Family Vacation Time?

Financial literacy is an essential life skill necessary to make informed decisions about budgeting, borrowing and more. Equipped with this knowledge, kids grow up prepared for financial independence.

Teaching kids and teenagers financial literacy often falls on parents’ shoulders — and it isn’t always easy. You need to both keep your youngster involved and interested and make the process fun. One way is to use exciting opportunities, like family vacations, to teach your kids good saving habits.

Set goals for you and your kids

So, you’re going on a family vacation. It’s time to set some goals.

Decide where you’re going

First, decide on where you’re going. Use selecting a destination as an opportunity to get your kids talking about where they want to go and to create excitement. Pick a place together and let your kids know that the trip can only happen if they chip in financially.

Determine the costs

Whether your family is planning a Disneyland trip or a vacation to your kids’ favorite spot, it’s time to determine the costs.

Involve your kids in the process. Break down the numbers for transportation, lodging, entertainment and other expenses. Show your kids the total and discuss how they’ll help you save that amount.

Typically, the farther in advance you plan your vacation and start booking, the more time you have to save and get better deals. But your exact timeline will vary depending on the destination, estimated cost, season and how many people you’re traveling with.

For domestic travel, it’s best to start planning at least three or four months ahead. This will give you enough time to research and book flights and accommodations. You might want to give yourself more time, however, if you’re planning a trip during peak season or a holiday weekend, in which case booking at least six months in advance can help ensure you secure the best deals.

International destinations often require planning six to nine months in advance. In addition to flights, accommodations and activities, you also need enough time to research visas, vaccinations and passports.

Set A Timeline

Typically, the farther in advance you plan your vacation and start booking, the more time you have to save and get better deals. But your exact timeline will vary depending on the destination, estimated cost, season and how many people you’re traveling with.
For domestic travel, it’s best to start planning at least three or four months ahead. This will give you enough time to research and book flights and accommodations. You might want to give yourself more time, however, if you’re planning a trip during peak season or a holiday weekend, in which case booking at least six months in advance can help ensure you secure the best deals.
International destinations often require planning six to nine months in advance. In addition to flights, accommodations and activities, you also need enough time to research visas, vaccinations and passports.

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