Going on a family vacation without breaking the bank is possible! With the right strategies and tools, you can give your children an unforgettable holiday while staying within your budget. Here's our A complete guide to smart family travel.
The golden rule: anticipate and compare
When traveling as a family, expenses quickly add up: 4 plane tickets, 2 hotel rooms (or an apartment), activities, meals… Planning and comparison are your best allies for making substantial savings.
👉 Compare family flights on SkyAnna — child discount fares available
✈️ Save on family flights
Do children fly for less?
Yes! According to the companies:
- Less than 2 years : travel on an adult's lap, often free or -90%
- 2-11 years old : discount of 25 to 50% on most airlines
- From age 12 : adult price in most cases
Tips for family flights
- Compare low-cost vs. regular airlines for short-haul flights (Ryanair, easyJet, Transavia)
- Travel outside of school holidays if possible (savings of 30-50%)
- Travel early in the morning or late at night — the children are asleep, flights are cheaper
- Book all tickets together to avoid being separated on the plane
🏨 Choosing the right family accommodation
A traditional hotel isn't always the most economical option for a family. Here are the best alternatives:
Holiday apartment
A fully equipped kitchen saves money on meals (€30-50/day per family). More space for children. Often 20-30% cheaper than an equivalent hotel for a family of 4.
Family club or resort
Holiday clubs (Club Med, Fram, Pierre & Vacances) offer convenient all-inclusive packages: kids' clubs, entertainment, and on-site dining. Convenient, but check the value for money.
Camping
Modern campsites offer swimming pools, water slides, entertainment, and comfortable mobile homes. An economical and fun option that children love!
👉 Compare family accommodations on SkyAnna
🗺️ The best family destinations on a budget
- 🇹🇳 Tunisia All-inclusive from €400 per person, flights included, magnificent beaches, children adored
- 🇲🇦 Morocco A complete change of scenery, rich culture, very affordable prices
- 🇭🇷 Croatia Crystal-clear sea, excellent family campsites, magnificent islands
- 🇵🇹 Portugal (Algarve) Spectacular beaches, reasonable prices, warm welcome
- 🇨🇿 Czech Republic Castles and history to amaze children, on a budget
🍽️ Save on family meals
- Breakfast Choose accommodation with a kitchen or shop at the local supermarket.
- Lunch This is the main meal in many countries — lunchtime options are cheaper than dinner.
- Dinner Cook at home or opt for local markets and street food.
- Children's menu Often included or discounted in family restaurants
🎡 Free or inexpensive activities with children
- Beaches, parks, public gardens: free and loved by children
- Free museums on the first Sunday of the month in many cities
- Hiking and nature: zero cost, unforgettable memories
- Local markets: colors, flavors and culture at affordable prices
Conclusion: Your family budget checklist
- ✅ Book 3-6 months in advance
- ✅ Compare flights + accommodation on SkyAnna
- ✅ Opt for an apartment with a kitchen
- ✅ Travel outside of school holidays if possible
- ✅ Set a daily budget and stick to it
- ✅ Take out family travel insurance
👉 Plan your next family holiday on SkyAnna and start saving now 🌍