SUMMER VACATIONS ON A TIGHT BUDGET   Summer vacations are a great chance to make memories, enjoy family time, and just get away from it all. Unfortunately, having the money to pay for that grand vacation can be more of a challenge. You can take a great summer vacation even if you don’t have a big budget though, if you shop and plan well for your trip.   One of the best options to help you save on a summer vacation is to stay near home. Perhaps taking a few days to explore a nearby city or a camping trip at a lake close by would be a great summer vacation option. With gas prices being high and trouble in the airline industry, getting to your destination can be one of the major costs of a vacation and staying a bit closer to home may allow you to save money for other expenses on your trip.   You can also take advantage of inexpensive online booking sites, like priceline.com or hotwire.com to find affordable hotel rooms and flights for your budget summer vacation. Often, sites like these can help you to get a much nicer room at a lower cost. You might even want to consider camping. Many national and state parks have affordable campgrounds, and if you have friends or family who camp, you might be able to borrow the necessary gear.   Other savings strategies to take a summer vacation on a tight budget can apply to anyone. Eating simply while traveling can help to cut your costs. Consider reserving a room with a mini-fridge or even a kitchenette. Some hotels offer an included breakfast with your room, or you may want to consider packing a cooler and eating breakfast in the hotel. Purchasing snacks and even simple lunch foods at a local grocery store can also cut your food costs while traveling.   Memberships to certain organizations, including AAA at aaa.com can provide you with some valuable travel discounts. You may also find it worthwhile, particularly if traveling with kids, to consider whether some local attractions like zoos and children’s museums have reciprocal arrangements with similar attractions elsewhere. This can provide you with free or discounted admissions to attractions around the country. Multi-day passes to amusement parks are often one cost effective strategy, and promotional discounts may be available, particularly to smaller parks or if you plan to visit multiple parks in one area.   You can keep summer vacation costs down and still make great memories. Shop smart and plan smart, and you’ll find that your vacation is more fun than financial worry.   -- © http://www.BankLady.com