Helpful Tips for Today's Busy Families

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Tips to Help Save on Vacations and Travel

Traveling though enjoyable can be expensive.  Because of the current economic times, many families aren't able to take that family vacation that they so need.  Here are few tips to help keep the expenses down and entertainment up.  

When vacationing, save on transportation by staying close to home.

Look for banks that offer traveler's checks as a free service.

Save on air fares by making arrangements ahead of time for special discounts. Read my review on Travelocity.

You can also save on air fares by taking night flights.

If possible, vacation during the "off season" when prices drop.

Eating away from home can be expensive.  Travel with packaged snacks purchased from supermarkets along the way.

Put your newspaper deliveries on hold while away from home.

Never travel on credit unless you can pay the bills when due.

Rental cars are costly.  If possible, drive your own car while on vacation.

Consider sharing vacation homes. It's less costly than hotels.

Investigate "budget hotels" that charge less.  Get details at Hotels.com.

A "camping" vacation is fun and inexpensive. National parks, forest service campgrounds, etc., let you camp free or for just a small fee a night.  

Plan in advance.  Take proper clothing along for the climate you will be experiencing so you won't have to spend vacation money on new clothes.

On business trips, keep records & receipts for all deductible expenses.

If you select accommodations with cooking facilities, you will be able to save considerably on a major expense - food.

Make a vacation budget and stick to it.

Buy "practical" souvenirs that won't end up at future garage sales.

When traveling with pets, take along a good supply of their favorite foods.

Carry a hot plate for fast, economical hot snacks.

Pack wash 'n' wear clothes and use coin operated laundries.

Many wash 'n' wear items can be washed by hand in your hotel room.

Enjoy picnic-style meals in public parks.  Buy food at supermarkets.

Carry a small sewing kit for minor clothing repairs.  Also spot remover.

Take advantage of the free tourist attractions in cities and tourist areas such as free gardens, museums, restored villages, monuments, etc.

Pack a small first aid kit and save on minor scrapes, cuts, bruises, etc.  

Have an auto checkup before you leave.

Leave pets with friends instead of boarding them at kennels.

Take advantage of hotels/motels offering special "family rates".  Get details at Hotels.com.

Keep tank filled so you can shop around for lowest gasoline prices.

Check ahead and reserve the most inexpensive accommodations. Get details at Hotels.com.

On business trips, keep mileage record & gas receipts for tax purposes.

If you have friends or relatives in your vacation area, stay with them.

Consider renting an inexpensive camper or mobile home.

Consider staying home & doing all the things you never had time to do.

Read my Reviews of Travelocity.com, Hotels.com, Cheaptickets.com and Priceline.com

Visit the official site for Travelocity.com, Hotels.com, Cheaptickets.com and Priceline.com.

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Contact the a potential travel destination's Bureau of Travel for a free brochure.  Then file it away in a binder for future Family Vacation planning.

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