This is the next interview in a series I’ll be posting from time to time with various other travelers and budget savvy individuals. If you’re interested in sharing your story with me, or know of someone who would be great for me to talk to, let me know!
My mom is the person I have to thank for being infected with this crazy travel blog. She orchestrated all our family travels growing up and made sure that there were a LOT of trips! So of course I thought it was only right to get some of her expertise on my blog as well 🙂
About Paula
Been in Massachusetts since I was 12 years old. I like to play soccer, read, travel and plan trips. I’m a freelance reporter so that gives me time to do the things I enjoy like researching places I’ve never been.
Where did your love of travel come from?
I grew up in a military family where my dad took us on vacations that involved skiing in foreign countries or taking cruises in foreign countries. It wasn’t until I set off with a husband and three kids in a minivan to explore this country that I really saw how much there was to see. And it was fun to do it with our family.
What has been your top travel adventure so far?
Tough one. I really like Utah and all the national parks there because it looks so different from East coast stuff. Last year we did Washington and Oregon and that was beautiful too.
How would you describe your travel style?
Finding a place I want to go and then looking for ways to visit in the cheapest way possible!
What is your craziest travel story?
I don’t think I can pick one, each trip has had its own fun and craziness associated with it. Some would call us crazy for spending 4 weeks driving coast to coast in a minivan with our three kids but we all had a blast.
What are your top tips for saving money while traveling?
Play the credit card games. There are so many that have miles for free airfares or points for free hotels but just make sure to pay off the credit card in full each month. Many hotels now offer breakfast so buy some lunch fixings wherever you go and you’ll only have to pay for dinner. If you’re renting a car, check out the prices early early in the morning you are getting ready to leave because chances are you can find a deal to save you some money if you book last minute; I saved $150 once by canceling a car reservation and booking a new one at 4:30 a.m. before we left for the airport. Booking ahead on sites like Rental Car Momma means there’s free cancellation.
What is the biggest challenge when it comes to travel or planning for a trip?
Trying to figure out where I want to go. We’ve been to all 50 states as a family, over half of the states twice and I’m just amazed at how much is out there that I still haven’t seen.
How are you able to prioritize traveling?
You consciously have to make it a priority and make it a part of life just like working, paying bills, taking care of your health, etc. I think people need to choose it as a priority. It doesn’t have to be a huge trip, there is usually plenty to see within short drives of where you live. Once we are back from a trip I’m usually always dreaming of where I’d like to go next.
What advice do you have for those wanting to travel, but a bit short on money?
Use all that’s at your fingertips to make it happen. Save money toward a trip, use the loyalty programs out there to get free hotels or flights, read things like this blog, and read things on travel websites that have suggestions. Couch surf if you are willing to have people stay in your home so you don’t have to pay for hotel rooms. Or camp; it’s very inexpensive. You’d be surprised how affordable a trip can be. Call me, I’ll help you plan a trip!
How do you save money for travel?
Each paycheck put a little bit of money aside, $50, $100 or $200. It adds up and not eating out as much, going to the movies, or buying those new clothes is worth it for an adventure away somewhere.
What’s your advice for family travel?
Little kids, leave early in the morning, 4:30 or 5:00 a.m., so the kids can still sleep a little in the car. Then stop at 8:00, change out of their pjs and have breakfast. End the day early around 4:00 and stay at a place with a pool so the kids can have fun. Older kids, plan fun for them and not just museums, shopping, and stuff like that. On one trip I planned a day specifically around each kid’s interest and that was a hit.
What have you found most helpful in planning your trips?
I like the website Trip Advisor for ideas and recommendations as well as AAA or Road Trippers for route planning. Google is my friend when I want to find more information about places; the internet is a wonderful thing.
Where’s your next trip going to be?
Western Canada. I’ve always wanted to drive the Icefields Parkway and visit Banff National Park in Alberta.
If you could have your dream destination trip, where would you go?
Australia! I would so love to spend a month there and see all the wildlife and natural beauty.
Final words of wisdom?
Don’t say someday you’ll travel, do it now, even it it’s day trips here or there. Taking a vacation is important, physically, emotionally and spiritually. It doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, just get out there and see the amazing things waiting for you.
Fire Round the World 