by Erik Van Tongerloo

Created on: February 01, 2007   Last Updated: October 17, 2008

Almost everyone looks forward for taking a family vacation. It is a good opportunity to relax after a period of hard work and to get rid of all the stress. Planning is in these uncertain economic times more important than many years ago. The increase of oil prices has an influence in everyone's budget but the good news is you can plan with some inspiration and some effort a family vacation that everyone can enjoy.

Before your start planning your family vacation it is important to calculate the budget you can afford and to check your expenses stay within your budget but create a financial cushion for unexpected expenses. Here are some suggestions which may help you to plan your family vacation:

* Start early with planning and avoid peak periods. There is a lot of information available if your browse different Internet sites or you visit your tour agency. Some travel agencies offer discounts if you book early and they give also special offers in certain periods of the year. The prices in peak periods, for example July and August or the Christmas or Easter period can be very expensive. It is preferable to plan in May or September for getting the best deals. There is only one problem, if you travel with your children they have to go to school during this time of year but there are always packages and discounts available and it is worthwhile to check them for saving money.

* If you are planning a city trip, for example London, Paris, Vienna or some other destinations; you can best book a hotel which is not located in the centre of the city. The prices in the centre are much higher compared outside the downtown area but try to find a hotel where you have easy access to the main sights you want to visit. There are more ways you can save in these cities; sometimes it is good idea to check if there are air/hotel packages available which can reduce the costs for the visits you want to plan in these cities.

* National parks- There is plenty of choice in natural parks and are suitable for a budget vacation with your children. The Grand Canyon national park and the Rocky Mountains offer vacations for every budget. These natural parks offer beautiful views and attractions for children as well as adults. Both national parks are located in the American continent but also other continents have natural parks where you can spend a nice vacation for a low budget.

* Flexibility- If you want to take a vacation on a budget, some flexibility is required. You can't expect to fly to another

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