Five Ways To Save On Family Vacations (NAPSA)—Even though you ——_ - and may be itching to hit the beach, take a cross-country road trip or hop a plane for Disneyland, your wallet might want to take a holi- day of its own. Airfares are at their highest level since 2000 and gas prices have set all-time records across the nation. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to not only save on vacation costs but to also have fun planning that special getaway. “Kids influence family choices all the time—including where they go on vacation,” said Emily Kaufman, family travel expert with Best Western who’s also knownas The Travel Mom. “Being part of this process helps them understand the concept of saving money while giving them the opportunity to help shape the trip at the sametime.” Kaufman suggests the following five ways to save on your fam- ily’s vacation without breaking the bank: 1. Be flexible. Summertime is peak season for many coastal and amusement park destinations. Therefore, the more flexible your travel dates are, the morelikely you are to save. Take yourtrip in mid- to late August, for example, and you'll trim your costs while benefiting from lighter crowds. 2. Choose a hotel with in-room refrigerators. A trip to the local supermarket to stock up on snacks will help you eliminate both hunger pangs and deep cuts into your budget. 3. Take advantage of airline and hotel loyalty programs. By Kids love to help plan the family vacation because it lets them have a voice in determining whereto go and whatto do. sticking with one airline and one hotel chain when traveling for business and pleasure, you'll earn perks such as free flights and free nightsfaster. For example, members of Best Western’s free Gold Crown Club International program can benefit from a special summer promotion: Stay a total of six nights at any of its hotels around the world between June 29 and August 12, 2007 and earn a collectible Nickelodeon “The Fairly OddParents” Best Western Travel Card worth $50 that can be applied toward any future stay. 4. Consider booking packages that combine airfare, hotel and/or car rental, which makeit easier to plan your trip and oftentimes save money. 5. Look into hotels that also offer amusement options such as water parks or bowling alleys. These amenities and services provide hours of entertainment for kids after the day’s other activities are completed.
