Four smart vacation ideas for summer

06.03.09
By Emily Peters

The bad economy doesn’t mean that your family needs to call off a fun summer vacation. According to a recent survey conducted by Kayak.com, 95 percent of people plan to take a trip this summer. And 41 percent said the recession would not impact their summer plans this year (double the number from the same survey in 2008).

There are easy ways to create a sunny break that won’t break your bank. Here are four ideas for planning your own affordable summer vacation:   

1. Take Advantage of Travel Deals – Reduced demand and lower gas prices have generated steep discounts on plane, train, and cruise tickets this summer. International travel is cheaper than it has been in the past few years. Better currency conversion rates mean that your dollar will go further. TIME reports that Iceland, Canada, Australia, Great Britain, and South Korea offer particularly good currency deals this summer. You’ll usually find the biggest savings on travel packages that combine tickets with hotels, car rentals, and other services.

2. Try a Home Exchange – Save big on your family’s vacation hotel costs by setting up a home exchange instead. The easiest and cheapest route is to set up a swap with someone you know. Offer up a switch with an uncle who lives on the coast or a best friend with a cabin in the woods. You can also research home exchange services that connect you with opportunities around the globe for a small fee.

3. Save with a “Staycation” – If you have more time than money this summer, a “staycation” might be the perfect option. Take some time off work to relax with your family in your city or town. Make the most of free summer concerts and festivals. Explore the local museums, get a library card and grab some books, and take advantage of nature in your area with a hike. With a small investment in a hammock, barbeque, and other outdoor accessories, you can make even your own backyard an oasis for the summer.

4. Hit the Road – The good old American road trip is making a comeback. Gas is much more affordable this year than last summer. Whether you’ll be camping or staying in hotels, road trips are an easy and inexpensive way to travel. According to Hotwire.com, San Diego, Philadelphia, Houston, San Francisco, and Dallas are the top five road trip destinations this year.

Whether you’ll be on the beach in Spain or soaking up the sun in a backyard staycation, be sure to plan a fun summer vacation that fits your own budget.

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Plan a fun summer vacation that fits your budget.