Given the ready availability of cheap traveloptions, including cheapairplane tickets, discount hotel rooms, cheap auto rentals, discounttravel deals, and cheap vacation packages,family travel remains affordable.
The following are suggestions on how to take advantage ofthe freebies, discounts, and conveniences that are offered by many kid friendlyhotels:
-
If youare traveling with babies consider packing some baby proofing items withyou. Small things such as outlet coverswont take up much space and will ensure your crawlers safety as he exploreshis new surroundings.
-
Remindlarger kids that home rules apply to hotels as well, including dont open thedoor to strangers and dont leave the door open or unlocked. Parents need to also remember to not leavethe kids alone in a hotel room.
-
Beforesigning your children up for a kids club ask about allergies, backgroundchecks, the visitation policy for parents, the ratio of caretakers to childrenand who will be watching the door, pool, etc. to ensure your little ones areproperly watched.
-
Dontbe reluctant to ask hotels for child friendly products. Many hotels now offer stuffed animals,coloring books, crayons, rubber ducks for baths, and more for free. Some have game rooms or libraries stockedwith board games, video games, puzzles and books that can be borrowed. Pool toys are also often available.
-
Makeyour needs known up front (such as requesting a crib or a mini fridge) whenmaking your reservation. Ask about themaximum occupancy of each room if you will be traveling with multiple children.
-
Jointhe loyalty program of the hotel you will be staying. Membership is free, points that can beredeemed for future stays can be earned, and discounts are oftenavailable. Typically the more oftenmembers stay at a particular chain, the higher the status they earn and themore perks are made available.
-
Lookfor hotels that offer free breakfast which is common at most family friendlyhotels. The Doubletree is well known foroffering warm chocolate chip cookies at check-in. Some hotels allow up to four kids 12 andunder to eat free at their on-site restaurants with a paying adult.
-
Toensure that your trip remains on budget consider selecting a hotel that offersrooms with kitchens. Since you will mostlikely want to eat out at least a couple of nights, research family friendlylocal eating spots in advance or ask the concierge for recommendations.
-
Oftenit is smarter to pack light and do a load of wash while traveling consideringthe high cost of checking bags and the limited space in rental cars. Determine your laundry options before departure.
-
Watchout for hidden costs. Ask up front aboutfees for parking, exceeding double occupancy, rollaway beds, cribs, and anyother potential surprise. Remember thatwhile all inclusive resorts typically include meals, many resort activitiescan be very expensive. Keep your kidsaway from the mini fridge stored snacks in your room.
-
Lookinto joining the Automobile Association of America whose members tend toreceive great deals from major hotel chains. Additional benefits include travel guides, entertainment discounts, andrapid response roadside assistance. Membership automatically enrolls you in the Hertz Gold Plus programs,which provides one free car seat when you rent from Hertz.
-
Dontforget Date Night while traveling with kids. If you will be staying at a warm weather destination, considerrequesting a room with a terrace or patio and order room service after the kidsgo to bed.
www.cheapfares.com