Budget Vacation Tips for Every Family

February 7, 2020 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on budget vacation tips for every family. Vacation and budget don’t belong in the same sentence — or do they? The truth is, even though Americans spend a collective $1.1 trillion on travel each year, vacations don’t have to completely wreck your budget. While vacationing, you can find low-cost attractions to bringing along entertainment.

 

 

 

budget vacations tips

 

 

 

 

Budget Vacations Tips:

 

Keep Kids Entertained on the Go

Travel itself  plus the sights will keep the kids occupied during the day. As much as travel exhausts parents, kids still need distractions to wind down in the evenings.

Bring along long-forgotten toys from home.  Rediscovering them while on a family trip can do wonders. Packing (or downloading) kid-friendly audiobooks is another simple solution to evening boredom. Bring along paper and pencils for drawing and writing while they listen.

You can also stream your kiddos’ favorite shows and movies from home. Bringing a portable streaming device — which plugs into your laptop or hotel TV means free movies just like at home. With viewing options ranging from television series and movies to streaming music, these devices could be a perfect fit for your next family vacation.

 

Travel in the Off-Season

In the United States, people tend to travel more during the summer.  A Gallup poll confirms July as the most popular travel month. Picking a less popular travel date means lower costs on airline tickets and a less packed flight. According to the experts at the Penny Hoarder, it’s cheaper to fly mid-week, with Sunday and Friday proving the most expensive. Booking between three weeks and four months before your vacation is the ideal window.  Planning farther in advance means higher prices.

 

Skip the Major Attractions

Business Insider confirms that theme park costs in the US range from $60 to $267 per person per day. These amounts aren’t ideal for the average family. Instead of visiting the major theme parks, travel off the beaten path.  Smaller zoos, aquariums, and neighborhood parks may be the highlight of the trip for your kids. Consider libraries and even bookstores for indoor entertainment. Museums also offer educational and cultural experiences for kids of all ages.

Any place that’s novel to your children, or that’s different than what’s available at home, will provide plenty of interest. Plus, if you’re traveling internationally, cultural exposure is a crucial part of the overall experience. If you do visit theme parks, opt for multi-park or multi-day tickets instead of single-entry options. With these packages, per-day costs are lower the more days and locations you visit. You also have the flexibility to step out for naps, snacks, or just to recharge with the kids before diving back in.

 

 

budget vacation tips

 

Live Like a Local

Instead of planning to eat out every leg of your trip, live more like a local. Wherever you are, look for local eateries far away from the touristy areas. If you can, book a hotel or rental home with a kitchenette or, at the very least, a refrigerator and microwave. Packing food from home — preferably non-perishable staples — can save you a lot of money.

Depending on how long you’re staying and how expensive your accommodations are, you might find it’s worth the additional cost of booking a suite with a kitchen. After all, eating out is more expensive than grocery shopping. On the same note, look at the local neighborhood and what’s happening while you’re in town. Community centers often have free events and local businesses sometimes offer discounts on certain days. Doing some research ahead of time will also allow you to get to know your destination better.

Wherever you plan to go on your family vacation, a strict budget doesn’t have to mean a lack of excitement and fun. There’s plenty to see and do without spending a ton of cash, even when you have little ones along for the trip.

 

 

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16 Money Saving Disney World Travel Tips

January 4, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing tips on Disney World travel tips.  Disney World is the Most Magical Place on Earth.  Everyone should visit at least once in their life time.  But, saving enough money to have an enjoyable trip can be a problem.  Moms across America have managed to make the trip and have shared how they save money.

 

Disney World Tips

 

Here’s a few Money Saving Disney World Travel Tips:

 

Planning a Disney Trip – First, arrive at Disney World like a princess.  It starts from boarding the plane to landing.  Let the fun begin.

 

Disney World Military Discount Tickets – If you or your spouse are active or retired military, take advantage of the military discount tickets.   The prices are budget friendly.

 

Free Food at Disney World – Next, this mom shares where to find Disney World snacks and samples.  Check out the list of free food/samples that you can find while visiting the parks.  Saving on snacks can really help out when you’re on a tight budget.

 

Disney Akershua Royal Banquet Hall Breakfast – This mom shares getting free meals on her Dining Plan and tips on dining at Akershua Royal Banquet.  It’s a great for a meal and meeting the princesses.

 

Disney Cruises

 

Camping Tips for Disney – If you are a camper, this post is for you.  This blogger shows you the in, outs and benefits are camping.

 

5 Dining Secrets at Disney – Additionally, this mom shares tips on the Disney Dining Plans and making reservations.

 

Disney at Night – This mom shares tips on visiting Disney at night and things to do while you’re there.

 

5 Things Worth the Splurge at Disney – If you can manage, this blogger shares tips on things that are worth splurging on at Disney World.

 

How to Plan a Disney Trip – This blogger shares tips on planning your trip to Disney World using a Disney Travel Agent.

 

The Minnie Van Service – Did you know that Disney World has a Minnie Van Service?  Yes, they do.  This blogger shares tips on using the service.

 

Disney Tips for Big Families –  Also, if you have a big family this post is worth the read. This blogger shares tips on getting through the parks to purchasing souvenirs.

 

Disney Character Sightings

 

Toddler Favorites at Disney World –  If you have a toddler, this mom shares tips on where to go and what to see at Disney World.

 

Hottest Disney Springs Restaurants – This mom shares tips on the best restaurants at Disney Springs.

 

Disney  Cruise for Adults – This mom should tips on Disney cruises.

 

Disney Resort Hopping – Last, this mom shares tips on Park Hopping.  Check it out if you plan to purchase the Park Hopper.

 

I hope these Disney World tips will help with your budget, give you insight on thinks to do, and great places to eat.

Filed Under: Travel Tips

Purchasing Disney World Military Discount Tickets

December 2, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on Disney World Military Discount Tickets.  It’s a great way to save on park tickets.  The armed forces have partnered with Disney and are now offering Walt Disney World Resort Promotional Theme Park Tickets.  However, the discount is also available at Disneyland.

Armed Forces Salute is the original discount promotion.  The Walt Disney World Resort Promotional Theme Park promotion works the same way.  The promotion is a discount available to military members and retirees.  You will be happy to know that the Disney World Resort Promotion will be available January 1, 2020 through December 18, 2020.  Discount tickets can be used throughout the year.  For example, you can use the tickets 2 days for spring break and 2 days for summer vacation.  The last day for the 2019 promotion is December 19, 2019.

 

 

disney world military discount tips

 

Disney World Military Discount Members Must Be:

  • Current/Retired military members:
    Active
    Reserve
    National Guard
    Coast Guard
    Commissioned Corps
  • 100%Service Disabled
  • Spouses may use their enlisted or retired member’s benefit.  They are not entitled to the discount on their own.
  • Widows are entitled to their spouse’s discount if they haven’t remarried.
  • Foreign Partners stationed at a United States Base are also eligible. However, they must have a permanent US Military issued ID.

 

 

 

disney world discounts

 

The discount includes:

  • 4-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Option for $241 plus tax
  • 5-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Option $257 plus tax
  • 4-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Plus Option $291 plus tax
  • 5-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Plus Option $307 plus

 

Also, you can also purchase the Disney World Memory Maker for an additional $98.00.  This is half of the original $199.99 Memory Maker price.  NOTE:  These prices may change for 2020.  Additionally, the military member may purchase up to 6 tickets not including themselves.

We take advantage of the Disney World Military Discount when we travel to Disney World in December.   This works great for my family.  We divide our time between ESPN Disney World Super Bowl, where my grandson plays, and the Disney World parks.  Also, we don’t stay on the property in December.  I owe a Time Share about 10 minutes away.  So, we rent a car and head to the timeshare.  It has a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and 2 bedrooms with a king size bed, 2 queen beds in the second bedroom, and a queen sofa bed in the living room.   Since we’re splitting our time between 2 destinations, it’s cheaper for us to stay at the timeshare than on Disney properties.

We purchase the 4 day ticket with the park hopper.  However, we didn’t park hop not one day.  We just wanted to head home, get a good night’s sleep, and head to another park the next day.

Military Discount Tickets can be purchased at Shades of Green, your local military base, or at the ticket booths at Disney World.  We purchased our tickets at the Disney World ticket booth.  Otherwise, tickets have to be activated before you can enter the park.  The enlisted or retired member must be present with a military ID to activate the tickets.  Unfortunately, they can’t activate by using the My Disney app either.  So, plan accordingly.

 

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DIY Pine Cone Fire Starters

October 18, 2019 by 1 Comment

Fall is here!  Today, I’m sharing tips on how to make pine cone fire starters.  It’s the perfect time for a roaring fire in the fireplace or fire pit.  Picture yourself sipping a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, making s’mores or roasting hot dogs with the kids, it doesn’t matter.  Just get the fire started.

They’re perfect for camping or a wood burning fire place or stove too.

 

pine cone fire starters

 

 

Next, spend an afternoon searching for pinecones in your backyard or neighborhood’s.  My daughter has more pine cones than she could ever use in her yard, so I fill a basket when I visit.  If you’re not lucky enough to have access to pine cones, you can purchase them.  I used a variety of sizes in this batch.

 


 

You will also need:

 

 

how to start fires

 

 


 

How to Make Pine Cone Fire Starters:

  • Start simmering about 3 inches of water in a small pot.
  • While the water is heating, wrap a piece of wire around the bottom of each pine cone as shown below.   You will be use the wire to dip the pinecones into the wax.  I purchased the 20 gauge galvanized wire.  I prefer that weigh because its heavy enough to use on my wreaths for hanging, but also useful with other crafts.
  • Slowly add a pound of the wax pellets to the pot.  Allow the pellets to melt slowly and completely. Also, I used white pellets.  I like the softness of the white wax.  However, you may prefer yellow.
  • Place the pine cones on a cooling rack after you dip them into the wax.  I lined a cookie sheet with wax paper and placed a cooling rack on the cookie sheet.
  • Allow the wax to harden before placing the pine cones back into the wax.  I dipped each pine cone about 3 or 4 times.

 

The smaller pine cones shown below are from the Dollar General.  They were 12 for a $1.00 in the Christmas section, so I grabbed a few boxes to add to my pine cone stash.  They have strings wrapped around them because they are Christmas tree ornaments.  However,  I just removed the strings before dipping them into the wax.  I used an old spoon to place the smaller pine cones in the wax and to remove them from the pot.  But, you can wrap the wire around them too.

 

 

pine cone crafts

 

 

 

fire starters

 

 

Once the wax hardened, I removed the wire.   I love how the wax varies on each pine cone.  I left some of the pine cones in the heated wax longer than others.  You can get creative and add glitter while the wax is hardening or a fragrance oil to the pine cones. I use fragrance oils because they’re stronger than essential oils.  Peppermint, Snickerdoodle, Cupcake, and Orange are a few of my favorites.

 

fire starters

 

 

 


 


 

 

starting fires in fire places

 

I head to the Smoky Mountains at the end of October each year.  This is the wood burning fire place in the house where I relax for a week.  I’ll be taking this batch of pine cone fire starters to use when I want a roaring fire.  The weather is usually a little chilly, so the fire place is always a welcome feature.  Make a few batches for your next camping trip, backyard fire pit or fireplace.  You may also like:  Sea Shell Embellished Picture Frames.  

 

 

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Home Security Tips While You’re on Vacation

August 5, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel advice on home security tips while on vacation.  A home is regarded by many as their pride and joy. If you’re heading on a family vacation, keeping your property safe and secure is crucial. The last thing you want is to worry about your home while you are on your vacation.

 

 

 

home security tips

 

 

Here a few home security tips before leaving on vacation: 

 

Get a Home Monitoring System

First and foremost, install a home monitoring system in your home.  With so many options to choose from, it’s important to find a system that fits your home. You may want to consider purchasing a wireless security system that can give you 24/7 updates, allowing you to relax and unwind while on vacation.

 

Keep Up Home Maintenance

Whether you employ a gardener to take care of your lawn or hire a pool guy to come out once a week, it’s important to stick to these schedules. Having people you trust enter your property while you are away can deter thieves from breaking into your home.

 

Leave a Key with Friends or Family

If you don’t hire outside help, why not leave a key with a friend or relative? Having one of your nearest and dearest stopping by every day or two can give you peace of mind and ensure that any deliveries you are expecting can be dealt with. To thank them for their trouble, why not bring back a gift from your vacation?

 

Hold Your Newspapers and Mail

A dead giveaway that shows you aren’t home is if your mailbox is stuffed to the brim with yellowing newspapers. Intruders can immediately identify whether you’ve been home recently, so it’s best to contact your newspaper service to stop any deliveries from arriving if you don’t have relatives or friends close by to keep an eye on your house.

 

Get Off Social Media

One of our most important home security tips for those who use social media, it’s important not to advertise that you’re away.  While you may want to update your Facebook friends about your trip, you can never be certain who is and isn’t seeing your posts. Make sure that your address isn’t readily available to anyone who’s viewing your page.  And, ensure you delete any past posts or events that may include your phone number. Once you’re home from vacation, you can post to your hearts content without the worry that an intruder is watching.

 

 

home security tips

Lock Your Valuables Up

Burglars know what they’re doing, so it comes as no surprise that they’ll check your bedroom first for valuables. To keep your treasured possessions safe and secure, why not get a small safe? If you don’t want to splurge on a safe, there are other places you can put your valuables, such as in a bathroom closet or kitchen pantry. If you have any sentimental items or possessions that you know you’ll be worrying about, it’s best to ask a neighbor or relative to look after them while you are on vacation.

 

Install an Outdoor Sensor Light

If any unwelcome visitors try and gain entry to your property, you can stop them in their tracks by installing an outdoor sensor light. Shining a light on the burglar can alert your neighbors too. You should also consider setting up timers for your indoor lights which will give the impression that you are home, helping to deter intruders.

 

Disconnect Your Garage Door

With technology continually advancing, criminals are getting wiser, meaning they have the knowledge and expertise to gain access to your garage door. In some cases, garage doors can be opened by a universal remote, so it’s best to disconnect your garage door before you go on vacation and instead opt for a manual lock.

Advertise Your Security

Having a security system installed will help to deter intruders, so make sure you advertise it too. To do this, you can place stickers next to accessible entry points such as your front and garage doors. Even if you haven’t had chance to implement your security system yet, buying a pack of stickers and giving the impression that they’re working will mean that intruders won’t take the chance.

Going on a family vacation should be full of relaxation and fun. So, implementing our home security tips while you’re away will give you peace of mind.  Now, go ahead and have a relaxing and exciting vacation.

 

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How to Take Memorable Vacation Photos

June 20, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on vacation photos.  When you go on vacation, you make memories that will last a lifetime.  What better way to document those memories than to take great photos?  You can store them in an album, put them on your wall or even give them as gifts to everyone who vacationed with you.

 

 

memorable vacation photos

 

 

 

 

Here’s a few tips on how to take memorable vacation photos:

 

Tell a Story

The most engaging photos will always tell a story. Try and take photos of any key moments so that you can build a narrative of your journey.  For example, take a photograph of your suitcase before you go.  Additionally, take a photograph of the plane or train you are travelling on.  Furthermore, when  you have reached your destination take a photo.  This will tell a story and it will also show how you got from point A to point B.

 

Vacation Photos

 

Take your Camera Everywhere

Always have a camera within arm’s reach. It doesn’t matter if you use the camera on your smartphone, the goal is to capture the moments.  It may also be worth taking some kind of waterproof carry case with you.  A down pour could occur any moment. If you are taking your smartphone with you then check out this link: https://setapp.com/how-to/set-up-icloud-mail-on-your-mac.  It givens information on how you can save your photos to the cloud or you can email them to yourself instead.

 

Timer

If you are traveling with a group then you will know how annoying it can be to always have one person left out of the vacation photos.  If you want to get around this dilemma, use a selfie stick.  Or, put your camera on a timer.  Either options will allow everyone to be in the same shot and you don’t have to worry about leaving anyone out. If you are not sure how long to set the timer for, then 10 seconds is usually a great starting point. This gives everyone the chance to get in the right pose, and it also stops you from having to rush too much.

 

Scenic Shots

The last thing that you want to do is fill your vacation album with a ton of scenic photos. Nobody wants to see a huge range of photos that are all mediocre. If you want to avoid this, then only take a photo when you see a striking landscape. You might also want to get other people in front of the camera too so that you can get the ultimate travel photo.

 

memorable vacation photos

Local Wildlife

If you are vacationing somewhere that has super unique wildlife, then you need to bring the right gear with you.  A powerful zoom function will go a long way.  It will help you capture birds, and other wildlife that you may come across. This can help make memorable vacation photos.

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Family Vacations in New York City

May 28, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Today, we’re sharing travel tips on vacations in New York City.   A trip to New York City might bring up thoughts of a romantic weekend or a massive Christmas shopping trips.  It might not be the first place that you think of when it comes to a family holiday. You might imagine busy streets, long queues, expensive restaurants and fancy hotels.  Certainly not the kind of place you’d go to with young children. But, these romantic breaks and shopping trips aren’t all that New York has to offer.

 

vacation in New York City

 

A vacation in New York City could be perfect. The city is packed with museums, playgrounds, parks, large toy shops and other brilliant family-friendly attractions. Your kids will love it, you’ll all get a chance to bond, and you might even be able to fit in some more grown-up excursions while you are there.

 

Family Vacations in New York City

 

Find the Right Hotel

Choosing the right hotel is essential if you want a successful, safe, fun and stress-free family trip. The hotel that you choose should have large rooms just in case you need to add extra beds or cribs.  Furthermore, it should cater to families with facilities and restaurants serving a range of food.  You might also want to find somewhere close to the attractions that you would like to see during your visit.  You don’t want to spend time doing too much walking or on public transport with tired and grumpy kids.

 

Prepare for Your Journey

If you can, a road trip might be ideal.  For example, it’s more comfortable for the kids, you can stop whenever you along the way, and you’ll have access to your own vehicle for the duration of your trip.

Whether you are flying, driving or taking the train, make sure you pack everything that you need.  This includes snacks, drinks, and plenty to keep your kids entertained for the journey.

 

 

vacation in New York City

 

 

Plan Some Events

There is absolutely loads to do in New York.  Some of it is suitable for children and young families, and some isn’t. If you want to be able to make the most of your trip and see as much as possible, it’s a good idea to plan your days.  Start looking online for the best child-friendly New York attractions, NYC show tickets that your kids might enjoy, and the best family-friendly eateries before you travel.

 

Visit at the Right Time

If you are traveling with children, it’s always a good idea to avoid visiting at the busiest times when there is likely to be long queues and crowded streets. You might also want to avoid high summer when the weather can be very hot, and prices inflated. Visiting between January and March, or September and November can be wise.

 

 

vacation in New York City

 

 

Study a Map

New York is quite easy to navigate. It is built in logical blocks, making it easy to walk around and find your way. But, it’s also absolutely massive. So, if you don’t want to spend time lost and confused, study maps before you leave to help you to get your bearings.

A vacation in New York City can be a memorable experience for you and your family.  Do your homework and check what places that you and your family would enjoy.

 

Filed Under: Travel Tips, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: , , ,

What to Pack for Disney World Parks

April 28, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on what to pack for a trip to Disney World.  We spent a week in Orlando last December for my grandson’s ESPN Wide Word of Sports Disney football champion game.  We decided to hang out at Disney for a few days while we were there.  Fortunately, we’ll be returning December 2019. The weather was perfect for hanging out in the parks.   The last time we traveled to Disney, it was in August.  Never, ever again.  I simply can’t take that kind of heat unless I can wade into the ocean.  I’m adopting December.

First, I recommend carrying a backpack.  I stick my backpack in my luggage, and pack it when we’re heading to the park.  Here are a few items that I find to be essentials when heading out.  Especially, if you have kids:

 

Disney Tips

Poncho – You never know when you will encounter a shower or pouring down rain.  Luckily, we weren’t at the parks when we encountered pouring rain for hours.  This is when card or board games come in handy.  I grabbed a few at the Dollar Tree.  It’s easier than trying to carry raincoats for the kids.

Sunscreen – Even though it’s cloudy you should still protect your skin.  I apply a layer before we head out to the park and once again if the sun becomes hot.

Cooling Towel – A friend of mine gave me a cooling towel to use when I’m working in my garden.  I pack mine when I’m heading to the beach or an amusement park.  Disney was no exception.  I pulled it out a few times to cool off and get refreshed.  You can moisten it in the ladies room with cold water.  It is truly a treat if the weather is hot.  It’s great for cooling the kids down too.

Hand Sanitizer – You can never have too much hand sanitizer.  It’s great after touching the rides, handles or other areas utilized by people in the area.  If the kids want a treat or drink, I make them use the hand sanitizer.  If we have reservations to dine, I pass the hand sanitizer or head to the restroom to wash our hands.

Water Bottles – Head to the Dollar Tree and pick up a few Disney themed water bottles.  I fill ours with bottled water before he head to the park.  Most vendors will give you free water and ice if you ask.

 


 

Phone Charger – We found charging areas throughout the park.  So, don’t forget your charger.  Especially, if you use your phone to take pictures.  Most importantly, you may need it for emergency calls or to check your emails.

Snacks – Eating in the park can get expensive.  So, I carry snacks to help off-set the costs of the food expense in the park.  Sometimes the kids just need a little break and only want a juice box or peanut butter crackers.  They want to spend their time hunting Disney Characters or getting on the rides.  So grab a few packs of crackers and small juice boxes to add to your backpack.

Disney Itinerary – If you have a meal plan and have made reservations at various restaurants print out your itinerary or make sure you access the My Disney app.  You can check out where you’re supposed to be and when.

 

Disney World Tips

Aleve or Tylenol – I have a tendency to get a head-ache from the sun at times.  Aleve will usually take care of the problem for me.  It’s also great for back-aches.  Kid’s Tylenol is perfect for headaches or aches and pains too.

Band Aids – Great for knee scrapes or other accidents.

Wipes – I always carry a travel pack of hand wipes.  They’re great for wiping off hands along your journey in the park too.

Camera Battery Charger –  Be sure to charge your camera battery before you leave for the park or bring your charger with you.  There’s nothing worst than wanting to capturing a moment, and your batter dies.

 

Last, my list on what to pack for Disney World is not all inclusive.  However, it’s a great start.  You may also like Roll Out the Red Carpet When Planning a Disney Trip

 

 

Filed Under: Travel Tips, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: , ,

Things to Do in the Blue Ridge Mountains

March 31, 2019 by
Today, I’m sharing travel tips on things to do in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  First, have you seen the fall foliage when it’s in peak on the Blue Ridge Mountains?  These are the mountains that John Denver sang about.  Fortunately, I live near the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River.  
Furthermore, the picture below is about a mile down the road from me.  I pass it when I’m headed to the grocery store.  I decided to stop yesterday and snap a few pictures.  They are boasting brilliant colors in the background of the apple orchard.  The apple trees are loaded with crisp apples to be used in fall dishes.   
Blue Ridge Mountains

Additionally, week-end drives are a must for me during this time of year.  It requires me to unplug for a minute and it is so worth it.  Seeing this kind of beauty warms my heart and gives me a new found appreciation for the beauty that surrounds me.  It is truly an incredible and breathtaking view that brings peace to my soul.   I have learned to appreciate it, and now sit for a few minutes just to absorb all that is being offered to me.  Use God’s beauty to feed your souls.  Furthermore, learn to stop and smell the roses.   

As I was taking pictures, I wondered if those passing by noticed the beauty that I was inhaling.  It’s so imperative to not take things for granted.  God wants us to enjoy his creations.  Fortunately, I learned that lesson over the years.  I have learned to slow down and enjoy the small things in life.

Here’s a list of things to do in the Blue Ridge Mountains:  

 

Wineries – The Blue Ridge Mountains boasts incredible wineries from West Virginia to North Carolina.

Floyd’s Country Store –  Known for its Friday night Blue Grass Jamborees and lunch counter.  If you’re into Blue Grass music and a little Two Stepping, check it out.

Gearhart’s Chocolates – Gearhart’s Chocolate is located in Charlottesville, VA.  An ex-Marine started the chocolate company.  They offer mouth watering fine chocolates to customers near and far.

George Washington’s Ferry Farm – Perfect for a family outing and history lesson for the kids. Visitors can explore the 80 acres that the farm sits on.  They can walk down the old ferry road, enjoy the hiking trails, and watch for birds in the Wild Meadow located on the farm.

Jordon Hollow Stables –  Jordon Hollow Stables offers view of the Blue Ridge Mountains on shaded riding trails.  The adventure also offers views of wildlife on the property.

Monticello – Visit the home and grounds of Thomas Jefferson.  Located in beautiful Charlottesville, VA.

 

 

white water rafting

 

 

Shenandoah River Outfitters  – Finally, you can enjoy canoeing, tubing, and white water rafting on the Shenandoah River.  If the weather is too chilly, enjoy the view of the Blue Ridge Mountains while enjoying a luscious steak cooked over a campfire.  Rent a cabin for a week-end, and extend your view of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains.

 

Finally, you may like Transitional Pieces from Summer to Fall for Every Woman.
  

Filed Under: Travel Tips, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: , , ,

8 Household Items to Use as Packing Hacks

July 29, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips and travel packing hacks that you can find in your home.  Are you an unorganized travel packer?  Do you wish you had taken items to help with wet items or things that could spill on your return trip?   If so, you will find our travel packing hacks useful.  They’re inexpensive, but great travel accessories.  

 

 

 

packing hacks

Here a few travel packing hacks that you have in your home:

 

Grocery Bags – The first item that I recommend using in your packing hacks is plastic grocery bags. They are great for storing a wet loofah and shower gel on the morning that you will be returning from vacation or your business trip.

Also, they’re also perfect for swim wear that you may have used the night before or housing your shoes.   Grocery bags are great to hold sand for your umbrella or tent on the beach too.

Hand Towels – Next, hand towels are great for packing curling and/or flat irons.  I have had to use one or the other before heading to the airport for my return trip.  Wrapping a warm iron in the towel and placing it in my bag rids me of dealing with a hot/warm iron worries.

Gallon Freezer Baggies – Another household item to use in your packing hacks is gallon freezer baggies.  I pack my body lotion, makeup brushes, laundry detergent and other toiletries in baggies. They are perfect for capturing spills and keeping things organized.

Sandwich Bags – So, who says sandwich bags are just for sandwiches.  They’re great for packing bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings etc.

Jewelry Boxes – I save my jewelry boxes to store my earrings when I travel.  I love the ones that have the cotton piece in them.  They hold my earrings perfectly.

Newspaper – Additionally, I recommend using newspaper as one of your packing hacks.  I use newspaper or the paper from my hand bags to stuff my hats.  It’s a perfect way to keep your hat from getting crushed during the journey.

Bubble Wrap – I love burning candles or using a diffuser.  I use bubble wrap to keep my candle and diffuser from breaking on the journey.  It’s also great to wrap breakables that I purchase on my trip.

Kitchen Size Garbage Bag –  Last, kitchen size garbage bags are perfect for storing dirty laundry.  When I travel, I try to wash my laundry before I return.  However, I do have dirty laundry from the night before I return.  I keep empty baggies, grocery bags and kitchen size garbage bags in the bottom of my bags or luggage.

So, make sure you have a stash of packing hacks on hand.  You’ll be a frugal, professional packer in no time.  You may also like:  9 Items You Should Have in Your Travel Carry On.

 

 

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