Getting ready for a budget vacation

Most of us work very hard all year just to be able to afford
those one or two weeks away. Therefore, it just makes sense to
get the very best deal you can on that one or two week getaway.
There are a number of ways to make your vacation as pleasant as
it can be, yet still affordable enough for you to do it all over
again without waiting another entire year.

There are a number of important expenses to going on vacation,
and it is important to minimize each one in order to squeeze the
largest possible value out of those limited vacation dollars. It
is also important to determine where your priorities lie, and to
plan your vacation appropriately. For instance, if you
absolutely must have a hotel with an indoor pool, you might want
to skimp a bit on meals by eating at budget eateries or even
cooking in your room, in order to allow yourself the freedom to
spend more on a hotel where you can lounge by the pool to your
heart's delight.

On the other hand, if fancy meals out are a big part of your
vacation dream, why not try saving a few bucks by seeking out a
budget hotel? This will provide you with a clean, safe place to
stay, while giving you some extra dollars to splurge on great
appetizers or a scrumptious dessert.

Just like many other aspects of life, planning a great vacation
on a limited budget is a matter of tradeoffs. It is important to
determine your own vacation priorities and to plan accordingly.
Of course, if the family is traveling together, it is important
to take everyone's own priorities and wishes into account.
Failing to do so can mean you will end up with a car full of
surly children or an irritated spouse.

It is important to plan everything as far ahead as possible, as
the best airfare deals, car rental rates and hotel prices are
likely to be snapped up pretty quickly. It is a good idea to
start shopping for airfares and hotels in your chosen
destination at least a couple of months prior to your desired
date of departure. If the prices on airfare or hotel seem high,
be sure to shop around to see if you can find lower prices on
the internet or at your local travel agent.

Also be sure to sign up for special low fare alerts or
newsletters which detail hot travel deals. Being the first to
know about great deals is a great way to get the best deal on
your long awaited vacation.