Believe it or not, the most stressful part of family vacationing is not the long line at the airport.  In fact, most vacation stress is caused by money.  Here are some SIMPLE TIPS to avoid a budget crisis and still get the most out of your vacation.

1) Make reservations at least 30 days in advance.
    I know, this sounds simple enough.  But it's a fact that it can be difficult to coordinate vacation dates for a whole family.  The sooner you can set the dates, the more chance you have of getting the resort you want at the lowest rate available.  Booking early saves you money and gives you more time to set the rest of your budget in place.

2) Know your priorities and stick to them.
    If you are coming to Orlando to visit Disney and ride roller coasters, you will probably not be able to afford a 5-star restaurant every night.  Take care of your biggest priority first -- whether it's buying theme park tickets or reserving a few days at our PGA-rated golf courses.  When you have those expenses covered, you are ready to work with what's left.

3) Avoid dining out for every meal. 
    It is truly amazing how much breakfast for four at an IHOP can be.  Now multiply that $30 bill by 3, if you will be eating out for every meal.  Now multiply it by 7.  You have now spent over $600 feeding your family for one week.  Surprised?  We suggest you take advantage of the complimentary breakfast at your hotel or resort if offered.  If not, use your fridge to hold fresh fruit, juice, and milk, and buy a few boxes of cereal.  You'll save over $150 on one meal alone.  Better yet, rent a Resort Room with a complete kitchen and save even more!

4) Theme Parks - A Family Budget Buster.
     We love theme parks!  We love roller coasters!  We love Movie Characters!  We love castles and monsters!  We love buying water for $3 per bottle...  There are many reasons to love theme parks, but food and drink prices are not among them.  Save money by bringing a clear water bottle for each family member, to be refilled periodically at water fountains all over the parks.  Pack a few non-perishable, healthy snacks to help avoid between-meal stops.  Bringing water and snacks can save your family over $50 per day at the parks.  One more tip - get souvenirs on International Drive to save about 50% off retail.

5) Buy it all before you get here.
    Buy film, cameras, batteries, tapes, sunscreen, and diapers/wipes at home.  You'll save money by avoiding the high cost of film and disposables at the theme parks, and the high park markups for necessities.

6) Emergencies happen.  Be prepared.
    No one likes to think about it, but people do occasionally get sick on vacation.  Notify your insurance provider that you will be leaving and get information and maps for the hospital(s) to use before leaving home.  It likely will cost you nothing to be prepared - and if something does happen, the bills will be a lot less expensive when you get back.

We hope these tips, and the other tips available in similar guides, help your family save money on your next vacation.  Don't forget to shop on eBay for Resort Rooms, Luggage, Video Cameras, and other travel essentials -- to start saving before you leave home!

Save on Vacation Lodgings    -- Resort Discounts
Save on Luggage & Supplies  -- Find Luggage Sets
Save on Cameras/Camcorders -- Make Memories

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