Hi Reader!

Spring Break is almost here—do you have plans yet? If not, don’t panic! You can still put together a fun and memorable family getaway. Here’s how to book a last-minute trip without the stress.

1️⃣ Find a Road Trip Destination

Road trips are the easiest last-minute option! Look for destinations within a 4-6 hour drive to maximize your vacation time.

🚗 Ideas by region:

• Midwest: Wisconsin Dells (waterpark fun), Kansas City (family-friendly attractions), Omaha (can't miss zoo and parks!)
• West: Moab, UT (national parks), San Diego (beach + city fun–one of our family's favorites!)
• South: Great Smoky Mountains (outdoors + budget-friendly cabins), Gulf Shores, AL (warm weather & beaches)
• East Coast: Washington, D.C. (museums & history), Myrtle Beach (family resorts)

🔹 Action Step: Use Google Maps to check drive times and plan a realistic route!

2️⃣ Snag Last-Minute Hotel or Rental Deals

Even though it’s peak season, you can still find deals! Try:

• Check Google Hotels First – Quickly compare prices across multiple booking sites and find hidden discounts. (hotels.google.com)
• Use Your Memberships for Instant Savings – AAA, AARP, Costco Travel, and Sam’s Club offer exclusive hotel discounts for members.
• Try Cashback & Rewards Sites – I always check Rakuten or TopCashback to see if I can earn cashback on my hotel booking.
• Message Airbnb or Vrbo Hosts – If the rental is still open a few days before check-in, hosts may be willing to offer a discount to fill the space. It is definitely worth a try!
• Flexible Dates? Try Sunday-Thursday stays for better rates and availability.

🔹 Action Step: Compare rates on Google Hotels (hotels.google.com) and book ASAP before prices rise!

3️⃣ Big City Fun Without the Big Price Tag

Big cities have so many free and budget-friendly activities for families! We’ve done this in places like Chicago, St. Louis, and San Diego, and it’s amazing how much you can do without spending a fortune.

• Chicago: Lincoln Park Zoo (free), Navy Pier, Museum of Science & Industry (use your Science center membership for free admission!)
• ​St. Louis: St. Louis Zoo, Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis Union Station
• ​San Diego: Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove (seals!), Cabrillo National Monument
• Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Museums (free!), National Zoo, Monuments tour

🔹 Action Step: Check CityPASS or Go City Pass for attraction bundles that save money!

4️⃣ Staycation Ideas (If You Can’t Travel!)

Not leaving town? No problem—some of my favorite memories with my boys are from simple, local adventures!
🏕 Backyard Campout: Pitch a tent, make s’mores, and tell stories.
🎭 Tourist for a Day: Visit local museums, parks, or new restaurants.
🎢 Day Trips: Find a fun town 1-2 hours away for a quick adventure.

🔹 Action Step: Look up “Things to do in [your city] with kids” for fresh ideas! I have various blog posts like this for different cities we have visited!

✨AND Next Week: The Ultimate Spring Break Packing List (With a Free Printable!) ✨

I’ll help you pack smarter, not harder—so you don’t forget the essentials (or the must-have snacks!). Stay tuned.

Need some help planning your trip? Grab our complimentary travel itinerary planner and start mapping out your next adventure.

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May you LOVE your adventure!

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