Everyone loves a vacation, the time away from the daily grind helps you reset and find peace. Many people are finding vacations more difficult to afford as finances tighten, my family of six included. I am always on the lookout for ways to save money and at the same time still enjoy the finer things in life. The key to saving money on meals when on vacation is to do your homework before you leave the house. Being prepared will save you a bundle; Here are some tips that work for our family.
Top 3 Tips Before You Go:
- Use the Internet! Do a search for "Restaurant Printable Coupons" in the city you will be visiting. There are tons of sites that post coupons that you can print and use for Free Appetizers, Desserts, even money off your bill.
- You usually plan a big vacation months in advance so sign up for restaurant e-mail newsletters. Restaurants send out coupons usually weekly or bi-weekly right to your inbox, save these for your big trip.
- Use your coupon books - it pays to buy an Entertainment Book or other coupon savings book. Usually the use of one or two coupons pays for the cost of the book. You can preview the books online to see if there are coupons you would use and buy the book for the area you are traveling to.
- Stop at the welcome center and pick up the FREE Traveler's Guides once you arrive at your destination. Restaurants advertise in these little brochures and area attraction booklets. You may find coupons for restaurants you planned to dine at.
- Restaurants often times drop off promotional information such as specials and coupons to the area hotels so make sure you ask your hotel when you check in.
- Share meals - Sometimes the Kid's Meals are over-priced for what you get or include items your kids won't eat. Order food from the adult menu and split it up between your kids.The portions are bigger and you can choose more of something you know they'll eat.
- Adults can share too. Let's face it, the portions are generally more than what you could (or should) eat. Share with your spouse or friend. Many restaurants allow this and they don't mind putting it on two separate plates before it comes out.
- If your appetite is not ready for a full course meal consider the appetizers. There are usually some good choices that are filling for times when you just aren't that hungry.
- Skip the fountain soda drinks! These are expensive, usually $2.00 each or more. If you absolutely cannot stand water, consider sharing drinks, at least for the kids.
- Look for restaurants with Early Bird or Daily Specials. Sometimes when you eat an hour earlier or on a certain day, there is a substantial savings.
- Sites like Restaurant.com offer discount gift certificates to restaurants. They run specials that allow you to purchase $25 gift certificates for as little as $3 each! Be sure to check the details of the offers and make sure there aren't any exclusions or minimum purchase requirements you might not meet.
- Buffets can sometimes work to your advantage. If you have small children (usually under 3), many buffets will allow them to eat for free or very cheap.
- Kids Eat Free Promotions are the best and you should always look for these when you are planning a vacation. It is a simple, easy way to save money and will definitely save your budget on vacation. Make sure you call the restaurants in the area where you are vacationing to be sure they participate.
If you are organized, you can definitely save money when dining on vacation. Take the time to plan your meals and you will be pleasantly surprised by the outcome. What makes me an expert? I love to travel and do fun things with my family of six and have learned that the more we save, the more we can do!
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