Most families go on vacation during the summer — after all, since the kids are out of school, that’s one less factor to plan around. But passing on the chance to vacation during the fall or winter months potentially deprives your family of sights and adventures that only occur during the last half of the year, as well as diminished travel costs from vacationing during an off season.
Winter
If your hometown turns frigid during the winter months, book a round-trip flight down to San Antonio, Texas. Near the end of November, a brilliant light show is on display which lines the San Antonio River Walk. Dazzling lights sparkle off of the river while riverboats ferry bell choirs, folk groups, and Latino ensembles downstream as they serenade you and your family with Christmas carols. There are also plenty of exotic places to eat nearby, providing a true adventure for all of your senses.
Spring
When springtime hits, many feel the urge to travel to an exotic island or beach. Why not try Las Vegas, Nevada? Springtime brings comfortable weather to Las Vegas, and the bright lights are a sight to behold. Although Vegas is seen as a gambling destination, it features plenty of family-friendly entertainment such as concerts, magic shows, museums, and water parks. The hotels are nothing short of luxurious and are a spectacle all on their own with aquariums, shopping malls, and restaurants.
Summer
If summer is too hot where you live, pack up the family and head to delightful San Francisco, California. It may seem odd to head to California to escape summertime heat, but San Francisco is blessed with a cool, breezy summer that stays in the 70s. For fun, you can take a tour of Alcatraz, visit the Golden Gate Bridge, and ride a trolley through town. When you get hungry, there are food trucks, ice cream shops, and seafood diners on every street.
Fall
For the most beautiful time of the year, enjoy the fullest palette of colors on your vacation by heading to Lancaster, Ohio. You’ll arrive in time to watch the trees change color and enjoy the hospitality of Amish Country. Home-cooked meals, handmade soaps, and wholesome sweets await you. Take a little drive to the surrounding cities to enjoy the amazing haunted houses which operate during this time of the year.
Family vacations can be expensive — so much so that thousands of Americans get in debt every year just to fund them. Instead of relying on loans or credit cards, here are some tips for having debt-free fun:
- keep a savings account
- plan at least 9 months in advance
- wait for sales
- set up a payment schedule (if possible)
- don’t fly to your destination
If your children have already flown the nest and you don’t need it anymore, selling your life insurance policy can also be an excellent way to not only fund this vacation, but also years of memories for the future.
