Even when you are watching your budget, you can still enjoy a summer get-away without spending a fortune. Whether you long for a trip to the beach or a hike in the mountains, with a bit of planning and research ahead of time you can enjoy a fabulous summer vacation without breaking the bank.

Set a Budget

Before you determine your summer get-away destination, set a maximum budget for your vacation. Be realistic and honest about what you feel you can afford to spend. The budget should be all inclusive including costs for travel, car rental, gas, food, lodging, entertainment and souveniers. With your budget in hand, determine what destinations are possible within your summer get-away budget.

Save on Lodging

If possible, choose a summer get-away location where you may be able to spend a few nights staying with friends or family. Be sure to reward them for their hospitality with a nice dinner or gift and do not stay longer than you are welcome.

If staying with friends or family is not an option, consider staying at a budget hotel. Many offer continental breakfast to make the hotel an even better value. Other affordable lodging options include renting a cabin or camping.

Before choosing your lodging, check the local chamber of commerce web site for any lodging specials. Shop around for lodging deals by utilizing web sites such as Hotels.com, TripAdvisor.com or Orbitz.com. Once you find a hotel or cabin within your budget, consider calling the hotel directly to see if they are offering any specials for the time period you will be in town.

Save on Entertainment

Consider doing free activities once you arrive at your vacation destination. Hiking at area parks or strolling the streets of a quaint town, cost nothing but can provide hours of enjoyment. For beach goers, spend time collecting shells or relaxing on the beach.

Search out free family activities at your summer get-away destination. You may be surprised to find several museums with free admission or free walking tours that give you a taste of the rich history. Research scenic drives in the area that let you take in the scenery without spending a fortune on a guided tour. Check the event calendar for you vacation location to see if there are any free music concerts in a local park or festivals to enjoy while you are in town.

Save on Food

Check out area restaurants and reviews before you arrive to your summer get-away destination. Many restaurants feature their full menu on their web site giving you a chance to budget meals ahead of time. You will also be able to download and print off any coupons or take advantage of mid-day or happy hour specials for the days you'll be in town.

Bring along snack foods and beverages to help stretch your food dollars. Take advantage of continental breakfast at your hotel to reduce your food expenses as well. Try eating snacks you packed and one big meal out each day to help minimize food costs. Stick to your planned food budget by eating fast food some days of vacation and enjoying nice meals at sit-down restaurants on other days.

With a little planning and research ahead of time, you can enjoy an affordable summer get-away. Set your budget and get planning your get-away before the days of summer slip away.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Roltgen.
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