Affordable and Easy Getaways

Lots of people are in debt because they make things complicated. You make things complicated when you can’t afford simple. Buying a car with cash is simple. But since most people don’t have cash, they go into car debt and get complicated.

There is no point in getting complicated when it comes to vacation. Your time off should be simple and enjoyable; it shouldn’t cost so much money that you worry about paying for it. Since we’re in the thick of vacation season, here are some simple suggestions to give you time with the family and away from the daily grind, even for a short while.

Pick places within a day’s drive. You may want a change of scenery, but that doesn’t mean you have to go from Florida to Arizona. Most people can find a nice, relaxing spot to have fun within 100 miles of home. Consider visiting a campground (see below), the park or a lake. If you pack lunch and come back the same day, there are no food or lodging bills.

Get back to nature. OK, we admit … camping isn’t for everyone. But it’s still a cheap alternative that can give you some great family time as well as the chance to experience the outdoors. Get the tents and sleeping bags ready and hit the woods!

Have fun around town. Do some brainstorming with your family or friends and come up with five or ten things that you all want to do during the day or over the weekend. Remember, the only off-limits stuff is the pricey stuff. Putt-putt golf, renting a book or movie from the library, fishing, or heading to the zoo are all fun, inexpensive outings.

Take them out to the ball game. If you’ve got a minor league sports team in or near your town, a game can be a great mini-getaway. Make it a day-long event. Take the scenic route to get there. And don’t take any calls from the office—you are on vacation!

These are some suggestions. You know your family and your town, so get creative and find a way to get away, without letting your money slip away!

Source: Kiplinger.com, CNN.com