How to keep your kid in the game without going broke
About 40 percent of American children play a team sport, and the cost of playing averages more than $2,000 a year. Add in travel expenses for games and tournaments and the price tag can go up even further. But you can give your child the travel team experience without breaking the bank by using a few money-saving tips:
Stick to used equipment. New sporting equipment isn’t necessary if you can find good-condition used equipment. PlayItAgainSports.com, SwapMeSports.com, and CraigsList.org are all potential avenues for picking up sporting equipment on the cheap. Make sure to check the legitimacy of the website used and read reviews of the seller before making any purchases, to make sure you don’t get stuck with less than promised equipment. Even borrowing equipment from a friend can work, especially because children often try a sport, then give it up if they find another one they like better.
Choose just one sport. Rather than allowing your child to be busy year-round, why not ask him or her to stick to a favorite sport. You’ll save costs by not having to buy a ton of equipment for several different sports, and your child may have more time to develop real skills in the single game chosen.
Pack snacks. Don’t rely on restaurants while you’re on the road traveling to your child’s next event. Instead, think ahead and pack a cooler with the food and beverages you’ll need for the trip. You’ll save about $5 to $7 per person, which can add up quickly over a season.
Split costs with another family. Becoming friendly with another family with a child on the team can open up options for sharing traveling expenses and even hotel rooms.
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