Summer Vacation on a Budget
Being a single parent can be challenging, especially when it comes to planning a vacation. With single parents already feeling pressures of increased living expenses on their own, the stress of summer can be overwhelming. However, with some creativity and careful budgeting, it is possible to enjoy affordable holidays that create lasting memories. There are affordable vacation options available that can provide a much-needed break for single parents and their children. In this article, we will explore some of these options and discuss how single parents can make the most of their vacation time without breaking the bank. Your children will go back to school with stories to share.
Camping Trip
Benefits of camping
Provides an opportunity to connect with nature
Allows for quality family time
Affordable accommodation options
Engages children in outdoor activities
Tips for planning a camping trip
Research affordable camping sites (you can bring your own equipment but if you don’t have camping equipment or a car you can stay in an equipped campsite and even take a bus for $10 from Calgary and connect from Banff to the campground with Roam Transit.
Pack essential camping gear
Plan meals in advance to save on food expenses
Engage children in planning and setting up the campsite
Share the site with another single parent and children, saving the costs
Staycation
Benefits of a staycation
Eliminates travel expenses
Allows for relaxation and rejuvenation
Provides an opportunity to explore local attractions
Can be customized to suit your budget and preferences
Calgary offers many free events throughout the summer months
Discover outdoor parks
Experience floating down the river, you can even share a float with another single parent family, sharing the cost
Tips for planning a staycation
Research local attractions and events
Create a schedule of activities for each day
Look for discounted or free admission to attractions
Take advantage of local parks and recreational areas
Road Trips
Benefits of a road trip
Flexibility to explore multiple destinations
Allows for bonding and quality time
Can be more cost-effective than air travel
Provides an opportunity for adventure and exploration
Sharing the cost of gas with another single parent, leaving more money for ice cream
Tips for planning a road trip
Plan a route that includes affordable accommodations and attractions
Pack snacks and meals to save on dining expenses
Create a playlist of favorite songs and audiobooks for entertainment
Have a backup plan in case of unexpected detours or delays
Go to the Tourist information booth and get free maps and brochures you can look at with your children.
A Daytrip to Banff and Canmore without a car
Canmore to Banff by Bus: If your travels have already taken you to Canmore, you can park in town and take Roam Transit Route 3 to get from Canmore into Banff for only $2.00.
Canmore to Banff by Bike: Take the scenic route and travel from Canmore to Banff on the Banff Legacy Trail for a 2-3 hour ride through the mountains.
Get to Banff for $10
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to Banff is the On-It Transit service. Buses run a direct route from Calgary to Banff and fare is only $10 each way, so you can create a schedule that suits your individual plans. The shuttle runs during weekends and holidays from May to September.
Buses depart from Downtown Calgary (205 9 Avenue SE), the Crowfoot LRT Station (141 Crowfoot Way NW), and the Somerset-Bridlewood LRT Station (Shawville Way SE). Buses depart Banff on Elk Street (304 Elk Street). Tickets go on sale three weeks in advance of your departure and it is recommended to book your trip early.
Explore Banff without a Car
There are plenty of things to do in the Town of Banff and ways to explore Banff National Park without a vehicle. Banff is very walkable, you can spend the whole day exploring on foot.
To explore Banff National Park, Roam Transit offers both local and regional bus services in the area. Roam Transit travels throughout the Town of Banff, as well as Canmore and Lake Minnewanka, with one way adult fares for $2.00 or purchase a one day pass for $5.00.
Parks Canada Shuttles offers daily service from the Banff train station to Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake, for between $5.00 and $10.00, round trip.
Checkout this website with option here.
Conclusion
Planning affordable holidays as a single parent doesn't have to be overwhelming. By considering these ideas and tips, you can create memorable experiences for you and your children without breaking the bank. Remember, the most important aspect of any holiday is the time spent together and the memories created.
