In the current economy, it seems like everything is done on a more modest budget, even our vacations.
Many people can simply no longer afford to spend a lot of money on travel and recreation.
Some are tempted to either not take vacations or spend the time at home to avoid spending unnecessarily.
This is a mistake, because we all can benefit from getting away from our jobs and our everyday surroundings and doing something different for a few days.
So how do you do it when you are watching every penny? Well, you start out months earlier, putting money aside for your vacation so you actually have some money to spend.
You'll be surprised at how much you can sock away by just doing a little every month and being diligent not to touch it.
Plan ahead.
Pick a destination of interest and then look for other places of interest that are nearby.
Find out if there are any specials or discounts going.
Plan your vacation in the off season.
Prices will be cheaper and you won't be fighting your way through crowds at various attractions.
We discovered some years ago that Disney World in November is a very attractive option.
Some suggest staying with relatives or friends if you have them in the area.
I would only suggest doing this if you have a better than average relationship with them.
Not much can strain a relationship like an extended stay.
If you plan on flying, then plan your trip for those times when tickets are usually less expensive, usually February through May or September through December (with the exception of the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas).
I know part of the enjoyment of vacation is to eat out a lot.
It's refreshing to sit down somewhere that is nice and let someone else take care of everything.
However, those restaurant bills can add up quickly.
Plan on packing groceries and making your own meals at least half the time.
When you do eat out, avoid the obvious tourist spots..
..
find out where the locals go.
I have found that the local mom 'n pop restaurants offer better food at lower prices.
Discovering some local color can be a lot of fun.
Don't feel the need to stay on top of the main attraction.
Find lodging a reasonable distance from your points of interest and you may save a considerable amount on room rates.
Likewise, don't buy into a hotel because it has a lot of amenities.
Determine what you need and go from there.
Many times, a 3 star hotel can be just as satisfying as a big time 4 star.
You may also want to consider camping as an option.
Campgrounds are cheap and the experience may be well worth it.
Likewise, when traveling, don't stop for gas at the first place you come to off the interstate.
Going even a mile down the road, you will discover much cheaper gas prices.
I know it doesn't seem like much, but a dime or so a gallon can add up over the course of a long trip.
Likewise, packing light and maintaining proper tire pressure can really help with your mileage.
If you rent a car, make it something fuel efficient (i.
e.
renting that Hummer for a trip from Wisconsin to Miami probably wouldn't be a smart move).
Plan on activities that don't require a lot of money.
Swimming, hiking, and exploring historical sites are all fun activities that won't cost you.
Packing in every Disney theme park is nice, but your pocketbook may be crying for mercy in short order.
Don't buy souvenirs.
They have their momentary appeal, but let's face it, when is the last time you did any meaningful decoration with trinkets from last year's theme park visit? The answer is "never".
Of course the last thing you want to do is become so obsessed with money that you are unable to have a good time.
Just exercise some common sense, plan ahead, know what you have to spend, and stick to it.
There is no reason that you cannot enjoy a fabulous vacation getaway without breaking your bank.