Traveling with a family can be overwhelming, stressful, and outright expensive. In this article, I’m going to cover a few simple tricks I always use when planning a trip for a family of four.
I’ll be honest — you’re not going to find me on extreme couponing. I don’t spend hours trying to save every nickel. I take a balanced approach: I save in the areas that make sense for our family, but I also splurge where it truly matters for the experience.
1. Google Flights – My #1 Dad Hack
With all the new AI tools and travel apps today, this may seem a little old school… but Google Flights is still the best place to start.
How I use it:
- First, find the largest airports near you that you’re willing to drive, bus, or Uber to. Bigger airports usually have more competition = better prices.
- BUT—don’t ignore small airports. Sometimes they have standard routes that are surprisingly affordable and way less chaotic.
- Then, always choose “One Way.”
I like breaking trips into separate one-way segments because it gives me maximum flexibility and usually saves money. - If you don’t know where you want to go yet, click “Explore.”
Here’s an example:
I recently checked one-way prices from the NY airports for the next 6 months. Based on that snapshot, Florida was showing tons of cheap options. Once I pick a good outbound flight, I simply search for a one-way home.
I have no airline loyalty. None.
I’m just searching for the best value for our family.
This approach lets you:
- Compare every airline individually
- Piece together flexible itineraries
- Save serious money
(Ask me about our Italy trip sometime. We flew to London first, then hopped to Rome the next day — saved hundreds!)
2. Flying – Why I Use the Capital One Venture Card
When I finally book the flights, I usually pay with the Capital One Venture card.
Our Referral Link Here:
If you don’t like credit cards or follow strict financial rules to avoid them, feel free to skip this part. But if you’re disciplined and pay off your balance (or most of it), this card can really help.
You earn points and can redeem them for travel purchases across most major airlines.
There is nothing better than logging in and seeing 40–50k points ready to erase $400–$500 of your flights.
2a. Backpacks Are Your Secret Weapon
Most airlines let every passenger bring a personal item — even kids. As a family of four, it’s common for us to travel with:
- 1 carry-on
- 3–4 backpacks
Yes, you may have to turn into Super Dad and carry more than one bag through the airport, but it saves money and keeps things simple.
2b. Don’t Be Afraid to Travel With Infants
Traveling with kids under 2 is awesome — they’re free (as long as they sit on your lap).
Car seats and strollers are also free to check, so don’t let that intimidate you.
Only you know what’s best for your family’s health and comfort, but financially? This is a great time to take trips.
3. Lodging – Stay Smart, Not Cheap
Finding a place to stay is easier than ever. This is where I personally balance cost with comfort.
We have a Hilton timeshare, so we usually check those locations first. But I still love comparing:
Any booking option that earns points
Airbnb
Hotels with loyalty programs
3a. Look for a Room With a Kitchenette
If you go the hotel route, try to find a room with a small kitchen. Yes, it costs a little more, but it pays you back quickly.
Our go-to move:
- Buy breakfast foods
- Make quick meals in the morning
- Head out with full bellies
This saves time, reduces hunger meltdowns, and keeps your food budget under control.
Extended-stay hotels like Home2Suites by Hilton usually include kitchenettes at a great price.
4. Get Ice Cream!
I’m not sure what you have planned for fun, but ice cream is always a good option on vacation.
And honestly, it’s a metaphor too.
After saving money on flights and lodging, it feels good to let the kids:
- Order dessert
- Get a soda
- Pick out a treat
- Choose an experience
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s memories.
If they’re too young to remember, take pictures.
If they’re older, these moments will stick.
Ice cream just helps everything feel sweeter. Let me know what you think in the comments!
Cape May, NJ 2018
