Summertime is a great time for a family vacation! For years, friends have asked me to share my cheap travel secrets, so I have decided to finally spill some of my favorite tips.

The biggest tip I tell people to improve their vacations is to go where the crowds aren’t. For example, if you’re thinking about going to the Grand Canyon, it’s great, but it is CROWDED! There are parts where you can’t even drive your car because of the crowds—you have to take a bus. Instead, consider going to a national park that’s not as busy. Check out places like Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park in Utah. They are beautiful! Just pick a national park you’ve never heard of because they’re all great, but some are significantly less crowded than others.

The same applies if you’re thinking about going to a museum. For example, let’s say you’re going to Washington DC. There are so many museums, but everybody’s got to go to the Smithsonian. So, of course, it’s crowded. It’s great, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider some of the lesser-known museums. Maybe check out the National Law Enforcement Museum or the Museum of the Bible.

Just try to be creative and dig deeper when planning your trip. Try to go where others aren’t thinking about going.

We love celebrating the summer with you and your family. Check back here to see new tips each week this summer!