by Dean Holmes

Created on: August 21, 2007

Driving to your vacation destination is like a vacation in itself. They say that "getting there is half the fun", and they are right. Whoever they are.

Like most families, saving money is always welcome when planning a vacation. Before loading up your family car or SUV and hitting the open road, it's a very good idea to do some research of areas around your planned route of travel.

Here are a few things to look at that can save you a substantial amount of money:

1. Drive the speed limit. Are you in a hurry to get where you're going? Likely not, it's vacation time! By keeping your speed at 60mph (100km/h) you will use about 15% less fuel than if you were driving at 75mph (120km/h).

2. Research fuel stops. It is convenient to stop right off the highway and fuel up, sure...but a little jaunt closer to a small town may net you a savings of 5-10 cents per gallon (3 to 5 cents per litre) or even more. Check online at www.gasbuddy.com for the cheapest fuel stations in that particular area.

3. Stay in budget motels. On the way down, you don't really need a fancy 5-star hotel just to sleep in for a few hours before heading out. Pick an economy lodging chain such as Motel 6 or Knights Inn. You can find rooms in establishments like these for around $40-50 per night. Also have your co-pilot keep their eyes open for billboards with discounted rates. Check rest areas and truck stops will for hotel discount booklets; these are filled with coupons valid at hotels throughout your journey. If at all possible, book rooms online. You can save as much as $10 a night by choosing an internet user's rate if it is available.

4. Watch what you eat. Bring food from home and pack a cooler with sandwiches or salads, cold drinks and the like. It is also a good idea to stop at a supermarket and purchase ready-to-eat meals, either hot or cold. There are plenty of picnic areas along the highways for you to take a break and prepare a decent meal for the family. Fast food isn't always an option, so this is a great alternative. Better for you too. *NOTE: if you are traveling across an international border, for example going from Canada into the USA, you will not be allowed to take fruits or meats of any kind across the border. Wait until you cross to buy these items.

5. Extend your driving day. If you are driving over 1000 miles (1600km) to your destination, take turns driving with another person. A trip that would normally result in 2 or 3 motel rooms per night can be cut back to 1 or 2 simply by driving longer or through the night. Remember to be alert if driving through the night and if at all tired, stop for the night and continue once you are all well rested.

6. Plan rest stops. Chances are you will be driving through major metropolitan areas, and there will be traffic jams. If possible, stop before entering a major city to let rush hour traffic ease up. You will use more fuel in traffic jams, as well there is far less stress. You will need to stop anyway, so you may as well make your trip efficient.

Simple choices such as these can maximize your budget and make your journey easier. Take those extra bucks saved and treat the kids to an extra activity you didn't originally plan. It's vacation time...make it a safe and memorable one.

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