Family Money Adventure

TikTok is full of travel tips, but not all of them are worth trying. In this episode, I’m breaking down some of the most unhinged travel tips I’ve seen floating around online.  Some of these tips cross the line completely. Others are just plain weird. And a few might actually be helpful, depending on how you travel. I’m sharing my honest thoughts as we walk through the chaos together.  If you’ve ever wondered just how far people are willing to go to save a buck or skip a line, you’re in for a ride.    In This Episode, You’ll Learn:  The lengths people go to for free amenities How travelers are turning vests into luggage How travelers are making space in their suitcase before they even leave How some travelers allow curiosity and chance to plan their itinerary    Episode Highlights  We kick things off with the worst offenders. These are the tips that are dishonest, unsafe, or completely over the line. Whether or not people are serious, they’re not worth the risk.  Then we move into the gray area. These tips toe the line between clever and selfish. Some might work, but not without consequences.  Next up are the weird ones that kind of make sense. They might not be your thing, but they’re not exactly wrong either.  Finally, we look at the mindset behind these ideas. Not every tip is about money. Some are about space, freedom, or finding your own way to travel.    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  Henderson Beach Resort: https://www.hendersonbeachresort.com  Follow Hender Beach Resort on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehendersonfl/    📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe    Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com HeyKevinPayne.com  JoyWorldTour.com   Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne Facebook: @heykevinpayne TikTok: @heykevinpayne YouTube: @heykevinpayne    Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series    🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Hey adventurers. Let’s talk about the kind of travel that helps you slow down and breathe a little deeper.  I recently spent a few days at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin, Florida, as part of a hosted media trip with Matador Network. Instead of doing a full resort review, I wanted to highlight five personal moments that stood out to me during my stay. These weren’t bucket list activities or high-adrenaline excursions. They were the kind of moments that helped me reset.  It’s a personal look at what peace looks like when you let go of your schedule and lean into rest. If you’ve ever come back from a vacation feeling like you need another one, this episode is for you.  In this episode, you’ll learn  Why an early morning yoga session by the water was the perfect start to the day What made my spa experience feel like more than just a massage  Why slowing down on the beach gave me a new kind of vacation energy Where to catch the best sunset views around the resort How a simple night around a fire pit turned into a trip highlight    Episode Summary  This episode is all about finding peace in the middle of a busy life. I’m sharing five moments from my time at Henderson Beach Resort that reminded me how good it feels to slow down. These experiences weren’t flashy, but they stayed with me in the best way.  You’ll hear about yoga near the water, a spa visit that felt surprisingly personal, and why just sitting under a beach umbrella might be exactly what you need. I also talk about the kind of sunset views that make people stop mid-sentence and how a casual evening with strangers turned into one of my favorite memories from the trip.  This trip was a great reminder that sometimes the most valuable part of travel isn’t checking things off a list. It’s creating space to actually feel present.    If your version of rest has been collecting dust lately, I hope this episode helps you start reclaiming it.  🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  Henderson Beach Resort: https://www.hendersonbeachresort.com  Follow Hender Beach Resort on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehendersonfl/  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe    Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com JoyWorldTour.com HeyKevinPayne.com    Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series 🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Hey Adventurers! From dining and resort tips to planning advice and traveling with little ones, this episode covers it all. Recorded as part of a sponsored media trip to Walt Disney World, I spoke with several Disney experts about making the most of your visit.  Whether you're a foodie, planning your first trip with toddlers, or looking for expert strategies to stretch your vacation budget, this episode is filled with valuable insights and practical tips.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What to eat and experience during the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival  Unique dining options across Walt Disney World parks and resorts  Insights into the Disney Resorts Collection and finding the right place to stay  Helpful planning tips from a planDisney Panelist  Best advice for families visiting with young children  Featured Guests:  Chef Philip, Sous Chef at EPCOT  Morgan Cullen, Disney Spokesperson (Resorts)  Emille Crawford, planDisney Panelist  Helenn Kikendall, Disney Spokesperson (Young Kids)  Episode Resources:  planDisney Official Site  Special Offers & Deals    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Hey Adventurers! If you're dreaming of sunshine, thrills, and unforgettable moments, then you're going to love this episode. Recorded as part of a sponsored media trip to Walt Disney World, we’re diving into all the summer fun happening across the parks right now.   I sat down with four Disney spokespeople to get the scoop on what’s new, what’s exciting, and what you won’t want to miss from Animal Kingdom and EPCOT to Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  What’s new at EPCOT, including the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival  Best character meet-and-greets across the parks  Top summer attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom  Dining and entertainment highlights at Magic Kingdom  New shows and seasonal events at Disney’s Hollywood Studios  Foodie tips and must-try snacks from Disney spokespeople  PhotoPass tips and ways to capture magical family moments  Featured Guests:  Sarah Domenech, Disney Spokesperson (Animal Kingdom & EPCOT)  Alex Gonzalez, Disney Spokesperson (Magic Kingdom)  Nick Regueiro, Disney Spokesperson (Hollywood Studios)  Jenny Jing, Disney Spokesperson (Walt Disney World Resort)  Episode Resources:  planDisney Official Site  Walt Disney World Special Offers, Deals & Discounts    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this special episode of The Family Money Adventure Show, recorded as part of a sponsored media trip to Walt Disney World, I’m joined by planDisney Panelists Matt and Christina, who share insider tips for planning an epic family trip from start to finish.  We talk about choosing the best travel dates, where to stay, ticket and Lightning Lane strategies, setting a vacation budget, and why every trip should be tailored to your unique family style. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, you’ll walk away from this episode with a solid game plan and the confidence to make the most of your magical adventure.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  How to set a family travel budget and prioritize value  Tips for choosing the right time of year to visit  Advice for picking a Walt Disney World Resort hotel that fits your family’s style  Transportation strategies (including the benefits of the monorail and Skyliner)  Ways to involve your kids in the planning process  Deciding on the number of park days and including downtime  Park Hopper vs. one-park-per-day tickets  Understanding and using the new Lightning Lane system  How to plan dining with or without the Disney Dining Plan  Favorite Disney restaurants, rides, and shows  Money-saving tips for food, snacks, and memory making  Featured Guests:  Matt, planDisney Panelist  Christina, planDisney Panelist  Episode Resources  planDisney Official Site  Walt Disney World Special Offers, Deals & Discounts    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Traveling with your family can be expensive, but saving for a trip doesn’t have to feel impossible. In this episode, we’re moving beyond traditional advice like cutting expenses or budgeting to explore creative and unconventional ways to build your travel fund. From decluttering your home to monetizing your hobbies, you’ll find practical strategies that work, no matter your financial situation.  Whether you’re saving for a weekend getaway or a dream family vacation, these tips will help you prioritize what matters most and save money faster than you thought possible. Let’s explore some unique approaches to get you closer to your next adventure.  Takeaways  In this episode, you’ll learn:  How to declutter and sell unused items to jumpstart your savings.  Creative ways to turn your skills and hobbies into extra income.  Practical strategies for using technology and cashback tools to maximize savings.    Saving for a trip doesn’t have to rely on boring, outdated advice. In this episode, we dive into actionable, creative ways to build your travel fund without feeling like you’re sacrificing everything. You’ll hear practical strategies like hosting a virtual garage sale, monetizing your skills and hobbies, and leveraging cashback tools to make your money work smarter for you.  We also discuss the importance of prioritizing what truly matters in your budget. By focusing on what brings value to your life, you can cut back temporarily on non-essentials and put more money toward your travel goals. You’ll also learn about unique side gigs, seasonal opportunities, and leveraging unexpected windfalls like tax refunds or bonuses to reach your goals faster.  Saving for travel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With these creative approaches, you can build your fund in a way that fits your lifestyle while setting yourself up for an amazing trip.    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode      Fat Llama  Neighbor  Turo  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services   

Hey Adventurers! Are you ready to take on more of the travel planning duties for your family or partner?   In this episode, we're diving into how to plan a trip that your spouse will absolutely love, whether it's a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or just a fun weekend escape.  We know that women make more than 80% of travel decisions, but what if we could balance the planning load? Today, we’ll cover two different approaches to help you get more involved in planning unforgettable trips.  Takeaways  In this episode, you'll learn:  The benefits of planning a complete trip from start to finish for your spouse or partner.  How to collaboratively plan a vacation and share travel responsibilities with your spouse.  Practical tips for managing family travel logistics, creating an itinerary, and making the planning process fun for everyone involved.  Strategies for communicating effectively and balancing different travel styles.  Episode Summary  In this episode, we tackle how you can become more involved in travel planning for your spouse or family. We explore two approaches to getting started: planning a complete trip by yourself or sharing responsibilities with your partner.  If you're planning a complete trip, learn how to leverage active listening to understand what your spouse truly loves, whether it's a quiet coffee in a scenic spot or a specific adventure they've always dreamed about. We’ll cover everything from handling logistics, packing lists, and child-friendly activities to building in surprises that will make the trip extra special.  If you’re looking to plan together, we’ll discuss how communication is the key to success. Learn how to split responsibilities, take advantage of each other’s strengths, and ensure both partners enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed. This approach can make the planning process more rewarding and bring you closer as a couple.  We'll also discuss some of the potential challenges of becoming more involved in travel planning, such as resistance to change and managing different travel styles. Finally, I’ll share practical travel planning tips, such as how to create packing checklists, use shared planning tools, and celebrate each other's efforts to make every trip memorable.    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Are you ready to learn how to plan your first rewards trip using points and miles? In this episode, I’m sharing practical tips and lessons from my family’s journey into rewards travel.   We’ll cover everything from choosing your first rewards card to booking your flights and accommodations, all designed to help you maximize travel opportunities while keeping costs down.  Whether you’re new to credit card rewards or want to maximize your points and miles, this episode breaks down the steps for planning a trip without breaking the bank.  Takeaways  In this episode, you’ll learn:  Factors to consider when choosing your first rewards credit card  How to strategically earn and redeem points for a family trip  Practical tips for maximizing travel rewards and staying organized  Episode Summary  In this episode, I walk you through the essential steps for planning your first rewards trip with points and miles. We start by discussing how to choose a rewards credit card that aligns with your travel goals, covering factors like earning rates, welcome bonuses, and card perks. You’ll hear how I approached this process when I first got started and the types of rewards cards that have been most valuable to my family.  We'll discuss researching and booking your trip. Learn how to calculate how many points you’ll need, choose flexible travel dates for better deals, and find flights and hotels using Google Flights and award availability tools. For our family, planning ahead and staying flexible has been key to stretching our points and making travel more affordable.  I also share best practices for rewards card use, such as paying your balance in full, strategically using transfer partners, and avoiding fees. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you make the most of your rewards for a memorable, cost-effective family trip.    ✈️ Award Availability Tools For Flights  Point.me  Point.me is a powerful tool for comparing award flight availability across multiple frequent flyer programs. Its easy-to-navigate interface helps you find the best redemption options for your points.   Roame  Roame is a tool that simplifies award flight searches by helping you find the best points and miles redemptions based on your preferences. It offers detailed searches across different airlines and loyalty programs.   Seats.aero  Seats.aero offers fast searches for award flight availability, allowing you to view results across multiple airlines instantly. It’s a useful tool for travelers looking to snag last-minute award seats.  PointsYeah  PointsYeah is an award travel search engine that helps you find available seats using points and miles across different airlines and alliances. It also offers insights on the best redemptions for your travel dates.   Points Path  Points Path simplifies the process of finding the best award travel options based on your point balances and destination preferences. You can enter your desired travel dates and see a range of redemption possibilities.   ExpertFlyer  ExpertFlyer is a premium service offering advanced tools for tracking flight availability, seat upgrades, and award seats. It’s ideal for frequent travelers who want to set up alerts for specific routes.   SeatSpy  SeatSpy is designed to help you monitor and track award seat availability across several airlines, including major international carriers. It also allows you to set up alerts for specific flights and dates.  Award Availability Tools For Hotels  Max My Point  Max My Point helps you find award availability for major hotel chains. It provides real-time data to help you book your stay using points. It simplifies the search process by showing which hotels offer point redemptions for your chosen dates.  Stay With Points  Stay With Points offers a comprehensive search across hotel loyalty programs, helping you find the best value for your points. It’s a great tool for determining how far your points can stretch for different stays. Note: Premium features are available for paid accounts.  Awayz  Awayz helps travelers quickly find hotel award availability, even during peak travel times. It’s an easy-to-use tool for securing hotel stays with your points. Note: Free users can access limited searches, with full access through a paid subscription.  Rooms.aero  Rooms.aero allows you to search for award-night availability across multiple hotel programs in one place. It’s a useful tool for comparing redemption options for different hotel brands and finding the best value.  Note: Some of these tools cost money or offer free access, but reserve their most useful features for paid accounts. If you’re serious about finding the best awards for flights or hotels, investing in a premium version may be worth it to access features like alerts or advanced search filters.    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Are you struggling to fit travel into your busy school year schedule? You’re not alone. As parents, it can feel overwhelming to balance school, sports, work, and family life while still making room for travel.   But the good news is, it’s totally possible!  In this episode, I explain how our family manages to squeeze in travel during the school year, from using the school calendar strategically to planning budget-friendly trips.  Whether your family follows a traditional school calendar, homeschool schedule, or something else, you’ll find these tips helpful for making the most out of your time and maximizing your travel opportunities.    Takeaways  In this episode, you’ll learn:  How to use your school’s academic calendar to plan ahead for travel.  Tips for maximizing long and short school breaks for family trips.  Strategies for saving money on travel during peak times using rewards and early planning.  How to coordinate family schedules better.     Episode Summary  In this episode of the Family Money Adventure Show, I share details on what our family does to fit in more travel into a busy school year. We dive into the importance of using the school calendar to take advantage of holiday breaks, in-service days and long weekends.    You’ll hear how my family explores local spots like Cleveland and other nearby cities when we don’t have time for a big vacation.  We also discuss how to stretch vacation days and maximize travel using tools like a PTO calculator. I share my top tips for planning ahead, using credit card rewards to offset costs, and finding budget-friendly accommodations.   If you’ve ever struggled with syncing your family’s busy schedules, I’ll explain how using an online calendar keeps us organized and how to balance travel and other family needs.   Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just getting started, tune in and learn simple, actionable steps to help your family travel more throughout the year.  🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services   

All-inclusive resorts are a popular vacation option for couples, families, and groups. If you've never planned a trip to an all-inclusive resort before, it can be a bit overwhelming. In this episode, we'll discuss all-inclusive resorts, what's included in the cost and what's extra, how to compare resorts to find the perfect one for you, and tips to make your all-inclusive vacation a memorable one.   Recently, Sandos Resorts and Hotels invited me to visit three of its properties in Mexico: Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, Sandos Playacar and Sandos Cancun. Each resort offers a unique experience but is somewhat different in its layout, amenities, and ideal guests. I'll share examples from each resort during our discussion to help you better understand how all-inclusive resorts work and what they offer.   Sandos Resorts and Hotels sponsored the trip, but all of the opinions shared in this episode are my own.  Takeaways  In This Episode, You’ll Learn  The essentials of what all-inclusive packages typically cover and what may cost extra.   Key considerations for choosing the perfect all-inclusive resort for your needs such as location, amenities, and types of accommodations.  Effective strategies for making the most out of your stay at an all-inclusive resort, from booking trips to enjoying resort activities.    Episode Highlights  Breaking Down All-Inclusive Pricing: Learn how all-inclusive pricing is structured and how resorts work for larger groups or families.   Navigating Dining Options: Good food is a must when traveling. Researching dining options available at a resort, including for special dietary needs, can help you find a great resort with excellent food offerings.   Maximizing Your Resort Experience: Learn tips to enhance your stay and ensure you're getting your money's worth.     🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  Sandos Caracol Eco Resort Sandos Playacar Sandos Cancun     📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services   

In this special episode of the Family Money Adventure Show, Kevin sits down with his wife, Barb, for a candid conversation about their journey through major life changes. From Kevin’s transition to a full-time writing career to their unexpected adoption journey, Barb offers her unique perspective as the spouse navigating these challenges alongside Kevin. This episode sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of partners in career changes and family transitions.    In This Episode, You’ll Learn  How open communication and mutual support can guide couples through big life decisions.  Barb’s perspective on Kevin’s career change and the challenges of finding stability and financial security.  The real-life struggles and joys of adopting two girls and adjusting to life as a family of six.  Tips for involving kids in travel planning and creating memorable family adventures.  How to navigate challenges and uncertainty together as a couple.    Episode Highlights  Barb’s Point of View: Barb shares her thoughts on Kevin’s career change to full-time writing, highlighting the fears, stipulations, and conversations that were essential to making the transition work for their family.  Facing the Unknowns of Adoption: Barb reflects on the whirlwind of adopting two sisters and the unexpected challenges they encountered, offering a raw look at the realities of expanding their family overnight.  Communicating Through Career Changes: Kevin and Barb discuss the importance of setting expectations, being patient, and staying connected during career transitions, especially when one partner is making a significant leap.  Travel Memories and Family Dynamics: Barb talks about the power of involving kids in family travel planning and how these shared experiences have strengthened their family bond.    Key Takeaways  Open and honest communication is essential for couples navigating major changes.  It’s normal to have fears and doubts, but addressing them openly can strengthen your relationship and lead to better decisions.  Transitioning careers or growing a family requires patience, adaptability, and sometimes a Plan B.  Including kids in decision-making and travel planning can create lasting memories and teach them valuable life skills.  Sharing real stories of struggles, triumphs, and fears helps other families understand they are not alone in their journeys.      🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

I have a special treat for you Adventurers! We are talking about Taylor Swift. Yes, you heard me correctly!   Put on your listening ears because class is in session as we look at some financial lessons from Taylor Swift.  For reference, this episode was recorded a week after Taylor Swift released 1989 (Taylor’s Version). The reimagined album has already secured the title of Taylor's biggest sales week ever, topping the original release of 1989. It's also the sixth-largest sales week ever by any artist.   With the success of the 1989 re-release and recent news that Tay Tay is now a billionaire, it seems like the perfect time to dive into the album to see if there's anything we can learn and apply to our finances.     In this episode, you'll:  Discover how to Clean your financial slate from past money mistakes   Find out why saving toward goals can keep you from Going Down in Financial Flames  Learn why This Love for compound interest is a relationship worth committing to and how we play the long game with our investments  Get the scoop on how to make your Wildest Dreams of financial success a chart-topping hit         🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Hello Adventurers, I have a treat for you! I recently attended FinCon, which is the largest conference for independent financial media. I spent the week hanging out with and learning from the best bloggers, podcasters, Youtubers, creators, and entrepreneurs I know.   I tried something new this year at FinCon — recording live from the FinCon Podcast Booth. This episode marks the first time I've interviewed anyone on the podcast. Interviewing guests on the show is something I want to explore, so let me know if that's something you would enjoy.  In this special episode, I am joined by Virginia Elder. Virginia is the founder and owner of Podcast Abundance, a full-service podcast production company offering audio and video podcast editing and management services. Virginia and her incredible podcast production team help financial advisors, real estate investors, small business owners, and other entrepreneurs to create podcasts that educate, entertain, and inspire.   In fact, Podcast Abundance edits and helps me manage this amazing, future award-winning podcast called the Family Money Adventure Show.  In this episode, Virginia and I discuss:  Our FinCon history  The origin story of Podcast Abundance  Her connection with local businesses in the Dallas/Fort Worth area  How she balances family time while building a successful podcast production business    🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/service

Credit scores are a 3-digit number that represents your credit health. Whether you have a good score, bad score, or no score, there are actions you can take that can help improve your score, which can help you qualify for lending and credit cards and open other doors. A good credit score can also save you money.  Key Takeaways In this episode, you'll learn: we'll discuss: What is a credit score? Is your credit score actually important?  Ways to check your score for free Simple steps you can take today to boost your credit score Resources On Credit And Race U.S. News & World Report: How Race Affects Your Credit Score Forbes Advisor: From Inherent Racial Bias to Incorrect Data—The Problems With Current Credit Scoring Models Money Management International: Why Good Credit is Harder to Achieve in Communities of Color and What You Can Do About It Board Of Governors Of The Federal Reserve System: How Much Does Racial Bias Affect Mortgage Lending? Evidence from Human and Algorithmic Credit Decisions Bankrate: How race impacts credit: the history and effect on lending practices GOBankingRates: Black Americans Are More Likely To Be Denied Credit — Here’s Why, According to Experts Resources For Free Credit Score and Credit Report Access AnnualCreditReport.com CreditWise from Capital One Credit Karma Credit Sesame Credit.Com Experian TransUnion Credit Boosting Programs Experian Boost  UltraFICO StellarFi Grow Credit TurboTenant (requires your landlord to also sign up for a free account) 🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services 

Disney World is an amazing place, but let’s be real: it’s not cheap. Even if you plan carefully and find ways to save, a Disney trip can still stretch your budget. But here’s the good news: not everything at Disney costs money. In this episode, I’m sharing 11 completely free things you can do at Disney World. From hidden entertainment to free keepsakes and unique resort experiences, there are plenty of ways to add extra magic to your trip without spending an extra dime. Stick around until the end. I might even throw in a bonus freebie or two. Takeaways In this episode, you’ll learn: Where to score free keepsakes and souvenirs at Disney World How to explore Disney resorts—even if you’re not staying there The best ways to get exclusive character photos without an extra charge How to catch Disney fireworks and entertainment for free Episode Summary A trip to Disney doesn’t have to break the bank, and you don’t have to spend extra money to have a great time. In this episode, we’re covering 11 fun things you can do at Disney World without spending a cent. We’ll talk about where to find free souvenirs, how to enjoy resort hopping, and where to catch live entertainment that most visitors don’t even know about. You’ll also learn how to see Disney’s fireworks for free—without ever stepping foot in the parks. Disney is all about the little details, and some of the best experiences don’t cost a thing. Whether you’re looking to cut costs or just want to squeeze a little extra magic out of your trip, this episode will help you make the most of Disney without spending more. 🎧Resources & Recommendations 📰 SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally. Click here to subscribe 📍FIND ME ON THE INTERWEBS FamilyMoneyAdventure.com JoyWorldTour.com HeyKevinPayne.com 📲✨CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL Instagram: @heykevinpayneFacebook: @heykevinpayneTikTok: @heykevinpayneYouTube: @heykevinpayne CHECK OUT OUR DISNEY PODCAST SERIES 🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series 🧳 TRAVEL TOOLS I LOVE Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel GearHotels – Booking.comVacation Rentals – VrboAttractions & Tours – ViatorAttractions & Tours – Get Your GuideTheme Park Tickets – Undercover TouristCity Passes – CityPASSHop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus ToursTravel Insurance – InsureMyTripRV Rentals – RVShare 💸 MONEY TOOLS I RECOMMEND Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My FavoritesBudgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top PicksHigh-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect High-Yield Savings & CDs – RaisinKids’ Banking – GreenlightMicro-Investing – Acorns Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you. Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

Our Disney World series continues with a jam-packed episode full of helpful tips for families visiting Walt Disney World. Whether it is your first trip or your fifteenth, planning a Disney vacation can feel overwhelming. This episode is here to help you simplify that process. We are sharing practical, family-tested tips that can make a big difference during your time in the parks. From smart packing to food strategy and even accessibility resources, this one is loaded with real-world advice to help you create a more enjoyable trip for your entire crew. Takeaways In this episode, you’ll learn: Free tools available to help you navigate the Disney parks Resources available to families of individuals with disabilities Why “The Pickle” is one of our favorite travel tips What essentials to pack to stay happy and healthy in the parks An alternative method for scoring dining reservations at Disney Springs restaurants Episode Summary Visiting Walt Disney World with kids can be magical, but it can also come with a lot of logistics. In this episode, we share some of our favorite tips to help make your Disney trip smoother, more affordable, and less stressful. We start with a few essential planning tools, like the My Disney Experience app and other helpful resources that let you check wait times, mobile order food, and stay updated on show schedules. We also dive into how Disney supports guests with disabilities, including Disability Access Service and sensory guides for attractions. You’ll also hear how we manage decision fatigue in the parks with a tip we call “The Pickle” — a simple strategy that helps settle family indecision without overthinking or arguments. We round things out with a look at what to pack to stay comfortable in the Florida heat and how to grab last-minute reservations at some of Disney Springs’ most popular restaurants. There is a lot to think about when planning a Disney trip, but a few smart strategies can go a long way. Whether your goal is to save money, reduce stress, or just make the day more fun for your family, this episode is packed with helpful ideas to support your Disney adventure. 🎧Resources & Recommendations 📰 SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally. Click here to subscribe 📍FIND ME ON THE INTERWEBS FamilyMoneyAdventure.com JoyWorldTour.com HeyKevinPayne.com 📲✨CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL Instagram: @heykevinpayneFacebook: @heykevinpayneTikTok: @heykevinpayneYouTube: @heykevinpayne CHECK OUT OUR DISNEY PODCAST SERIES 🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series 🧳 TRAVEL TOOLS I LOVE Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel GearHotels – Booking.comVacation Rentals – VrboAttractions & Tours – ViatorAttractions & Tours – Get Your GuideTheme Park Tickets – Undercover TouristCity Passes – CityPASSHop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus ToursTravel Insurance – InsureMyTripRV Rentals – RVShare 💸 MONEY TOOLS I RECOMMEND Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My FavoritesBudgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top PicksHigh-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect High-Yield Savings & CDs – RaisinKids’ Banking – GreenlightMicro-Investing – Acorns Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you. Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

A trip to Disney World isn’t cheap, but what if you could cover flights, hotels, and even park tickets using travel rewards? That’s exactly what we’ve been doing for years. In this episode, we’re breaking down how you can use points and miles to make your next Disney vacation more affordable. We’ll walk through the different types of travel rewards credit cards, how to maximize sign-up bonuses, and even where to buy Disney tickets so they count as a travel expense. If you’re new to travel rewards, don’t worry. We’ve got all the basics to help you get started. Takeaways In this episode, you’ll learn: How travel rewards work and the different types of travel rewards credit cards Why credit card sign-up bonuses are the fastest way to earn points and miles Where to buy Disney tickets so you can redeem rewards to cover the cost How to strategically book flights and hotels using points for maximum savings Episode Summary Disney vacations are expensive, but points and miles can make a huge difference. In this episode, we explain how travel rewards programs work and how you can use them to earn free or heavily discounted travel through everyday spending. We cover the different types of travel rewards credit cards, including those that offer transferable points, airline miles, and hotel rewards. You’ll also learn why sign-up bonuses are key to building your balance quickly and how to use those points for flights, hotels, and even park tickets. One of the biggest challenges is using points to cover Disney park tickets. We share a little-known trick that can make this possible by purchasing tickets from select third-party sellers that code as travel expenses. This lets you use your points to pay for tickets, which most people don’t realize is even an option. If you want to visit Disney for less and start using points and miles with confidence, this episode is a great place to begin. 🎧Resources & Recommendations 📰 SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally. Click here to subscribe 📍FIND ME ON THE INTERWEBS FamilyMoneyAdventure.com JoyWorldTour.com HeyKevinPayne.com 📲✨CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL Instagram: @heykevinpayneFacebook: @heykevinpayneTikTok: @heykevinpayneYouTube: @heykevinpayne CHECK OUT OUR DISNEY PODCAST SERIES 🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series 🧳 TRAVEL TOOLS I LOVE Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel GearHotels – Booking.comVacation Rentals – VrboAttractions & Tours – ViatorAttractions & Tours – Get Your GuideTheme Park Tickets – Undercover TouristCity Passes – CityPASSHop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus ToursTravel Insurance – InsureMyTripRV Rentals – RVShare 💸 MONEY TOOLS I RECOMMEND Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My FavoritesBudgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top PicksHigh-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect High-Yield Savings & CDs – RaisinKids’ Banking – GreenlightMicro-Investing – Acorns Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you. Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

A Disney World vacation is magical, but it’s no secret that it can also be expensive. The good news? There are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing the experience. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned Disney pro, these tips will help you stretch your budget and make the most of your trip. In this episode, we’re sharing practical strategies for cutting costs on park tickets, food, accommodations, and more. Plus, stick around to hear one of my favorite Disney money-saving hacks—because let’s be honest, every dollar saved means more room for souvenirs, right? Takeaways In this episode, you’ll learn: The best ways to save on Disney park tickets How to reduce food costs while still enjoying great meals Tips for finding affordable accommodations on and off property Why bringing the right essentials can save you money inside the parks How to use travel rewards to offset your Disney expenses Episode Summary Disney vacations don’t have to drain your bank account. In this episode, we break down some of the best ways to save money at Disney World, whether you're booking park tickets, deciding where to stay, or figuring out the best budget-friendly food options. We’ll cover why buying tickets from authorized third-party sellers can help you save, how to cut down on food expenses without skipping the best Disney treats, and why planning your souvenir strategy in advance can help you avoid overspending. We’ll also dive into how travel rewards can be a game-changer for saving on flights and hotels, making your Disney trip even more affordable. Disney magic doesn’t have to come with a massive price tag. With the right strategy, you can plan a budget-friendly trip while still enjoying everything the parks have to offer. Tune in to learn how to make every dollar count on your next Disney adventure. 🎧Resources & Recommendations 📰 SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally. Click here to subscribe 📍FIND ME ON THE INTERWEBS FamilyMoneyAdventure.com JoyWorldTour.com HeyKevinPayne.com 📲✨CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL Instagram: @heykevinpayneFacebook: @heykevinpayneTikTok: @heykevinpayneYouTube: @heykevinpayne CHECK OUT OUR DISNEY PODCAST SERIES 🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series 🧳 TRAVEL TOOLS I LOVE Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel GearHotels – Booking.comVacation Rentals – VrboAttractions & Tours – ViatorAttractions & Tours – Get Your GuideTheme Park Tickets – Undercover TouristCity Passes – CityPASSHop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus ToursTravel Insurance – InsureMyTripRV Rentals – RVShare 💸 MONEY TOOLS I RECOMMEND Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My FavoritesBudgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top PicksHigh-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect High-Yield Savings & CDs – RaisinKids’ Banking – GreenlightMicro-Investing – Acorns Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you. Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

Choosing where to stay at Disney World is one of the biggest decisions when planning your trip. With so many hotel and vacation rental options in the Orlando area, one of the first things to decide is whether to stay on property at a Disney World Resort or off property somewhere else. This episode kicks off our Disney World Vacation Planning Series and, for the first time, I’m recording from a hotel instead of my home office. I’m coming to you from The Walt Disney World Swan Resort as we break down the pros and cons of staying on Disney property versus staying offsite. Takeaways In this episode, you’ll learn: The perks of staying at a Disney World Resort The types of accommodations available outside of the Disney bubble What Disney Good Neighbor Hotels are and how they compare to Disney resorts The hidden costs of staying off-property that could impact your budget Episode Summary One of the biggest questions Disney visitors face is whether to stay at a Disney World Resort or book a hotel, vacation rental, or Airbnb off-property. Each option has its benefits, but the right choice depends on your budget, travel style, and priorities. In this episode, we go over the major perks of staying at a Disney World Resort, including early park entry, free transportation, and the immersive Disney experience. We also explore the downsides of staying on property, like higher costs and fewer accommodation options for large families. For those considering off-property stays, we break down how much you can save, the flexibility of choosing a non-Disney hotel or rental, and what hidden costs—like parking fees and transportation—could offset those savings. We also cover Disney Good Neighbor Hotels, a middle-ground option that offers some Disney perks while keeping costs lower than official Disney resorts. If you’re planning a trip to Disney and aren’t sure where to stay, this episode will help you weigh the pros and cons so you can find the best fit for your vacation. 🎧Resources & Recommendations 📰 SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally. Click here to subscribe 📍FIND ME ON THE INTERWEBS FamilyMoneyAdventure.com JoyWorldTour.com HeyKevinPayne.com 📲✨CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL Instagram: @heykevinpayneFacebook: @heykevinpayneTikTok: @heykevinpayneYouTube: @heykevinpayne CHECK OUT OUR DISNEY PODCAST SERIES 🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series 🧳 TRAVEL TOOLS I LOVE Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel GearHotels – Booking.comVacation Rentals – VrboAttractions & Tours – ViatorAttractions & Tours – Get Your GuideTheme Park Tickets – Undercover TouristCity Passes – CityPASSHop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus ToursTravel Insurance – InsureMyTripRV Rentals – RVShare 💸 MONEY TOOLS I RECOMMEND Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My FavoritesBudgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top PicksHigh-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect High-Yield Savings & CDs – RaisinKids’ Banking – GreenlightMicro-Investing – Acorns Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you. Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

Budgets.  You either love them or you hate them. Budgets and budgeting often have a negative connotation. People often think of budgets as too rigid or that they lead to a negative view of money. Other people and families swear by them.  Credit.com recently surveyed Americans on their budgeting habits. Here's what they discovered:  27% don't think budgets are necessary 24% don't think they'll stick to a budget 15% feel too restricted by a budget 10% don't know how to start budgeting 10% just don't want to do it 12% are afraid to even look at their bank account In this episode, we take a closer look at budgeting to determine if budgets actually work.  Takeaways In this episode, you'll learn:  What a budget is Types of budgets Benefits and drawbacks of budgeting When budgeting makes sense Catch These Must-Listen Moments From The Episode [04:25] What is the anti-budget?  [05:45] The difference between a budget and a spending plan [09:15] Reasons many people graduate from using a budget [10:31] The importance of tracking your spending   🎧 Resources & Links from This Episode  📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter  Get practical tips on family money and travel, plus updates, tools, and resources to help you live more intentionally.  Click here to subscribe  Visit My Websites  FamilyMoneyAdventure.com  JoyWorldTour.com  HeyKevinPayne.com  Connect With Me on Social  Instagram: @heykevinpayne  Facebook: @heykevinpayne  TikTok: @heykevinpayne  YouTube: @heykevinpayne  Featured Series  🎙️ Listen to Our Disney Podcast Series  🧳 Travel Tools I Love  Packing Cubes & Travel Backpacks – Tripped Travel Gear Hotels – Booking.com  Vacation Rentals – Vrbo  Attractions & Tours – Viator  Attractions & Tours – Get Your Guide Theme Park Tickets – Undercover Tourist City Passes – CityPASS  Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours Travel Insurance – InsureMyTrip  RV Rentals – RVShare  💸 Money Tools I Recommend  Rewards Credit Cards – Explore My Favorites Budgeting Apps for Families – See Our Top Picks High-Yield Savings – CIT Bank Savings Connect  High-Yield Savings & CDs – Raisin  Kids’ Banking – Greenlight  Micro-Investing – Acorns  Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up or make a purchase at no extra cost to you.  Podcast audio management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services