Family vacations provide a way to enjoy fun adventures and a way to bond and connect with your loved ones. While there are many benefits of traveling together, however, family vacations can easily become expensive if they're not carefully planned out. Creating a budget will allow you to reap the rewards without going into debt.

Whether you're dreaming of a small vacation or a large one, you'll need to consider a few key factors when you're planning your budget. Try these tips:

• Set a maximum on overall spending: A maximum will help you filter all the other vacation decisions you need to make. You can base your maximum amount on your yearly income, your monthly budget or how much you have saved up already.
• Pick a destination and a place to stay: Once you know how much you want to spend, you can begin narrowing down accommodations. You might even want to consider staying somewhere that offers stay and play packages, like the Warehouse Hotel. That way, you'll have dining, amenity and activity options nearby at your hotel as well as in the city.
• Add in extra expenses: Don't forget about all the extra expenses involved with traveling. Be sure to plan and budget for extras like food, rental vehicles, gas, entertainment, clothing, and pet sitting.
• Consider planning ahead: Now that you're budgeting, you may find that it's an ideal time to plan ahead for your next vacation. Setting aside a specific monthly amount or creating a vacation savings plan will make future trips simple and stress-free.

Create a Daily Spending Allowance

After your main budget is complete, it's a good idea to create a daily spending allowance. One way to make sure you stay within that budget is to have the allowance separated and set aside in cash for each day. Paying with limited cash instead of using a credit card will allow you to be more accurate and visually see how much you're spending. If you decide to use a credit card or pay online, be sure to add up and track your daily amounts.

Think Outside the Box

Of course, there are always alternative ways you can save some extra money on family vacations. With a little imagination, you have almost endless options. How about playing "tourist" for the day and checking out all the state parks or attractions you never visited before? What about camping and spending time in the great outdoors? Some other tips for making family vacations more affordable follow:

• Book flights mid-week.
• Take advantage of deals and coupons.
• Consider traveling "off-season."
• Cook your meals in your hotel room instead of eating out.

With a little preparation and budget planning, your family will be able to enjoy vacations together and make great memories without breaking the bank. Book your stay at the Warehouse Hotel for an unforgettable vacation.