by Jennifer Eblin

Created on: September 14, 2007

The kids hear the word "beach" and immediately dance around the room, with visions of Disney World running through their heads, your husband wonder aloud about golf courses in the area, and you're left wistful for a quiet trip to the South of France. The only problem is that you are on a budget, and this year's vacation needs to be fun, without the overpricing of certain beach areas. Now what do you do? You pay attention to some cost saving measures to ensure that everyone has a good trip.

Think outside the box when it comes to beach vacations. A trip to California or Florida might be nice for some, but for those in the Midwest, its nearly impossible on a budget. The Outer Banks of North Carolina has gorgeous beaches and more affordable choices. Or consider a lake retreat. Both Michigan and Indiana have Dunes Parks, and its hard to tell the difference between a beach there and one in a more exotic locale, except for the ocean wildlife. Choosing a lesser known beach can save a lot of money on your budget.

If air travel is a necessity in your budget, look for ways to save money on your flights. Try booking with an online travel retailer, or a company that allows you to "bid" on flights. Many companies offer cheaper flights depending on the date of departure, so try to leave some flexibility in your travel plans. Leaving in the middle of the week is usually much less expensive than traveling on a weekend. And some of the more popular vacation spots offer cheaper rates during the off-season, which makes traveling there significantly less expensive during certain times of the year.

Another way to save money is by choosing an all inclusive beach vacation. Using a package deal allows you to know the entire price of the trip beforehand, from hotel to food, and other activities. Pebbles Resort offers deals, with prices dependent upon where you chose to stay, the length of stay, and the number of children. They also include the option to reserve an adjoining "junior suite" for the kids. The package includes accommodations, a nanny, meals, a free bar, water sports, and a host of other amenities. A two night stay for a family of four starts at just $900.

The choice to stay in a rental home, or an extended stay hotel can be especially budget friendly. A rental property includes a kitchen, and the hotel will at least offer a kitchenette. Cooking dinner there will save on restaurant prices, and preparing a quick snack or lunch will keep the family energized as well as eliminating the need to snack all day from the beach's high priced shops. You can also look into short-term housing in the area. In some cities homeowners rent out their properties for a few weeks every year, and apartment complexes looking to bring in bigger businesses will offer short-term furnished apartments. You have all the features of being at a big hotel, but without the high costs.

Another way to save money is to consider a camping vacation. If tents aren't your idea of relaxation and you don't own a camper, look for campgrounds that rent motorhomes. Some KOA campgrounds rent large motorhomes big enough to comfortable hold up to eight people for less than the price of a hotel.

As long as you stay open and flexible in planning your beach vacation, planning a budget and sticking to it will be no problem.

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