by Jordan Green

Created on: November 07, 2009   Last Updated: March 05, 2010

Thanksgiving is a glorious celebration meant to be treasured and enjoyed by every member of the family. Football and turkey are just a few of the memorable moments built during Thanksgiving. Unforgettable memories of time with family are what make the season remarkable. Departing on a vacation to visit family is a great idea for any time of year, especially Thanksgiving.

Cheap family vacations are possible for anyone on a tight budget. These money-saving tips will make wisely conserving cash an easy and convenient part of your Thanksgiving trip. The best way to save this season is by keeping the schedule flexible. Peak weekend and holiday travel times cost extra money. Call the airlines and find out the best time to fly. If at all possible, adjust your schedule at work and plan your trip around the busiest times.

Avoiding travel during the peak rush will also help, by saving cash on car rentals and hotel costs. Check hotel and car-rental websites like Expedia, Independent Traveler, and Priceline for all the best deals, coupons and offers. Weekend and holiday hotel and car rental rates usually increase dramatically. Traveling during the main rush costs too much money for anyone on a tight budget.

If your destination is flexible, that's another great way to save. During Thanksgiving, most travelers have already decided where they're going. But if you and your family are flexible, top destinations are often cheaper and more available during the holiday season. Do some research and avoid the place everyone's raving about. Look around and find a gorgeous destination with less fanfare and save extra cash.

Conserve even more money by joining more friends and family. Share hotel suites, lodge rooms, cabins, or an RV. Stay at hostels instead of hotels. Your wallet will notice the substantial difference, and hostels are often even better than most hotels, usually with a giant well-furnished kitchen.

Another option to keep that vacation budget in check is by using travel clubs. With Vacations To Go, Moment's Notice, and the ever-popular Traveler's Advantage, you'll find special deals and costs cuts to save on gas, car rentals, air fare, hotels and more.

Home Exchange Worldwide and HomeExchange.com provide a matching service to help you find a compatible trade for your vacation. Meet new friends, save on hotel costs, and stay in a nice home for your vacation. It's easier and cheaper than you think. Try a home exchange and save while living better.

Enjoy your vacation this Thanksgiving, while joyfully avoiding guilt pains from your wallet!

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