Just because your travel dollars are limited, doesn't mean your family can't enjoy a fun-filled vacation. With a little forethought, you and your kids can plan a getaway that won't break the bank. Here are some tips for budgeting during a vacation.

PLANNING AHEAD
Advance work is the key to saving money on travel. First, you should determine how much you can afford to spend and set a budget. Then you can begin planning the fun stuff: when and where to go and what to do once you're there. For more money-saving tips and planning advice for your vacation, read Budgeting for a Family Vacation.

WHEN TO TRAVEL
If your family is flexible about when you can travel, you'll have the most luck finding bargains. Even if spring break, the summer months, or the winter holidays are the only time you can get away, you can still find vacations that won't cost an arm and a leg. For example, spring and fall are "shoulder seasons" at most resorts, and you'll find reduced rates and perhaps special packages during these periods. Summer, on the other hand, is the least expensive time to visit Florida, Arizona, and Hawaii, and winter is the time for bargains at many national parks. For travel to Disney World and other Florida theme parks, January, May, and the fall are the slowest and therefore best times to find deals on lodging. If you like active vacations, many ski resort areas feature hiking, biking, and other outdoor recreation during the summer months and offer lodging at up to half off winter rates.

WHERE TO STAY
Lodging is going to be your greatest expense in nearly any vacation, but it is also the area in which you'll have the most opportunities to save money. The options for lodging are probably greater than you think.

URBAN ADVENTURE: If you are planning a city vacation, you'll probably want to opt for a hotel, but make sure you find one where kids stay free (most major chains) and where the rooms are equipped with a fridge and/or a microwave (more on meals later). You may even want to consider a suite hotel, where the rooms feature kitchenettes and you'll have a little more space to spread out. Hotels and motels just outside a city's limits will be less expensive than downtown locations. When making reservations at any location, don't assume that the first price you are quoted is the best. Ask about specials and best rates--you may be surprised. Also if you are staying at a national chain you may do better calling the specific property rather than the main reservations number. Check with your destination's Chamber of Commerce or Convention and Visitors Bureau for lists of accommodations. (Hint: many CVBs have Web deals on their sites.) To find out about hotel deals across the country log on to Places to Stay. You may also want to visit Expedia and Travelocity where you may find better rates than if you call the hotels directly.

COASTAL OR MOUNTAIN RETREAT: If you are planning to escape to the coast or the mountains and plan to stay for more than a couple of days, you should seriously consider renting a house or a condominium. With a full kitchen, you will save a considerable amount on meals. If you have a large family or plan on traveling with grandparents, other relatives, or friends, you can probably find a spacious rental that will be economical for everyone. Plus, with more space, your kids are less likely to get cabin fever and you'll spend less trying to keep them entertained. Many areas offer rentals by the week during high season, with the option of shorter stays in the off season.

BACK TO NATURE: Camping is probably the ultimate bargain, but if you don't have the equipment or the desire to pitch a tent, many parks offer other options. State park cabins are a great option for budget-minded families. Found in parks in every state, these units may be rustic with few amenities or they may be modern with full kitchens and linens. They will cost less than private rentals and you will have many recreational opportunities in your backyard. Lodges (again, rustic to modern) can also be found in a number of state and national parks. Many state's departments of natural resources and parks divisions have Web sites featuring their parks; for national park information log on to the National Park Service.

Other inexpensive lodging choices for families include home-exchanges, and even lighthouses. The Internet can be a great resource for researching these options, but also be sure to check with the Chamber of Commerce or Convention and Visitors Bureau at your destination to make sure your choice gets a thumbs up.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.