Liquid Budgeting

      There are a lot of liquids that we have no control over.  At home, it's what we are charged by the water company.  When we are visiting friends or relatives, it may be the temperature of the hot water coming out of the shower head.  The cost of gas is the largest problem when doing the road trip with the kids.  But one thing that we can control is what we spend on drinks when on the road.

      Here is a little money saving tip that you may try.  I prepare for the trip for about the entire month before leaving.  Shopping for bargains on our snacks.  Getting on line in search of discount coupons for attractions.  And I have booked rooms 6 months in advance, but I do double check a few time during the last month prior to departure just in case there are any specials.  There are times that I have cancelled my reservations and re booked for a cheaper price.  BUT - the one thing that I always do is freeze drinks for the trip.

     Check this out - 
     We love the mocha coffee drinks, but when purchased from the grocery store  you are paying at least $1.00 for the little bottle.  Same drink from the truck stop or convenience store, about $2.00.
I made a similar drink, pour into a 16 oz bottle and freeze for a cost of about 30 cents.   I can control the caffeine content and the amount of creamer and flavoring. Plus, I will put it in a plastic container.
     What about the healthy for you juice drinks.  Again, a some what can purchased from the grocery store, in a four pack, will run you at least $1.00 each.  (usually more like $1.25).  Make that purchase when gassing up alone the highway and you will pay $2.00 - $2.50.  Availability is limited.
     And one more time here.  I am always happy when the kids ask for tea instead of soda.  Check the labels on these flavored teas and you may be a bit surprised at the sugar contents.  You can make these same teas right at home.  Weather it is just a basic sun tea, green tea or a tea that you add a tiny bit of real juice to, the home made teas is better for you and better tasting.  And the cost? The 16 oz bottle of home made teas will cost you about a dime.  Add a little bit of juice and you will get that cost up to 15 cents.  Let's compare cost. Ours -  15 cents or less.  The same size from the grocery store - $1.50 and along the highway you are looking at close to $3.00.

        Putting it simply, by making your own drinks to cover the first few days, you will easily save at least $20 a day for the family of 4, thefirst few days of your trip.  Adds up real quick!

      One more little tip - freeze most of your water, teas and juices (most are freezer compatible) and they will serve as ice for the cooler also.  Again, saving just a bit.  When you freeze your drinks, you will want to loosen your lids to allow for expansion, just like you do the gallon water jugs , that you use to replace block ice in your ice chest.