a) Hotel
Hotels can be one of the most luxurious parts of your trip, but without careful advance information, it could lead to disaster. The first place to cut corners is always with the cost - try some of these hotel brokers for a deal on your hotel costs:
A great, although basic, article about Hotel Brokers can be found at
Pathfinder.com.
Another prudent measure to take would be to ensure that the proper amenities will be available to you, before you book your room. Ask about checkout times (the later, the better - especially with kids), cooking facilities, soundproofing, child proofing, cribs and high chairs (if needed), and the like. Make your list before calling for reservations, so that you will have all of your questions answered on the spot.
b) Camping
Tourism bureaus (US, Canada) are always a great place to start when looking for a campsite. They can also advise you on appropriate day trips, free tours, and other hot spots that your entire family would enjoy. A recent trip to a tourist stop taught me things about the area that I have lived in my entire life that I never even knew about!
c) Home Exchange
Home exchanges can save you a trememdous amount of money, while still allowing you to enjoy a trip away from home. You can list your own property in exchange for other properties to travel to - but flexibility is the key here. Trying to plan a home exchange takes a little more planning that the other alternatives. You cannot just list your property and expect an exchange within a day or two - starting to look at least six months in advance would be more than prudent. Following are some home exchange companies on the Internet where you can find more information, as well as take a look at properties around the world:
What to Eat?
a) Restaurants
Restaurants are the most expensive option, but can be very convenient. Ensure that the location is child-friendly (i.e., high chairs, toys, noisy atmosphere, child specific menu, quick service). Call beforehand to make sure that your needs will be readily met; I know of a several parents who have had the unfortunate experience of just showing up at a restaurant unaware that it was truly not child appropriate, and ending up worse for the wear, and with a dented pocketbook.
