Budget-Friendly Family Vacations: How to Travel with Kids on a Budget

With rising prices on just about everything, from groceries to gas—many families are wondering how to take a break without breaking the bank. The good news? A memorable family vacation doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re looking for a quick Toronto staycation or a road trip across Ontario, there are plenty of ways to enjoy quality time together on a budget.

If you’re searching for budget-friendly family vacation ideas in Ontario or tips on traveling with kids without spending a fortune, this post is for you.

1. Rethink the Word “Vacation”

Vacations don’t have to mean international flights or luxury resorts. Sometimes the best trips are simple, close to home, and all about quality time. By changing your mindset, you can turn a quick weekend away into a meaningful memory.

2. Rediscover Your City with a Staycation

Looking for affordable family activities in Toronto? A local staycation is a great way to explore your city with fresh eyes—without the cost of flights or long travel days. A short 1–3 night stay at a family-friendly hotel can offer a much-needed reset for everyone.

Here are a few Toronto hotels offering family staycation packages:

• The Westin Harbour Castle – Waterfront views, indoor pool access, and seasonal family packages that include activity kits and late checkout.

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto – Spacious suites and packages that may include breakfast and discounted parking, right near the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Rogers Centre.

• Chelsea Hotel Toronto – Known for its Family Fun Zone, which includes a waterslide, Kid Centre, and teen lounge. Their family staycation deals often include attraction passes and free meals for kids.

• Hotel X Toronto – A luxury stay with family perks like rooftop movie nights, pool access, and on-site sports facilities.

Search Tip: Try looking for “Toronto hotel deals for families” or “kid-friendly hotels in Toronto with pool” for the latest offers.

3. Road Trip Within Ontario

Ontario is home to countless affordable family resorts and scenic destinations that don’t require air travel. A road trip gives you flexibility, lowers transportation costs, and turns travel into part of the fun.

Some great family-friendly vacation spots in Ontario include:

• Blue Mountain Village – A personal favourite is great for summer hiking, gondola rides, fun kids activities, beach days, and family-friendly dining. Off-season rates make it especially affordable. Also "Play All Day" passes give you unlimited access to most activities all day for one price - giving you the option to do a lot for less (especially if you purchase in advance online).

• Fern Resort (Orillia) – A pricier option but it is an all-inclusive resort which means all meals, activities and accommodations are included so no need to spend more once you arrive.

• Elmhirst’s Resort (Rice Lake) – Cottages with kitchens, lakefront activities, and plenty of space for family time. You can pack your own groceries cook and BBQ lakeside, and enjoy the great outdoors with your family. Cottages are a great option for solo family trips but also great for travelling with another family and splitting the space and the cost!

• Provincial Parks – Perfect for camping or booking a yurt or a cabin. The cabins and yurts are extremely budget friendly and full of adventure. They are popular so booking ahead to get your preferred dates is definitely recommended.
  

4. Consider a Cross-Canada Road Trip

Looking to go further while still avoiding flights? Try a family road trip to another province. Destinations like Quebec, New Brunswick, or Prince Edward Island are full of family fun and can still be budget-friendly.

Pack your car with road trip games, healthy snacks, and a few favorite toys, and you’ve got yourself a full-on Canadian family road trip adventure—on a budget.

5. Tips for Saving Money on Budget Friendly Family Vacations

Whether you’re planning a cheap family vacation in Canada or a weekend staycation in Toronto, here are some ways to save:

Book early – Hotels and resorts often offer early-bird discounts.

Travel mid-week – Hotel stays are often cheaper Sunday through Thursday.

Choose suites with kitchens – Preparing simple meals can drastically reduce your food budget.

Look for hotel packages that include meals – Breakfast included = one less meal to pay for.

Avoid flying – Driving instead of flying saves hundreds of dollars (especially for families of 3+).

Bundle attraction passes – Some hotels include tickets to local attractions or offer discounts for multiple-night stays.

Use loyalty programs and rewards – Hotel points, credit card rewards, or gas points can all be put to good use.

Bring your own snacks and entertainment – Avoid overpriced treats and impulse purchases.

Making Memories on a Budget

Family travel doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. By thinking creatively and planning ahead, you can still enjoy incredible moments together—even on a budget.

Whether it’s a Toronto family staycation, a road trip through Ontario’s best family resorts, or a cross-province adventure, the memories you create will outlast the price tag.

You deserve a break—and your budget doesn’t have to stand in the way.