On a family vacation to Ormond Beach, Fla. last year we bought deals on group discount sites to save at restaurants and attractions. This is the Daytona Beach ferris wheel.HERE'S A FROM THE VAULT POST ON SUMMER TRAVEL --
Couple of things I would add -- sign up from
,
or
l deal sites in and around the cities you plan to visit. Do it weeks in advance. You never know when a deal for an attraction or restaurant you plan to visit will be featured.
Also -- make sure you create a touring plan before you go. At least have an outline of options and locations for you to hit each day. This will help you maximize your time and gas expenses.
Are you headed out this summer? Looking for deals or wondering what's cheap in the city you're visiting?
There's a number of ways to get in the know before you hit the road.
1. Social Media is a great tool to help you save money.
Find the chamber of commerce for your destination on the web, Facebook or Twitter.
They are usually updating locals on festivals, freebies, deals from businesses and more.
2. Look for a deal blogger in the city you plan to visit.
Google the city name, and add frugal blog or deal blog to your search. I'm sure you'll get some hits.
3. Make a list of restaurants you want to visit.
Find them on Facebook or Twitter follow them for deals and coupons.
4. Register for e-newsletters from the restaurants, attractions and more in the destination spot.
Also register for emails to stores you might want to visit.
5. Find grocery stores in the city.
Know where they are at, find their ad online, find out their coupon policy. Take your coupons.
You never know when you will need to make a grocery run and you'll kick yourself if you don't have your coupons ready. Refer to point number 2.
6. Stockpile as many snacks, treats and necessities as you can before you go.
It's ok to be prepared.
7. Websites you'll want to check out:
www.parentsconnect.com You can check out the parent and kid scene city by city.
is a great tool to plot rest stops for kids to stretch their legs. It's a playground and park locator for cities across the nation. Some have reviews.
www.visitsouth.com is a great resource for southern destinations.
8. Redbox or Blockbuster for DVD players in the car
If you have a DVD player in your car, don't forget you can rent from the Redbox or Blockbuster express kiosks and return the movie anywhere in the nation. This is an easy and cheap way to get new movies for the kids to watch for the trip to and from. Register a new email and use a new debit card and get a free rental.
9. Samples -- Pack all of those samples in one bag, shampoo, soap, laundry soap, wipes, diapers, paper towels, garbage bags etc. You never know when you'll need it.
10. Grab a newspaper in the city you visit. There may be coupons inside -- don't forget to grab a Sunday paper too. They will have different inserts.
11. Rest-areas & Gas Stations --
Don't overlook those coupon booklets you find at rest areas and or the gas stations just off the interstate. They are often packed with great deals on restaurants, attractions and hotels.
Do you have a great summer travel tip? Let's hear it: