Taking small kids to London can be an expensive day out. Taking them to the biggest attractions, shows, and entertainment venues can really take a hit on your wallet. However, equally, you don’t want them to miss out on everything that this ancient city has to offer. So, if you want to give your kids a vacation to remember, here are some ways to ensure they see the city at the best without breaking your bank.
Make your money count
If you want to maximize your budget while in London, the easiest way to do this is save some money for the biggest and best sites. Asking your kids what they want to see in London will also help you gain a sense of what you should be prioritizing in terms of paid exhibitions. Obviously, places such as the Tower of London will be ticketed, as will some parts of the Natural History Museum. However, even some of the biggest attractions have free exhibits – the Natural History Museum is largely free. They may also want to stand on London Bridge – also an entirely free attraction.
Enjoy interactive exhibits
While some kids are inquisitive and patient enough to go to museums where you are required to stop and read, some children benefit from interactive or immersive experiences. London’s Planetarium is just one example of this; it’s not only educational but perfect for kids who want to expand their imagination. Museums such as the National Maritime Museum specialize in entertaining children and have plenty of hands-on exhibits.
Picnic or get it to go
Picnics are one of the most cost-effective ways of enjoying a meal in London. Packing sandwiches and a drink before you head out could save you plenty of money on restaurant meals. Alternatively, ordering a noodle box from nedsnoodlebar.com will give you the special feeling of a meal you didn’t have to make, without having to pay the cost of a sit-down meal.
Just in case
Walking around with children all day can be incredibly tiring – both for you and them. Packing useful items in advance will not only prevent you from having to buy them while you’re hitting the pavements, but it will also make your day much easier. Here are a few items to pack to save you time and money:
- Reusable water bottles: staying hydrated all day is important. Packing water bottles that you can re-fill at venues at the hotel will cut the cost of constantly buying plastic equivalents.
- Raincoats and umbrellas: while Britain does enjoy warm summers, let’s face it, it could still rain. Umbrellas are incredibly expensive to purchase new, so packing them will save plenty.
- First-Aid kit: plasters, painkillers and antiseptic wipes are all safe and useful to keep on the go.
Maximizing your budget with kids isn’t always easy. You will need to stay fed, hydrated and entertained for the whole day, which will always come at a price in a major city. Finding smart alternatives and packing a bag before you go will help you to make the most of what’s in your wallet while keeping everyone happy.
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