. Get outside and take in the stunning natural beauty of local or n ational/state parks.

Walking Tours. Uncover hidden gems and learn about a city’s culture and history with a knowledgeable local leading the way.

Community Events. Look at local event listings for farmers’ markets, street festivals, art exhibits, or concerts–for free!

Smart Packing

Pack only the essentials to avoid a cramped ride. Stick to versatile, mixed, and matched clothing options for maximum style and comfort.

Stay hydrated and do your part for the environment by bringing reusable water bottles. Also, download any directions to your phone in case of loss of wifi. Pack chargers for your devices, crucial documents, and a first aid kit in case of any boo-boo.

The DVD players for cars have come down in price, and I’ve even spotted several at thrift stores.

Take things that will keep the kids occupied on long stretches of boring roads. Books, crayons, simple crafts, Travel Bingo , and digital devices are all excellent options. There are so many unique gadgets on Amazon for the kids.

For drivers, consider loading some audiobooks on your phone to keep you entertained while driving. 

I recommend having trash bags for the car too. With kids in the back, you know how quickly snack wrappers and whatnot add up. Keep it nice and tidy with a car trash bag.

Look at how muddy the back is during softball season! Life with kids right?

Amazon doesn’t sell the ones we have anymore.

You can also plan to stop at free parks along the way if you are traveling pretty far and need to help the kiddos get some energy out.

Vehicle Check

Go through and check to ensure you don’t need anything done on your vehicle to prevent any breakdown, and fill up the tank the night before you leave.

If you need new tires- I’ve found Sam’s Club to have the cheapest price.

Have Fun And Enjoy The Journey 

Regarding road trips, remember this: they’re all about the journey, not just the destination. So, if you spot a cool sign, take a detour! Stop to admire the scenery and have some fun. Because, let’s face it, road trips are supposed to be a blast! Happy Traveling!

Want to plan a girl’s trip on a budget? Here’s what I did.

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• Summer Vacations

16 Affordable Family Vacations to Take This Summer

From laid-back islands to charming small towns and bustling cities, here are some great getaways on a budget.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Summer is right around the corner and vacation is top of mind. And while any trip will set you back a bit, there are plenty of destinations that won't break the bank. The trick is picking the right one — places where the summer season is quieter or lodging and food are more affordable. And when you're traveling with kids, things like pre-packing snacks and shopping at local grocery stores to prepare your own meals can go a long way toward lowering overall costs.

To lend a hand, we've rounded up 16 spots where you can have a memorable vacation at a reasonable price. The best family vacation destinations have free and lower-priced attractions, as well as properties that welcome kids with complimentary, family-friendly amenities.

Our roundup of the best summer vacation ideas includes a handful of relaxing beach destinations, bustling city excursions, and trips that include a bit of both. We've also listed domestic and international options, so you'll find inspiration for an all-out adventure and ideas for a long weekend away.

San Diego, California

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

California's sunny San Diego has tons of activities for families, with theme parks, water parks, kid-friendly museums, and 70 miles of beaches. The Go City All-Inclusive Pass can be used for top attractions such as the San Diego Zoo , Legoland California , harbor cruises, and several museums in Balboa Park, providing you with discounts of up to 50 percent per person.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor has plenty of places to go swimming, including the freshwater beach at Echo Lake, which has calm waves that are good for kids. You can also follow signs labeled "The Museum in the Streets" around Bar Harbor to create your own walking tour, or hop on one of the myriad hiking, walking, or cycling trails. At nearby Acadia National Park , a vehicle pass will get the whole family into the park for a day of hiking and views of Maine's wildlife and wild coast. Once you visit, you'll see why Maine is considered one of the best places to travel in August .

Winter Park, Colorado

While you might think of Winter Park as a snowy destination, it's also a great place to visit in the summer, especially if you're looking to escape the heat. In a single day, families can enjoy hiking, ropes courses, gondola rides, and climbing walls. Buy your day passes early — these provide access to all the activities noted — to secure the best available prices. Snow Mountain Ranch , a YMCA camp about 20 minutes away by car, has one of the only summertime tubing hills in the United States, as well as miniature golf, archery, and a climbing wall to keep everyone busy.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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" Kidsburgh " has tons of great activities for families — from the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium to the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh. In the summer, there's a 10-day Grand Prix with vintage cars and walking tours to help you enjoy the city and get some exercise. You'll also find economical lunch spots, while the subway line offers free rides around downtown. Consider hiking or biking along the Great Allegheny Passage , which provides a scenic, outdoorsy way to explore the city's many bridges and tunnels along a 150-mile trail.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If you and your kids love the water, head to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. At properties like The Breakers , guests can enjoy five water slides, several on-property pools, a sunken pirate ship, and a long lazy river. There's also shuffleboard, a giant chessboard, and cornhole. If your family is into mini-golf, look no further than this seaside town, which boasts over 30 courses .

St. Louis, Missouri

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Free attractions in St. Louis include Purina Farms (open April to October), where children can enjoy dog agility shows and animal barnyards, and the Saint Louis Art Museum , which is kid-friendly. Admission to the City Museum , with its 10-story slide, huge ball pit, and 40-foot high Ferris wheel, is available through day passes or memberships. Afterward, stop by Ted Drewes Frozen Custard , known for shakes so thick they can be served upside down.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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Located next to Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Gatlinburg is for the adventurous outdoor lover, with plenty of opportunities for biking, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting, and more than 800 miles of hiking trails. For a day of shopping that the whole family can get behind, visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community , an eight-mile loop road that features eateries alongside artisan galleries selling handmade goods.

Lodging options in Gatlinburg include resorts and cabins — check the tourism board's website to see which ones offer free nights or discounts . Gatlinburg is also about a 20-minute drive from country music icon Dolly Parton's famous Dollywood , a great day trip for all the amusement park lovers out there.

Lisbon, Portugal

Ready to explore the world with your kids? In Lisbon, families can enjoy an all-in-one city and beach vacation. Explore the city's distinct neighborhoods, castles, and palaces, or hop aboard a funicular to climb its steep hills for a scenic tour of the city. Lisbon is also home to 10 free museums, including the kid-friendly Money Museum.

Vienna, Austria

The walkability of Austria's capital city is part of what makes it such an affordable stop for families — plus, there are several free walking tours , including those that introduce you to the city's music, street art, and recreation. With the Vienna Pass , travelers receive complimentary access to more than 90 of the city's top attractions, including museums, a giant Ferris wheel, and spots like Madame Tussauds wax museum. The pass has single-day and multiday options, including up to six days at a steep discount.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is ideal for a family beach getaway thanks to its many all-inclusive resorts. While the country has lots of amazing destinations that are worth visiting, it's pretty hard to top Punta Cana. All ages can enjoy the 30 miles of white-sand coastline, picturesque coconut palms, and direct flights from more than 28 countries and 96 cities around the world.

Washington, D.C.

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For a family vacation in a bustling city full of affordable hotels , kid-friendly restaurants, and free attractions, plan a visit to Washington, D.C. The nation's capital has lots to offer for anyone on a budget. All the Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo , and the monuments and memorials along the National Mall are free to enter, as are several outdoorsy spots like Rock Creek Park and the U.S. National Arboretum . Plan ahead, though, as some require free timed passes for entry.

Register in advance through your home state representative's office and take the kids on a free (and educational) tour of The White House — if all else fails, the White House Visitor Center just around the corner makes a worthy alternative. You can also reserve free timed tickets online for a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol Building .

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

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There's plenty of free fun to be had right across the border in Canada. In Victoria, British Columbia, on the country's western coast, families can stroll through Beacon Hill Park , try their hand at lawn bowling, or drop by the children's farm to meet the park's residents and watch the twice-daily "goat stampede." For a day of coastal bliss, walk along the water at iconic Fisherman's Wharf and grab a sweet treat at Jackson's Ice Cream . A day at WildPlay Element Parks ' Victoria location offers a variety of aerial adventure packages with access to zip lines, wobbly bridges, rope swings, ax throwing, and bungee jumping.

Morro Bay, California

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There's nothing quite like settling in along the California coast with your kids in tow, and the often overlooked community of Morro Bay is a great place to visit. Spot otters and whales from the coast, pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, or spend the day sailing, golfing, biking, or surfing. When you need a break, grab a bite at Sylvester's Burgers — the garlic fries are out of this world! Afterward, head to Morro Bay State Park or drop by the Morro Bay Maritime Museum .

Rincón, Puerto Rico

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Puerto Rico has a little something for everyone, and it's easily accessible with direct flights from more than 50 cities. The surf town of Rincón, on the westernmost tip of the island, is about a 2.5-hour drive from San Juan. Its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and great waves are perfect for families. Book a room at the Rincon of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel , or save on food by reserving a villa with a kitchen — the largest villas can accommodate up to six people. Either way, this hotel puts you right on the sea and has a stunning beachfront pool perfect for lounging and playing.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

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In the summer, there's no place like Mackinac Island , a National Historic Landmark void of chain hotels and cars — yes, you read that right. Instead, your family will be treated to an old-timey experience filled with world-famous Mackinac Island fudge and days spent biking around the island, taking a ferry under the Mackinac Bridge, or cruising around the coast by kayak.

The star of the island is the historic Grand Hotel , which opened its doors in 1887. In addition to old-world hospitality and perks like afternoon tea, the hotel features on-site stables and an expansive pool. Kids can also spend the day playing lawn games and mini-golf.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

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A trip to the Grand Canyon is almost certainly on the to-do list for lots of families. And while the natural wonder tends to be busy in the summer, you can avoid the crowds and find better pricing by heading to the North Rim (open seasonally). Cozy up in the Grand Canyon Lodge — book early to secure a room — or reserve a campsite at the North Rim Campground. This area offers pleasant summer temperatures and serves as the perfect base camp to enjoy the abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and views of the stunning canyon, which is 270 miles long, 18 miles wide, and a mile deep.

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Quick Family Weekend Getaways Near DFW

Plan now with these quick family weekend getaways near DFW!

Family road trips have been rising lately and will continue throughout the year. Families want to get away, so taking road trips seems the best option. Summer is a great time to make these quick family weekend getaways near DFW happen. There’s plenty of time this year to take a family getaway. I’ve got some pretty neat places to show you that are only 3 hrs or fewer from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Read on for a great family vacation!

Related: Fall In Love With Tiny Modern Camping

Tiny Cabin Family Weekend Getaways Near DFW

Today, I’m sharing family weekend getaways I’ve been on and a few my friends have been on that are worth mentioning. You’ll want to grab a drink and a notepad because these places are too good not to visit. To all nature lovers – get your mountain bikes ready!

1. Larue, TX (East Texas)

First up is Piney Woods Getaway Cabins in Larue, TX. I took my son and mom last month, and we had a blast. Before we left home, I scoured the area for fun activities. It seems like the perfect place to explore nature and hike, but I was looking for another type of adventure that my son and I could do together. I found the perfect adventure …and it’s my favorite. A zip line course wasn’t too far away! Please read all about it here >>> Tiny Cabin Camping in East Texas .

2. Cleburne, TX – A Quick Family Weekend From Fort Worth

I enjoyed being hosted in Cleburne for a weekend with my tag-a-long.

Each weekend getaway near DFW mentioned here would be a great place for you and your family to take and leave the madness behind. Most are under 3 hours, with a few slightly over, but not by much. Not bad for a road trip. And, if the kids get bored, you can always play family games in the car .

3. Best Day Ever Ranch, Whitewright, TX

When we were there in 2016, the cabins were newly updated and cute! Cabins are small, with steep stairs to a loft; however, other options do not have steep stairs. My favorite thing was having coffee on the porch the next morning. Someone close by was playing country music, and it just all seemed so serial. If you get the chance, ask to see the treehouse cabin. The bathtub alone is worth renting.

Each rental gets a golf cart to use; sorry, no golf club or golf courses – but who needs one? But the best part is that most of their cabins have an outdoor shower—incredible. BDER also offers an event center perfect for weddings, an incredible outdoor gazebo, and lots of room to roam for your guests. You have to read about this place. I want to return for another weekend trip — camping at Best Day Ever Ranch .

BDER is a quick weekend getaway from Dallas; your entire family will love it.

4. Getaway Tiny Cabins – Navasota, TX

You’ll find another Getaway Cabin in the small town of Navasota (close to Houston), just a short drive from Dallas. We went, and it was the best way to hang out in nature for my kid – read about it here – so fun – Tiny Modern Camping .

Keep in mind; that these cabins are tiny, but the view of nature is why this company chose each area to place their small cabins. See their site using my affiliate link here – Getaway Tiny Cabins . Along with these two locations, there are cabins in the Austin and San Antonio area and a few scattered around the east and west coast. If you like what you see, use my promo code GREENMOM for $25 off your next weekend escape!

5. Staycation at Gaylord Texan Resort

If you know me, you know I love spending time at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, TX. This past summer, I was invited to stay the night and enjoy Summerfest activities and Paradise Springs. I decided to ask a couple of my girlfriends to come along. It was also my birthday, so my time there was extra special. We met so many Texas families there. I wished I’d brought my kid.

Have you taken your family to the Gaylord Texan Summerfest they have every summer? It’s wild and fun. It changes every year, and they had Bingo, Canvas painting, and more this year. The girls and I also took some time to enjoy the outdoor resort pool. We could get into quite a few activities in the short time we were there. It’s a memory down in the books for me.

Of course, the Gaylord Texan is only minutes from Dallas and Fort Worth — a staycation I always recommend with the family.

6. A Great Getaway in Frisco, TX

Oh, what fun we two had in Frisco. Plus, I drove a 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum media car, and we were going in style. Frisco is one of the best places to hang out for a day or weekend in North Texas – complete with live music, a fun downtown area on Main Street, fun escape rooms, and more. Here’s our girlfriend’s getaway in Frisco, TX .

7. Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose, TX, has a beautiful state park to spend the day or a weekend with hiking trails, picnic tables, a playground, geocaching, and dinosaur tracks! Dinosaur Valley State Park is one of the best day trips I’ve been on with kids. But spending a fun weekend camping out would also be fun. If you have the time, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is not too far. It’s great for young kids, but older kids will like it too. Remember that the dinosaur tracks are most visible when there are low water levels. Oh, the park has a store with supplies, some food, and even a small gift shop.

8. Quick Family Weekend Getaways Near DFW – Oklahoma

Just three hours north on Interstate 35 N in Oklahoma City is Bricktown and a couple of prominent Districts with something for tourists to see and do. Last year, my son and I went on a hosted trip and had the best time cruising around the city. Every minute of our weekend getaway, we were busy trying to hit every district they had planned for us. We had an itinerary from Visit OKC to follow, so you know we were busy. Oh, and you have to see the purple penguins in the hotel and the white-water rapids ride we took – it scared the you-know-what out of me , but my son loved it. Please read about our weekend escape and the best things to do >>> Our Oklahoma City Family Adventure .

9. Lake Texoma

A friend of mine and her family rented a cabin at Lake Texoma from Light House Marina. She told me she’s been cooped up too long at home and needed a quick weekend escape. Texhoma is less than 2 hrs from DFW and has been popular for years. I hear there’s great fishing to do. Esther told me their rented cabin had a full kitchen, bathroom, cable, and AC but that they wouldn’t go back there. They also rented a boat. Sounds fun to me.

10. Carlton Landing on Lake Eufaula

Then you have Carlton Landing on Lake Eufaula. Lake Eufaula is just under 3 hours from Dallas on Hwy 75. We had the pleasure of going there for a few nights in 2015. It was the first road trip we took where we were comped for two nights in a rental. See the fun we had >>>> Carlton Landing Lake Eufaula Weekend Escape . We haven’t been back, but I’m sure it’s even more beautiful, as they were just getting started with the Carlton Landing Community. I know they were adding a General Store, a School House, and even a Church in the community.

11. Broken Bow Cabins

Have you seen the houses you can rent in Broken Bow, Oklahoma? They are gorgeous! I saw a glimpse of a few on Instagram a while back. Then, I remembered my niece went there last year (in October). She and her family had a blast and said she would return in a heartbeat. Okay, so Broken Bow isn’t quite a quick family weekend getaway near DFW, more like 4 hours, but still, I’ve heard marvelous things about going there.

Update: My niece did go back, AND so did I! I took my mom along for a mother-daughter getaway – here’s our trip – A road trip to Broken Bow

Ok, just a short drive from DFW, you and your family can have a wonderful time before school starts. Which weekend getaway near DFW do you like best so far?

Mother-Daughter Road Trip to Broken Bow, OK

Another Mother-daughter trip is in the books for us. I try to take my mom on as many road trips as possible. She’s 82 and still likes to get out of the house and go sightseeing and on road trips, but she never goes alone, so she goes with me. Lucky me, I found another person to go to tasting rooms with. For a good wine-tasting afternoon, try any in Broken Bow – there are a few!

After seeing that my niece has been to Broken Bow twice, I’ve wanted to go for quite some time and find a place that offers hot tubs with every property and, of course, a full kitchen and a spacious dining room. We found it here – our Broken Bow road trip .

12. Turner Falls Park

Turner Falls is only an hour’s drive from my home. I can’t believe it took me this long to get there. I went when I was younger but haven’t been back since – shame on me.

Family travel has never been better, and these places are a great way to see a fun place that perhaps you’ve never seen before. Grab the whole family and plan today!!

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18 thoughts on “quick family weekend getaways near dfw”.

I would love to hear about your recommendation to go to Cleburne. You only mentioned that you went there, but why do you recommend it? What is there to do?

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Aren’t they? I long for them.

Good, and thank you!

Sending this to a few of my friends in DFW! I wish I was nearby to check some of these places out!

Just thinking about doing a short little vacation before school starts. Weekend getaways are so nice!

I love weekend getaways! I was just looking into some near my hometown!

How fun! We don’t live far from this area, so I’ll keep these in mind.

I wish there was a cabin near here, I’d love to go at the lake

Aww this looks so fun, I love weekend getaways they are so easy and so fun.

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5 Tips for Making Driving with Kids More Peaceful for Everyone, According to RV Families

These full-time RV families (including Family of Nomads and RV Family Reno) give their best tips to keep the "are we there yets" to a minimum

The Wanderpreneurs

Once upon a time, family road trips were all but guaranteed to feature a few recurring elements: sibling bickering, the license plate game, and the phrase “Are we there yet?” on repeat.

Built-in movie screens, tablets, and other digital entertainment have helped make long car rides a little more bearable, but they’re not always foolproof for keeping the kids engaged. Now that road trip season is in full swing, we turned to the experts: Parents who traverse the U.S. with their children, clocking in hours on the highway in an RV.

Read on for their best tips on how to keep everyone in the car happy — and the parents from swearing to turn this car around if you touch your brother one more time! (Just us?)

Limit screen time

“When our kids get too much screen time in the car, they get cranky, aren't being stimulated, constantly say they are bored, and overall are just more grumpy,” says Rachel Oldenburger , of  @rv.family.reno .

Oldenburger spent years renovating RVs for clients, and now rents out her own (when she and her family aren’t using it to hit lakes, beaches, and beautiful campgrounds around the country). As surprising as it sounds, the mom of two says her kids behave better on long road trips when their screen time is limited.

Go in with a plan

Oldenburger suggests making a game plan long before you pack up the car. During a recent 18-hour trip, she estimated they would stop for gas about every three hours, and created a schedule with three hour-long blocks that reset after every pit stop. “This way, the kids know what to expect,” she says. “There is less arguing, and it's just something to look forward to during a road trip that seems never-ending!”

For Jessica Roderick, who spent three adventurous years living in an RV with her family and is the creator behind family.of.nomads , she says when her kids were younger they would take a break from driving every hour, “no matter what."

“I would set a timer — that they could see — for an hour, and they would know that when the timer was ending I would start looking for a place to stop, even if it’s just to stretch our legs and walk around for a few minutes," she says. "The timer prevented the “are we there yet” refrain, “and if kids know what’s going on and what to expect, they usually will do a lot better on long road trips."

Bring the best activities

Hour one of Oldenburger’s schedule is for art and activities, including coloring books , crayons , and activity kits that come with dry erase markers. She also recommends a travel tray for each kid, which can help keep their gear and snacks organized. Meanwhile, Lauren Grijalva, the mom of two who runs The Wanderpreneurs along with her husband, Aaron, says that their 11- and 13-year-olds love to read. “They will often read an entire novel in one sitting if we’re traveling, so we make sure they have a good book!” she says. 

Take advantage of the togetherness

Courtesy of Jessica McCorkle/@family.of.nomads

Regular life filled with busywork and school schedules can make it tough to stop long enough to have a real conversation with your kids. Take advantage of car time together, when there are no outside distractions, to connect with your crew.

For Jessica Roderick of @family.of.nomads , road trips are the best way to get her three kids talking. “It’s uninterrupted time together, and not always, but a lot of the time we end up having really great conversations that would be hard to have at home because someone is always busy or gets distracted,” she says.

For Oldenburger, her schedule’s "hour two: block centers on more engaging time together, chatting, listening to music, and playing games, including I Spy and the timeless license plate game. 

Okay, some screen time is fine

Inevitably, you're going to need to get the screens out during an 18-hour trip — but you can be smart about how to dole it out in a way that keeps the kids entertained without becoming full-on zombies.

During hour three of their schedule, Oldenburger’s kids usually opt to play a game on their Switch or watch a show on their tablet. “We purposely put this as the last hour of the rotation so that when we stop for gas, that's the clear end time for tablet time and then we go back to playing with the activity tables when we get back on the road,” she notes. 

For Molly and Jaren Garcia and their three kids, the full-time RV-ing family behind WePlusThreee , life in a motor home makes it feel much easier to stay entertained.

“But for longer travel days my kids love to grab their Nintendo Switches and play games together by sharing their controllers,” says Molly Garcia. At the moment, the kids are particularly partial to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Human: Fall Flat, she notes.

But the screens stay in the vehicle: “When we get to a location we explore outside and electronics become a thing of the past.”

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