Family vacations are about creating memories, not breaking the bank. With a bit of planning and the right tools, you can have an amazing trip without worrying about your wallet. Here's how to plan a budget-friendly family getaway that’s all about enjoying the moment.
1. Set a Clear Budget with bunq
Every great trip starts with a solid plan. Knowing what you want to spend makes every other decision easier.
Start with a total budget: Think about how much you want to spend overall—then break it down by category (travel, accommodation, food, activities, etc.
Track everything in real time: With bunq, you can set Spending Limits, monitor transactions with Insights, and create multiple Bank Accounts for different parts of your trip. That way, you always know where your money’s going.
Adjust as you go: Spending more on day trips? Cut back on meals out. bunq helps you stay flexible—without losing control.
Planning a family trip can be a lot, but your budget doesn’t have to be. With bunq, you can also categorize your transactions to see exactly where your money goes, helping you make adjustments as needed.
2. Choose a Budget-Friendly Destination
Where you go affects what you’ll spend. But choosing a budget-friendly destination doesn’t mean giving up on fun.
Travel off-season: Avoid peak holiday periods and school breaks for better prices and fewer crowds.
Think closer to home: A road trip or a nearby hidden gem can save on flights and still feel like a proper getaway.
Look for free experiences: Parks, beaches, nature walks, city trails—many of the best activities won’t cost a thing.
To make planning easier, use bunq’s Places feature to find hidden gems recommended by other bunq users. Whether it’s a quiet lake for a picnic or a free family event in town, you’ll find more than what the guidebooks show.
3. Book at the Right Time
Traveling at the right time can save you money and stress.
Book early to lock in lower prices on flights and hotels.
Or go last-minute: If your plans are flexible, you can snag great deals closer to your departure date.
Travel smart abroad: With ZeroFX, you get the real exchange rate, automatically. No hidden markups, no surprises when the bill hits.
4. Make Smart Choices on Travel and Accommodation
Transportation and accommodation often take up most of your budget. But there are easy ways to save.
Compare options before booking. There’s always a better deal if you know where to look.
Family-friendly stays: Places with kitchens or free breakfast can help you cut back on eating out.
Earn Cashback: Pay with your bunq card and get up to 2% Cashback on eligible bookings. It adds up fast—especially when you’re booking flights or hotels.
5. Save on Food Without Missing Out
Food is one of the easiest ways to overspend on a trip. Luckily, it’s also one of the easiest to manage.
Cook when you can: Booking accommodation with a kitchen helps you save without sacrificing good meals.
Pack snacks: It’s cheaper, faster, and avoids meltdowns between meals.
Pay the easy way: Use a bunq.me link at local shops or markets. No need to carry cash or fumble with cards.
Discover local gems: Eat like a local at budget-friendly spots. bunq’s Places feature can help you find the best local recommendations from other bunq users, ensuring you experience the culture without overspending.
It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about spending smart, so you can treat yourself when it matters most.
6. Find Fun That’s Free
Explore outdoors: Beach days, hikes, park picnics, or bike rides are free and unforgettable.
Check local calendars: Free concerts, museum days, and cultural events pop up all the time.
DIY activities: Games, scavenger hunts, or a family travel journal can make quiet days just as special.
7. Pack Like a Pro
Forgotten items = last-minute purchases = unnecessary expenses.
Make a checklist: Sunscreen, chargers, meds, layers for changing weather—cover the basics so you’re not stuck buying overpriced versions.
Plan for the weather: Avoid having to buy umbrellas, jackets, or extra outfits on the go.
Use ZeroFX again: Even small purchases (like snacks or souvenirs) can be cheaper with the right exchange rate.
A little prep goes a long way—especially when you’re packing for more than just yourself.
8. Focus on Time Together, Not What You Spend
At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spend—it’s about the moments you share.
Be spontaneous: Leave space for detours and unplanned fun.
Use Joint Accounts: Share expenses easily with your partner or older kids, and keep everyone on the same page.
Conclusion
Affordable family vacations aren’t just possible—they’re better with bunq. From budgeting and spending to exploring and sharing, everything you need to stay organized is in your pocket.
Less stress. More memories. That’s what a great trip should be.
Start planning your next family getaway with bunq—and make it one to remember.
