| The summer is right around the corner, and | | | | along the way. Planning ahead will help ensure that |
| thousands of Americans are planning vacations and | | | | you have enough money to cover all of your |
| trips. Traveling on a budget can be tricky, but it is | | | | activities. Dont forget to factor in souvenirs and |
| not impossible. The key is to plan ahead, and try to | | | | snacks. |
| the make the most out of what you have. Contact | | | | 3. Keep the kids entertained! Traveling with young |
| your credit card company beforehand to find out | | | | ones can be a challenge. You want to have plenty of |
| what kind of deals they have to offer. Many have | | | | activities and toys to keep them occupied. Try |
| rebate programs for travel expenses. If you are | | | | looking at for some great coupons for toys and |
| using a rental car, find out if your insurance covers | | | | travel gear. Dont forget books and magazines as well. |
| you in case of an accident. You can save quite a bit | | | | The trip will go faster, and you wont have to field as |
| by forgoing the car rental insurance policy. | | | | many are we there yet? cries. |
| The following is a list of tips and tricks to make your | | | | 4. Dont forget the tunes. Stock up on your families |
| summer vacation the best ever. | | | | favorite CDs and tapes. Include a few titles for each |
| 1. Get a good deal on a hotel. Unless you are staying | | | | family member to help keep the peace. Try a |
| with friends or family, you will probably be in the | | | | discount music store, or look for a coupon on an |
| market for a good hotel room. Normally, you can | | | | e-coupon site. |
| spend your entire budget on hotels and motels. I | | | | 5. Be easy on the gas pedal. If you are driving, you |
| suggest trying a site like You can name your own | | | | may be concerned about the high gas prices. You can |
| price, and get some really great deals on rooms and | | | | save a significant amount of your gas budget by |
| car rentals. | | | | planning ahead. Make sure that your tires are properly |
| 2. Plan your trip out beforehand. Spend some time | | | | inflated, and that your car is in good working order. |
| mapping out your trip, highlighting areas that you plan | | | | Staying at a constant speed will also help you save |
| to visit. There will most likely be a few pit stops | | | | on your gas bill. |