These days, times can be difficult. Since price of gas increased, the rippling effects have been felt by all in many different ways. It may seem that having a great vacation is not as easy as it once was. Here are a few tips so to have a good vacation without breaking the bank.

*For a day outing at the park/fair/beach, the following tips are useful:

Check with local businesses (e.g. restaurants, credit unions) for coupon discounting admission
Coordinate with other families and buy tickets together to receive the group rate
Pack lunches
Divide family size bag of chips or cookies into smaller snack size plastic zipper seal bags for each person
Freeze bottles of favorite beverage so that as the ice melts, there is a cool drink

*To save money when traveling long distances, the following tips are useful:
o Check rest areas along the travel route for attraction and motel discounts when driving to destination
o At motel check-in, look for area attraction displays to obtain coupons for parks, museums, and local restaurants
o Use a discount, but reputable, Internet site to make reservations and receive money saving coupons from area businesses
o Book packaging traveling services together (like air, hotel, car rental) to receive additional discounts
o Stay at an extended stay hotel (all rooms have kitchenette for the same price as regular room hotels) and cook meals instead of eating out everyday
o Look for hotels that offer deluxe or full breakfast
o Use low price air carriers for airline tickets
o Look for last minute deals and get the best airfare prices, hotel room, and cruise room rates

Learn more about this author, Amaryllis Holloway.
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