How to Take an Inexpensive Vacation

Does taking a vacation seem out of your reach? Vacations do not have to be pricey or flashy to be effective. The idea for most people is to get away from the daily grind, have a change of scenery, seek out some adventure and have someone else do the cooking and cleaning, even if it is only for a few days. This article will have you planning your inexpensive vacation in clever ways you never thought possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   A little planning now can help you avoid disappointment later on.

   Decide where you want to go and be realistic about the time and money you can spend. Vacations don't just happen through wishful thinking. You do have to plan the when, where and how your vacation will occur. Grab some brochures from the backs of magazines or sign up online for newsletters. Check the reviews of the places you want to go so you will not waste your money on a less than satisfactory destination.

2. 
   A little change now can add up to a nice vacation later.

   Take a look at your budget. If you do not have any leftover spending money, consider depositing change you receive each day or week into a change jar. You will be surprised at how pennies can turn into dollars quickly. Most banks offer what they refer to as "vacation clubs" as well, where your deposits can only be withdrawn for vacation and travel-related expenses.

3. 
   Business travel does not have to be all business.

   If possible, have the vacation coincide with a work or business function. This way some of the expenses will be taken care of or may be written off later on.

4. 
   Take a well-earned vacation.

   Try to earn your vacation. Some workplaces or businesses offer vacations or even cruises as prizes or rewards for surpassing a certain amount in sales, clients, or bringing in new business. Inquire at the office whether or not you would qualify.

5. 
   Park, sleep, fly is the way to go.

   Consider driving or taking the bus instead of flying. Figure out the number of people attending and the amount of miles and see what would work out best. Go on the Internet to find the best fares at several of the best travel websites. Sometimes you are best off going directly to the airline's website. If you must fly because of the distance or time considerations, try traveling to a different airport up to 100 miles away from home to see if you will get a lower fare. Some discount airlines only fly out of specific cities. If you do not want all that stress in one day, consider a "park, sleep, fly" deal from major cities such as Atlanta, Boston, Montreal, and Chicago. For a discounted rate, you park your car for the entire time of your trip, sleep overnight in a hotel and fly out of a nearby airport. You fly out rested and have no worries about airport transportation.

6. 
   Continental breakfast example.

   Consider dining expenses while you are away. This can "eat up" your money quickly. Try to book a hotel that includes continental breakfast and eat snacks during the day. You can also share meals since most portions are enough for two or three anyway. Many restaurants do not charge for sharing, but always ask to be sure. This can often stretch you to dinner. Set a food budget ahead of time. Watch Rachel Ray's TV show "$40 a Day" to get more ideas. Always ask the locals where to get good, inexpensive meals. This is not only fun, but saves you wasting money on a meal you will not really enjoy. It is also a good idea to have a hotel with a fridge and microwave or better yet, book a business traveler type suite with a mini kitchen. You can do some minor meal preparation right in your own room.

7. 
   Bring your own bottled water.

   If you are visiting a theme park, fair or other venue, consider carrying water along with you and refilling the bottles as you go. Sodas and other drinks can blow your budget quickly if you are not careful and they do not quench your thirst.

8. Visit your family and friends. Often they will let you stay with them and help with meals. Sometimes this is the best entertainment.

9. Visit national and local parks and go for hikes and explore. Being outside and exercising can bring relaxation like nothing else can.

10. Borrow or rent a camper as your housing is all taken care of. You can also pack along food or go out to eat. Having a campfire in the evening is a great form of entertainment and a way to reconnect with nature. Many campgrounds also offer entertainment and games on the weekend. Choose a campground with a pool and other sports if you enjoy that.

11. Borrow or buy a coupon book for your destination. These are often packed with 2-for-1 meals, entertainment discounts and provide attraction discounts as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack snacks, sandwiches and bottled water ahead of time for car trips.
• <br>Check auction sites for tickets and lodging if you know specifically where you want to go. Just realize there is risk involved in this.
• Consult your tax advisor to find out exactly what tax write-offs you are entitled to while traveling for business.

[vallain]

on 8/31/2008 These are all good ideas. I've always wanted to try a home exchange with someone overseas.