Seeing the Sights Without Breaking the Bank
03-07-2018
Author: in Finance
Many people wonder how in the world my family can afford to see everything we squeeze into our adventures. After all, we are far from wealthy people, and budgeting to see 8–10 attractions every month would seem all but impossible using our current income. That said, we have found ways around our financial constraints, and in doing so, we are able to see some really amazing attractions without spending a fortune.
There are dozens of amazing reciprocal programs out there that can easily cut your travel budget down to a fraction of what it might be otherwise. Below are a few of our favorite reciprocal memberships.
North American Reciprocal Museum Association (NARM)
This awesome association offers its members free access to hundreds of museums across the country. Most of these museums are art- and history-focused, but there are some other types of attractions included as well.
The association can be joined by becoming a member of any NARM member museum. Once you have joined the program, you will be allowed to visit any of the museums on their list of reciprocal memberships, with the exception of any museums within 90 miles of the museum you joined initially.
Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC)
ASTC is the reciprocal program we use most. It includes free admission to a large number of high-quality science and children’s museums across the US, as well as some other discounts and benefits. This program is also joined by becoming a member of a participating museum and has the same 90-mile rule mentioned above.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
Animal lovers of all ages will appreciate the AZA reciprocal program. This membership gives its users free or half-price admission to zoos and aquariums in most states. To join AZA, simply join a participating zoo or aquarium. The discount you receive depends on where you purchased your pass and which attraction you are visiting, so be sure to do your research before you buy.
“America the Beautiful” Pass
Of course, no RVer’s life would be complete without regular visits to our country’s amazing national parks. This is where the “America the Beautiful” Pass steps in. This pass can be purchased for just $80 a year and gives the cardholder access to national parks, national forests, and other federally owned lands all over the US. This is the perfect option for those who love the great outdoors.
These are just a few of the amazing reciprocal membership options out there, but I firmly believe they are some of the very best. Be sure to do your homework before you buy in order to fully understand what you are getting, and have fun as you explore your world on a budget!
Related Read: 5 Tips for RVing with Kids
Today I am going to share with you my secret for seeing much of what our country has to offer for very little money. What is that secret? Reciprocal memberships, of course!There are dozens of amazing reciprocal programs out there that can easily cut your travel budget down to a fraction of what it might be otherwise. Below are a few of our favorite reciprocal memberships.
North American Reciprocal Museum Association (NARM)
This awesome association offers its members free access to hundreds of museums across the country. Most of these museums are art- and history-focused, but there are some other types of attractions included as well.
The association can be joined by becoming a member of any NARM member museum. Once you have joined the program, you will be allowed to visit any of the museums on their list of reciprocal memberships, with the exception of any museums within 90 miles of the museum you joined initially.
Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC)
ASTC is the reciprocal program we use most. It includes free admission to a large number of high-quality science and children’s museums across the US, as well as some other discounts and benefits. This program is also joined by becoming a member of a participating museum and has the same 90-mile rule mentioned above.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
Animal lovers of all ages will appreciate the AZA reciprocal program. This membership gives its users free or half-price admission to zoos and aquariums in most states. To join AZA, simply join a participating zoo or aquarium. The discount you receive depends on where you purchased your pass and which attraction you are visiting, so be sure to do your research before you buy.
“America the Beautiful” Pass
Of course, no RVer’s life would be complete without regular visits to our country’s amazing national parks. This is where the “America the Beautiful” Pass steps in. This pass can be purchased for just $80 a year and gives the cardholder access to national parks, national forests, and other federally owned lands all over the US. This is the perfect option for those who love the great outdoors.
These are just a few of the amazing reciprocal membership options out there, but I firmly believe they are some of the very best. Be sure to do your homework before you buy in order to fully understand what you are getting, and have fun as you explore your world on a budget!
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Author: Chelsea Barron
