How to stay within budget when travelling with kids

Train trips are always fun with the little man

In Mr A's three years we have already been lucky enough to do a few adventures, some short city breaks and others a week away in a rural cottage or camping at a festival and travelling with a toddler is an adventure in itself and we have learnt a lot along the way. Being savvy travellers anyway, especially when I managed to stretch £1500 into pretty much 2 years on the road I thought I would put some key tips to the test when it came to travelling with Children.

Mr A and I having some high speed train fun

Of course now it's slightly different not only because we have a child but because we are no longer travelling as individuals but as a family and couple. I am pretty happy to stay in backpackers or couch surfing (personally have had AMAZING experiences doing this) while John prefers more comforts and luxury but we have to be realistic and come to a middle ground that works for both of us and our son.

Us outside Raglan Castle during a trip to Mid-Wales

So here are out top tips

1. Research Accommodation - We have stayed in some amazing hotels in cities but we never spend more than £100 a night for all of us, this does not mean however we go for low end budget, oh no, for example when we stayed in Z Hotels right in the heart of London Soho, we had a small but stylish room in an equally chic boutique hotel for around £90 and by researching reviews on places like trip advisor I was pretty confident of what to expect and it was perfect for a quick night away. The basis of this is ALWAYS research hotels and check out various reviews, look for customers photos, this way you have a clear idea of what your getting yourself into and making sure your not spending money on a dive, this works equally well for backpackers too.

Me chilling in the courtyard at Hotel Z

2. Find Free Sights - every city has an array of free sights and activities and it's always worth making a list of these before you leave. We always try and make a trip to an outdoor space, like a park to run off some steam and enjoy the outdoors and most destinations have lovely open spaces, especially in Europe, that are very inspiring and free.

3. Know the Cost - If you are planning to go to vista sights and attractions that have an admission charge it's a good idea to know exactly what it's going to cost you before going so your not heading for any nasty surprises. London does 2 for 1 on may popular attractions for those who travel to the city on the train and in Europe there are often free days at museums once a month.

Mr A enjoying some free creative fun at Wychwood Festival

4. Always Carry Water - buying drinks out and about can become very expensive and unnecessary especially when carrying a bottle of water on you at all times mean's you can stay hydrated on the go. In hotels where the water is safe to drink or at designated water fountains work as perfect places for filling up your bottle, otherwise picking up a few from a local supermarket still always works out cheaper and when children get thirsty they get thirsty.

5. Always Carry a quick bite - This really will save you money! If your staying in a hotel with breakfast make sure you eat enough to feel full (don't stuff yourself but be comfortable) than carry around quick snacks which will get you too lunchtime without having to stop and pick something up. We usually always have no-perishables on us such as dried fruit, nuts, naked bars and fruit pots, most of which are child friendly and it's great to be able to sit down in a park and pull out a cereal bar and some fruit, re-energise and enjoy the moment.

Enjoying a lovely winter walk on our week break in rural Wales