Family gatherings can either be eagerly awaited events of the year or complete disasters – it all depends on who in the family you ask. Some might relish the connection with a long-lost cousin or cherish stories from a great-grandfather’s battle days, while others might try to sidestep the aunt who has a habit of using her spit to style your hair. Regardless of the circumstances, family get-togethers can oscillate between being enjoyable and becoming exorbitantly expensive.
Arranging accommodations, meals, and entertainment for loved ones from different regions can be quite heavy on the pocket. Here are some tips on minimizing your expenses during a summer family reunion.
RENT A HOUSE
Obtaining cost-free accommodation is the best possible way to save on family reunions, yet it’s uncommon to find people who possess homes large enough to host big groups. Ideally, it would be perfect if a family member could provide lodging for the reunion, but that is not often feasible.
An economical alternative would be to rent a spacious beach house rather than booking separate hotel rooms for each family. Contributing collectively can substantially decrease housing expenses and allow booking a space amply sized for the entire clan.
Outdoor locations like beaches or mountains are excellent choices, and if you’re up for a little adventure, a camping trip in a state park can also be considered. These options not only yield unforgettable experiences but also offer freedom from being cooped up with family in a house for a weekend.
PLAN MEALS
Dining out can burn a hole in your pocket and arranging a restaurant that can cater for a large group can be difficult. Allot different meals to each family group to share costs. For instance, family A could take responsibility for breakfast on the first day, lunch the next, the following day’s dinner, etc.
This approach reduces food expenses and distributes the workload evenly. You could also consider grocery shopping from a nearby store and preparing homely meals if you’ve rented a house.
FREE ENTERTAINMENT
There are countless ways to engage families without spending a dime. Opt for free recreational activities before moving on to paid ones.
Indoor games like charades, Bingo, Pictionary, card games, Scrabble, and other board games can be played indoors while outdoor games like apple bobbing, bocce ball, sack races, limbo, horseshoes, badminton, and obstacle courses can be conducted outside during the day.
These games not only promise picture-worthy moments but also foster family bonding, which is the essence of family reunions.
GROUP BOOKINGS
It’s always a good idea to inquire about group rates if everything else seems too expensive, as large groups often get discounted pricing when booking in bulk.
Family reunions can be a wonderful way to reconnect with relatives scattered across the country. But costs should never be a barrier that separates family members. What money-saving methods have you followed in the past for a summer family reunion? Which activities have you enjoyed the most with your family?
