Three Clever Ways to Make Family Travel Cheaper

Tough economic times threaten to foil this year's summer vacation plans for thousands of Americans. But my family isn't allowing the gloomy forecast to steal our summertime reprieve. Creative vacationing is a fit for just about anyone's tight budget.

A national survey by Access America, a travel insurance and assistance provider, concluded that summer vacations will likely decrease 7% this year, from 2007. Only 33% of respondents plan to take a vacation this year, compared with 40% last year.

More than half of respondents who say they won't travel this year cite the shaky economy, gas prices and the weak dollar.

Yes, we too are contending with declining investments and the rising costs of food and commuting expenses. But come August, you'll find my five-person family vacationing in Vermont's Green Mountains, a week that we look forward to every year.

We, and other people, have discovered a number of ways to cut corners.

Rent a Timeshare

This option, I estimate, saves us anywhere from 30% to 50% off traditional resort accommodations.

We not only save money, but our lodging is more comfortable and roomy than typical hotel rooms. We typically enjoy a large, two-bedroom unit with a spacious kitchen. Ordering take-out food and making easy meals stretches our dollars.

You can find thousands of rentals posted by timeshare owners at My Resort Network and RedWeek. Both sites include listings for locations worldwide, and probably something within your budget.