by HM Wilson

Created on: July 01, 2009   Last Updated: July 02, 2009

You're ready to kick back and enjoy a bit of summer. How do you get away without breaking the budget?

Enjoying a summer getaway doesn't have to be expensive. Whether you are cross-county or cross-country, there are some easy ways to save on expenses.

The first step really is in choosing where you are going to get away. You may want to skip the popular but overpriced destinations in favor of a getaway that doesn't attract crowds of tourists and the accompanying tourist-targeted prices.

Even if you do choose to go to one of the more popular and pricey destinations, there are ways of getting around the prices. As the cliche goes, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." Or, when in city X, shop and dine where the locals do. It's cheaper, and you will actually have an experience that hasn't been prepackaged and sanitized for your consumption.

There are some other ways of cutting costs or shoring up the budget that do require some advanced planning. For instance, are you a member of a rewards program (i.e., MyPoints)? If so, check those points and see if you can cash in for useful things such as gas cards (if you're driving) for your trip.

Not enough points or you're just signing up for the rewards program? Use the program to shop through for anything you may need for your trip. You will see the savings realized in the form of points that can be used for gift cards in your everyday life.

Also, break out that AAA card, AARP membership or student ID. All of these things entitle you to certain discounts, which can prove to be very useful when traveling.

Driving to a destination? Bring along your own food for the drive and/or supermarkets along the way rather than stopping at fast food joints. It is better for your budget and your health (which, in turn, is good for your budget).

Also, don't over pack. This is important whether you are driving or flying. If driving, carrying the excess weight will cost you fuel economy, which will cause you pain at the pump. If flying, you will get charged for the excess.

If you really must take the stuff along, consider mailing it to your destination. Compare the cost for that against what it will cost you to cart it with you. Mailing it may prove cheaper.

Don't feel the need to buy a bunch of souvenirs. Concentrate on enjoying yourself rather than adding to your collection of material items. If you see something really cool that you will kick yourself later for not buying, get it. However, if it's not something that you're truly fond of, why are you spending the money?

Enjoy the getaway, and leave your cares at home. But do be certain to bring with you the common sense and the sunscreen.

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