If you've been saving or if you've got a tax refund coming, you might be starting to plan a vacation for the family or a couple's getaway. How can you plan a great vacation without breaking the budget? There are several things to think about while you're still in the planning stages.
PARKING. If you're travelling to a bigger city, don't forget to plan for parking fees. Some hotels include free on-site parking. Others charge for self parking or valet parking. If you're going away for a week, there's a big difference between free parking and $20 per day valet.
FRIDGE. If you want to cut your meal budget by packing lunches or eating cold cereal for breakfast, it's a lot easier to keep groceries in a mini fridge in your room than to lug the cooler around and keep filling it with ice. Many times, you can ask for a hotel room with a fridge and it doesn't cost more than one without.
TRAVEL WEBSITES. Instead of booking the same place you've always vacationed, compare hotels and airfares online. CLICK HERE for 4 ways to save on airfare.
TRAVEL AGENT. If you don't want to spend a lot of time comparing prices online or making phone calls, consider a travel agent. A travel agent can put together some great trips for you and has access to packages that you don't. I once planned a trip to Disney because I got park tickets as a gift. My travel agent got me a great deal on airfare and hotel with a package that also included admission to a local water park and vouchers for lots of other local entertainment options... all for a SUPER price!