Tip 1: Saving Money on Vacation

I know this tip has nothing to do with recipes, menus, or any other food related topic, but I thought it was worth sharing. When I was a kid, our family took a 2 week vacation every other year. Most of these ideas came from watching how my mom planned and prepared for vacations.

• Don't rush to book accommodations, make sure you look around for the best deal. I was able to get a 2 room whirlpool suite with refrigerator and microwave for $87/night (taxes included) by looking for deals on slickdeals.net. Also, know what you are looking for in a room (bed size, sofa sleeper, whirlpool, refrigerator, microwave, or just a coffee pot).


• Sign up for visitor's guides to all of the places you plan to visit. Many guides have coupons in them for area attractions, restaurants, and hotels.


• Plan ahead of time what attractions you plan to visit and on what day. Some attractions cost less or more depending on what day of the week you visit them.


• Pack your own snacks, drinks, etc. for in the car. It's a lot cheaper to bring your own than it is to buy them at a gas station or convenient store. If you know you won't have time to bake muffins, cookies, etc. the day before you leave, bake and freeze them a week or two in advance.