Keeping Kids Entertained on Road TripsThis is a page about ways to keep kids entertained on road trips. Keeping kids entertained can make a road trip more enjoyable for the whole family.
Fun Vacation Activities in North Dakota?We are considering a vacation in North Dakota and Teddy Roosevelt National Park in late July/early August and would appreciate any ideas on fun activities for a family with a pre-teen boy and a partly-disabled adult included (difficulty walking).
Things to Do With Kids in New Orleans?My husband and I are planning a vacation to New Orleans for a week with our toddler and teen. We've never been there and aren't into latenight partying and drinking. I've heard there's lots of things for a family do, but wondered if I could get any ideas or tips from you guys.
Planning a Trip to Six Flags St. Louis?Next week I am taking my kids (ages 16, 13, and 11) to Six Flags St. Louis. Can anyone share anything they found in Six Flags that was an unexpected treat? What about in the area around Six Flags, like in St. Louis or between there and Springfield or Peoria, IL?
Planning a Trip to Branson Missouri?I will be traveling in the near future to Branson, Missouri and I am wondering if anyone has any suggestions for places to visit in the area. We will be attending maybe one or two shows, however we would like to sight see popular places or eateries along the way.
Wildlife: Zebra (Groenkloof Nature Reserve)We went on a hike at Groenkloof Nature Reserve and were lucky enough to get close to this fellow in his striped PJ's.
Inexpensive Weekend Destinations in Washington State?Does anyone have any suggestions for places to take a cheap weekend vacation in Washington state?
Things to Do in Sarasota?Does anyone know of anything fun to do in Sarasota FL?
Planning a Vacation In London and Ireland?We are planning a trip to London in May. We'll be in London 4-5 nights then on to Ireland. We want to fly into Shannon and see places like castles, pubs, and the rest. We'd like to drive to Limerick. Any suggestions at all will be helpful and greatly appreciated.
Preparing for My First Trip Out of the Country?In April I am taking my first trip out of the country. I have my passport from a couple years ago and verified it was still good for several more. I bought my tickets to and from today. I acquired traveler's insurance. Okay what am I forgetting, over looking, or should consider?
Best Way to Pay for Things Overseas?We are traveling to Greece in April and have been requested to pay a deposit prior to arrival on accommodations in Euros. I am just wondering what is the cheapest and most effective way to do this? We have a Mastercard, but are concerned fees might be charged.
Planning a Train Trip to Canadian Rockies?My husband and I will be celebrating 40 years on Valentine's Day. We would like to take a train trip to the Canadian Rockies sometime during the year, but not in February because of the cold and snow.
Planning a Fall Foliage Trip in the South Central States?I would like to plan a RV trip to Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee for fall foliage. When do leaves begin to change in this area? I want to stay in state parks with easy hiking or riding to see foliage. Any ideas on good parks?
Anniversary Locations in Massachusetts?Can anyone recommend a thrifty place to celebrate an anniversary, preferably with a jacuzzi in the room? We are from Massachusetts and would prefer to stay in the state. Thanks!
Finding a Handicapped Accessible Room Online?I'm trying to find a hotel/motel handicap accessible room in Lancaster, PA for a few days in October. I've never done this online before and it's confusing! Any help, please?
Tips for Traveling to Greece?I would like suggestions for a trip to Greece.
Planning a Trip to Europe?What's better for two weeks in Europe: visit one country or take a tour for 3 or 4 countries? I saw some friends' pictures from Barcelona and Italy here http://www.viaggee.com and I want to visit Paris, too.
Finding European Train Travel Information?Where can I find information on taking a train from Pisa, Italy to Nice, France? I will be going one way, one time. Thank you.
Suggestions for Traveling in Europe?I will be traveling in August to Germany, London, Scotland, Pisa, and Nice. Does anyone have any info about tours or any suggestions? Thanks.
Fedex Your LuggageMost airlines are charging for luggage. I have been shipping my things Fedex that is picked up at my door, and at my destination when I arrive.
Booking Trips With Travelzoo.com?Has anyone ever booked any travels with travelzoo.com? They advertise some really good deals but I have never used them. Wondering if you have had good luck?
Keeping Travel Documentation?How long should one keep travel documentation (itineraries, ticket stubs, boarding passes, etc.)?
Inexpensive Family Vacation Ideas?Where can a family of 4 go for a family trip that is very reasonable? We live in PA.
Travel Tips for Gatlinburg, TN?I need a place in Gatlinburg, TN to rent for July 7-12. Does anyone have a recommendation?
Use Ice Bucket Tray to Take Breakfast to Your RoomWhen staying in a hotel/motel room, use the tray under your ice bucket to go pick up breakfast in the hotel lobby. I like to eat in my room, especially pre-makeup and hair for the morning.
Ideas for Fun Family Road Trips?Looking at all this snow outside has me eager to travel. I am looking for kid-friendly road trips that will appeal to adults, too. I have an 8 year old boy. We parents aren't very athletic.
Store Shears in Cork When Traveling Whenever I travel and need to take shears (nail or other), I push the tip of the shears into a wine cork. It stops the point of the shears going through my makeup bag.
Tips for a Weekend Trip to New York?My stepson is visiting from Melbourne AUS and we would like to take him on a weekend trip to New York. We would like to take the train into the city from a closer state and then see the sites.
Visiting the Holy Land?Who would be a good company to travel to the Holy Land with? Maybe a 10-12 day tour. Have anyone been there before? Did you have a great experience? I would like to maybe visit Jordan too. Let me know what you think.
Thinking of Moving to Greeneville Tennessee?My husband and I are tired of Northern Indiana. We are sick of the cold, cold winters and the boring landscape. We want to move to Tennessee. We are looking at a town called Greeneville.
Starting a Camping Group?I love camping, but my husband does not! Is anyone interested in helping me start an East Coast (Md.) Women's Camping Group?
Sightseeing Near Wausau, WI?My husband will be in Wausau, WI the first two weeks of August and I plan to join him for a week. I will have my own rental car and would love tips on the best gardens, dairies, parks, etc. to explore on my own while he is flying.
Driving from Massachusetts to North Carolina?We are moving to North Carolina and will be driving a rental truck and pulling a trailer. We have usually traveled through Maryland and Virginia on US95. Last time we made the trip we had long traffic delays (accidents).
Staying in an Apartment During a Vacation?We are planning to travel to New York and LA from Australia in September. We are a family of 4 adults and 2 children and seeking a apartment for about 7 days. Any ideas? The ones on the internet are very pricey. Any help would be appreciated.
Best International Car Rental Prices?Where can we get the cheapest and best rental on a compact car for 10-15 days of our 30 day stay in Athens, Greece.
Planning a Frugal Trip to Switzerland?My 3 sisters and I would love to send my aging parents to Switzerland. It's been a dream of my mom's for as long as I can remember. We all have limited budgets. Do any of you have any tips for frugal travel to Switzerland?
Free Attractions When Driving from Texas to California?We are about to drive from South Texas to San Diego CA with 3 young girls. We will be on I-10 and on I-25 most of the trip. Are there any free attractions we can stop at to let them move around a little? Are there any nice rest areas on this road?
Places of Interest Near Lake Michigan?My husband and I live in Illinois and we are planning on taking a 4 day trip along Lake Michigan in lower Michigan. Are there any places of interest that we would not want to miss while there? We like antiquing and sightseeing. Thanks for any ideas.
Vacation Ideas in the US for Under $4000
?My husband and I are going to go on vacation around the end of August or beginning of September for 1 to 2 weeks. I was wondering if anyone had any ideas for a good vacation? We live in the Midwest, but we are willing to travel about anywhere in the US.
Booking an All-Inclusive Caribbean Vacation?I am looking for great travel tips on booking an all inclusive Caribbean vacation. Any ideas on how to make it cheaper?
Adding a Bike Rack to a Pop-up Trailer?How do you make a bicycle rack for a pop-up trailer?
Planning a Driving Trip?Starting at New Orleans, LA, driving to the Grand Canyon, to Vegas, to Los Angeles, and then back to New Orleans. Can this be done, with sightseeing, with a 2 week schedule? I want to see and do everything possible. This is actually my honeymoon! Thanks.
Place Denture Tablet in Plastic Bag For TravelingThis helps when I travel. I have dentures and found a way to not pack my soaking tub. In a sandwich zip style plastic bag, I place one denture tablet and sufficient water to cover dentures for soaking while traveling.
Mini Vacations Near Statesville, NC?My husband and I are trying to pick some things to do around Christmas. We have a lot of extra time in December that we would like to plan some day or even two day trips surrounding around Christmas activities. We are looking for anything to do within 5-6 hours of Statesville, NC. We know about McAdenville, but we are trying to find some other places. Any ideas?
Things To Do Near XL Center (Hartford, CT)?I will be attending a concert at the XL Center in Hartford, CT on Nov. 30th. What is there to do in close proximity to the center before the concert (ie. dining, shopping)?
Food to Bring on an Airplane?What would be good to take on a airplane to eat and will go through airport security?
Recommended Las Vegas Shows?We are going to Las Vegas in late November for the first time and would like to take in some shows. I would like to know if anyone could recommend some shows. Do we have to book them before we go or are there usually tickets available?
Pack Vacation Treasures Among Your ClothingWhen we go vacationing out of state, I like to go treasure hunting while I'm there. The way to transport all my little collectibles; I wrap them in my clothes. I keep them in the plastic bags they give me but I separate them and wrap them in my clothes. The clothing protects my treasures and I don't have to take up more trunk space.
Dealing With New Airline Luggage Restrictions?With the airlines limiting the number of bags allowed for checking and carry-on and limiting the pounds of luggage, I am wondering how others are dealing with this problem? How do you take what you need, but not overdo?
What's Fun To Do at Myrtle Beach?What's fun to do in Myrtle Beach? We plan on being there for 5 nights. We've been there before, but I'm looking for something off the beaten path. Also is there anything in Virginia around I-77, that would be fun to do for a couple hours with the family?
Looking For Second Hand Shops In Lakenheath, England?My daughter will soon be moving to Lakenheath, (near Cambridge) England. We were wondering if thrift shops, second hand stores, used book shops etc. are called any thing different there.
Looking For Information On Oshkosh, Wisconsin?Has anyone lived or been to Oshkosh, Wisconsin? What is the area like? Is it a good place to raise a family? What about surrounding area Omro or Neenah?
Inexpensive Summer Travel Ideas?My husband and I are looking for an inexpensive trip in June or July. In Florida it gets so hot that camping probably isn't such a good idea (we originally were planning on meeting another couple in the mountains of NC, but they've backed out on us already). Do you have any suggestions of places to go that aren't super expensive but have fun things to do/see?
Inexpensive, Pet Friendly Weekend Getaway in NJ?I would like to go on a family vacation. Because my dog is a Pug, we really can't fly, or drive for long periods of time. I live in Central NJ and if anyone can give me advice on a weekend getaway (2 to 3 days), that is not too expensive please let me know. It is hard to find pet friendly places that don't cost a arm and a leg!
AirfareWatchdog.com This is a site where you can register and get e-notices when they have a good airfare rates.
All Inclusive Hotel in Cancun, Mexico?What is a good all inclusive hotel in Cancun, Mexico?
Free Accommodations Through CouchsurfingOk, so you are travelling this year, your budget is extremely low! Try www.couchsurfing.com. I host a lot of people with this website and will end up using it myself next time I travel.
Travel Packages from Sydney?Any ideas for cheap luxury packages from Sydney to a really nice beach area for 2 weeks holiday?
Travel Information and Ideas for Angola, IN?We are going for 3 nights to the Pokagon State Park in Angola, IN.
Emergency No Slip Mat for the BathtubJust a very simple suggestion - we stayed at a Hampton Hotel with no anti-skid treads in the tub. Yep, it was slippery.
East Coast Vs West Coast Behavior Differences?What is the difference between people from the East coast and people from the West coast?
Use Sample Sizes For TravelingNow that summer vacation is here, it's a good time to break out your collection of shampoo/lotion and other personal care samples to take with you on your trips. So much easier to pack!
Information about Havre de Grace, MD?We are interested in the Havre de Grace, MD area and would like to hear from people who live there or in the area.
Passports Required For Air Travel To Canada and MexicoI just read an article in the L.A. Times reminding me that if you are going to Canada or Mexico by air, you need a passport now. And what's more - new passports, even renewals are now taking 4 months plus to go through!
Making an Airline Reservation?I have never made an airline reservation before. I need to get a round trip ticket to New York for my 17 year old daughter to attend a ten day seminar at Columbia University. How do I go about this? Since I am inexperienced, I am concerned that I will waste a lot of money. Also, she does not go until June 18th, and I'm wondering when I should make the reservation.
Selling a Vacation Package?What would be the fastest way to try to sell a package that I won from the california lottery american idol 2nd chance drawing? This package includes 2 nights hotel party before the final show on may 23 plus viewing from the kodak theatre.
Great Places to Rent a Cabin?My husband and I have our 20th wedding anniversary coming up. We would like to get away for 4-5 days somewhere here in the United States. We were thinking maybe a cabin or somewhere all inclusive.
Use Free Luggage Tags For MarkingI always take a fistful of the free luggage tags the airlines provide (Ditto the stickers). They are wonderful for identifying all sorts of equipment; musical instrument cases, bags, and the like.
When is it cheapest to book a cruise?What I want to know is how do you know when its the end of the season? My husband and I are planning a cruise the end of this month.
Visit Civil Rights Museum Free In MemphisThe National Civil Rights Museum in downtown Memphis (the historic south main arts district) is free after 3pm on Mondays.
Planning a Trip?Planning a Trip. In July my family is planning to take a trip to Maryland and then to Cooperstown, NY. We are very excited but need some help making this trip as inexpensive as possible.
Assistance For The Elderly on Exotic Trips?How does one get assistance on exotic trips for elderly on walker,
i.e. african safari, machu picchu?
Tipping on a Cruise?My husband and I are budgeting for a cruise to Alaska next year. What is the protocol for tipping? Who do you tip? How much and how frequently? I have heard conflicting information.
E-Ticket Vs. Paper Tickets?Should I pay extra money for paper Airline Tickets? I plan on flying a relative in for the Christmas Holidays. I have always purchased paper tickets, I wonder if I should continue?
Good Places to Go for a Weekend?There are 5 of us girls that all ran around together while in school years ago. We now try to get together each year for a few days just by ourselves. I would like to know if anyone has any ideas of places to go for a weekend.
Amtrak Vacation Tips?Amtrak Vacation Tips. I am looking for advice on an Amtrak vacation for 2 sons and parents. I would like to see the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and Glacier National Park. Any advice is appreciated as I have No Amtrak Experience or National park experience.
Inexpensive Vacation Ideas?I am wondering what can I do for some sort of vacation. I have been working 2 jobs for the last 9 months and school is out. I don't really have any money to spend. I am somewhat handicapped in that I have to have electricity at night so I can't camp. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Protection for You and Your Car on Hot DaysHot weather causes really hot autos because they sit in the sun. Buy a yard of white or light material. Cut it in half, cut one half in half again.
Submit a Travel Guide!ThriftyFun is looking for frugal travel guides for destinations all over the globe. Is your home town a good travel destination? Where do you love to travel? Please take a moment and submit a travel guide. By sharing our travel experiences we can help each other travel for less.
Traveling To Africa?I am 17 and might be traveling to Africa this summer for missionary work. I was wondering if anyone out there had done anything of the sort. I wear contacts and I don't know how that will work when I'm over there, and what key items should bring I when going to Africa.
Timeshare Advice?Does anyone have any suggestions on the best way to use a timeshare, or to sell one?
Ziplock Bags and an Extra Pillow CaseWhen traveling and staying in hotels or motels, remember to pack a couple of snack size zippered plastic bags for used complimentary soaps and bottles of shampoo.
Laguna Beach Travel Tips?My family of 4 (DH, and DD ages 8 and 14, plus me!) is traveling to the Laguna Beach/Irvine area in California in October of this year. We plan on visiting DisneyLand, the Nixon Library, the San Diego Zoo, Hollywood and Balboa Island.
Travelling from Saint Petersburg to Key West?I am currently in Saint Petersburg (Treasure Island) and would like to go to Key West asap. What are my budget options for getting there? I'm told that there is a boat that leaves Ft. Myers Beach to Key West, how would I get to Ft, Myers from my current location?
Luggage Damaged by the Airlines?So you know that airlines will PAY to have your luggage repaired if it is damaged in-flight? You just have to go to customer service - have the damage noted and go to the repair place they refer you to. (A tip from my well-traveled sister.)
Using Laundry Tablets When Traveling?I recently read on a web site about taking laundry tablets with you on a vacation in case you have to wash some things. They are easy to carry and cheaper than buying the little boxes offered at "washing" places, however, I cannot find laundry tablets!
Iowa Vacation Ideas?My husband and I only have two days vacation and wish to Iowa in August or September. Any suggestions for "points of interest" for a fun time on such a short vacation, that won't break the bank?
Wisconsin Vacation Ideas?My husband and I only have two days vacation and wish to Southern Wisconsin in August or September. Any suggestions for "points of interest" for a fun time on such a short vacation, that won't break the bank?
Saint Petersburg, Florida Travel Advice?My family and I are going to Saint Petersburg, Florida on April 7th. I have 4 children ages 5 to 18. Does anyone have any suggestions on where to stay or what to do while we are there. We are arriving at the St. Petersburg airport.
Keeping Facial Soap Case from Smelling Bad?I have been traveling quite a bit lately and keep my facial soap in a plastic soap case and then put in a plastic zip lock bag. After a couple of days, it has a terrible odor. Does anyone have a suggestion for stopping this odor?
Keep Pen Ink From Leaking in Your PurseOne easy way to prevent pen ink from leaking in your purse or briefcase is to store your pens in plastic travel toothbrush holder. Even pens with caps can sometimes break and leak.
Cheap Universal Studios Tickets?I need to find cheap tickets to Universal Studios in Florida. Or does anyone have any other ideas to do with kids in Florida other than the pricey amusement type parks?
Recommended RV Books?My husband and I are interested in becoming full time RVers when he retires in about 4 years. Does anyone have any books on the subject they could recommend? I am trying to watch costs so hate to buy new books only to find out I don't need that information.
Unable To Travel?DH and I have not been able to take a vacation for several years because of financial restraints and doing our share of caring for elderly relatives. I feel that this is having an effect on me. I don't think creatively and I make mistakes. Does anyone have any ideas of how to refresh the brain cells at home?
Last Off the PlaneWhen traveling by plane, make sure you are one of the last off the aircraft, then you have the choice of all those lovely magazines people buy themselves and leave behind!
Save for Your Dream HolidayThink of your dream holiday. Put away in a holiday account a definite amount for the length of time it takes to save the amount you need for your holiday plus extra money for comfort...
Pack for a 2 Week Vacation in a BackpackPut in 3 tank tops, 3 t-shirts, one pair of sandals, one sweater, light raincoat, one dress, one skirt, one pair of jeans and one
pair of Keds.
Write the Date on Travel BrochuresHow many times have you looked at a map or booklet giving information on a particular area that you wish to visit on vacation and wondered how old the information is?
Find New Places for Getaways?I think we all get in a rut and tend to take "mini" vacations to the same places over and over. That generally means it is a place we enjoy, but I am always looking for a new "getaway". I am sure you feel the same.
Trash Bag for the SuitcaseI always toss a clean trash bag first thing into any suitcase I am packing. I use it as a laundry bag or to carry home wet swimsuits and towels. When I unpack, I toss in a clean bag before I store the suitcases.
Use Bonded Travel AgentsUse a travel agent, who's licensed and bonded. Otherwise they could sell your information to someone who could live in your home while you're gone or rob it while you're out of town on vacation.
If It Sounds Too Good to Be True...This goes back to the old saying "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is". We were offered a two day-one night package at a local resort for only $40CAN.
Keeping Cameras Safe While on VacationThis is about keeping your camera safe on vacation. I was walking down the street in a foreign country and had my camera strap around my wrist and the camera in my hand.
Taking Your Own Snacks On AirplanesWhen using our great airlines, for vacation, work related, etc., remember you don't have to pay the high cost of the restaurants or vendors in the airports. Save several dollars by making & taking your own sandwiches, snacks. We've done this several times and no one have ever said anything to us.
Ice Tea for TravelingWhen we travel, we drink iced tea. Buying bottled tea is expensive. We save our empty soda bottles and fill them with tea we make at home. Then, we just throw them in the cooler and we're ready to go, at a fraction of the cost. We also, do this with water.
Pillow Case Laundry BagIf you are taking a trip I suggest taking along an old pillow case to use as a laundry bag.
By Robin
Packing Light For A TripWant to avoid long waits at the luggage counter or worse yet, lost luggage? Try to pack everything into carry on bags. Women can also fit some items into a large handbag. Wear your heaviest clothes; wear layers unless it's too hot.
By joesgirl
AAA for TravelersIf you have someone you love who needs to travel a lot, I would suggest giving them a AAA membership for Christmas. It is very economical and something they may have to use more than once throughout the year. My sister gives her kids and their families memberships each year for Christmas and she often gives this as a gift for weddings. Seems like a very original idea to me!
By Robin
