Family Reunions

• Rent a large beach house and have the whole family chip in.

• Meet at Grandma and Grandpa's house for their 50th anniversary.

• Schedule an upcoming reunion around a wedding so everyone can share in the joy.

History Tours

• Tour the old town cobblestone streets of Boston or majestic Ellis Island in New York City.

• If you'd like the kids to learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition take them to The End of the Trail in Seaside, Oregon.

• The Smithsonian and other Washington, D.C. museums can also be an excellent educational family getaway.

• For a bit of world history, research Rome, Italy and wander among ancient monuments.

Camping

• If you're low on funds, have a neighborhood campout over a summer weekend. Your own backyard is the perfect place to roast marshmallows and stargaze, or reserve a campsite at your local state park.

• Go camping in one of over 1000 National Parks in the United States. Get a yearly pass and you can enter any park in America.

• The Appalachian Trail spans 13 states and is ideal for camping and hiking for a fantastic family vacation.

Amusement Parks

• Disneyland and Disney World are perfect theme parks for any family.

• Sea World, Six Flags, and Knott's Berry Farm are also family favorites. They are a relatively cheaper option depending on how many days you plan to visit.

• Check locally for state or county fairs that feature amusement rides, rodeos, and other activities.

Cruising

• Disney Cruise Line is perfect for families. Some destinations offer a Kids Sail Free option. Remember to budget extra money for excursions off the ship.

• Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line also have many onboard activities and fun for the whole family.

• If cruising is not an option, you could rent your own boat and hang out on the lake for the weekend.

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1. Sleeping Bag

Get a comfortable, high-quality sleeping bag that will keep kids warm. You can add a foam pad to the inside of the bag to keep it from getting dirty.

2. Extra Clothing

You should pack an outfit for every day, including an assortment of jeans, shorts, T-shirts, and PJ's, and of course a swimsuit. Pack one extra outfit just in case there's a food fight or an unexpected rainstorm.

3. Comfortable Shoes

A pair of sturdy hiking boots or sneakers are ideal, but don't forget flip-flops for walking to and from the lake. And remember to pack plenty of socks.

4. Rain Gear

It doesn't matter if your kids are in a cabin or tent; they may get wet. Be sure to pack a raincoat or poncho with a hood.

5. Personal Hygiene Kit

Basically a travel-size water-proof pouch that can hold a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hairbrush and face wash. You can even include lip balm, sunscreen, a hat, and bug repellant.

6. Journal/Paper/Pens

For the artistic child, pack a sketchbook or journal. There should be quiet time. Kids need time to sit and record thoughts, draw, or take notes about something they've learned. Colored pencils or pens are a plus.

7. Pictures/Posters

Sometimes kids have a hard time being away from their parents. You can pack a family picture they can hang up so they won't feel so lonely. Also, a positive affirmation poster can brighten a kid's day, or a poster from their own room can remind them of home.

8. Games

A deck of cards for a quiet game of Solitaire or Uno just in case the kids want to play a quick game before bed.

9. Camera

A disposable camera is perfect for kids to take some pictures and make their own memories.

10. A Positive Attitude

This can be the most important thing your child can bring to camp, and it doesn't take up any room in their bags. If they want to have the best camping experiences they have to believe they will. You can give them a pep talk about having a great time, but it is ultimately up to them.

One more thing to include in your kids gear is a letter from you. Write a love note and hide it in the bottom of their sleeping bag or in the hygiene kit. This will let them know you're thinking of them. Camp can teach your children to learn about their world, be responsible, and make new friends. With these 10 items, your child is sure to have a great camp experience!

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1. Plan Ahead

• Vote on where to go, and plan it out at least six months to a year in advance.

• Research your chosen destination as best as you can.

• Go on-line and read reviews for nearby hotels and restaurants.

• Search for age appropriate activities, and learn about any blackout dates or weather restrictions.

2. Set Up a Savings Account

• Determine when you will take your vacation, and then start depositing a certain amount of money into a savings account each month. Many cruise companies and amusement parks let you make a down payment to reserve your spot.

• Use a credit card that offers travel perks or airline miles.

• Consider using a tax refund to help finance the trip.

• Get the kids involved by collecting loose change in a designated jar.

3. Make Technology Work for You

• Check with a local travel agency and have them help plan the trip.

• Sign up on-line for travel alerts or discounts.

• Download a mobile application for your phone that can also send you a text message if there are airline price reductions or sales events.

• Use an on-line vacation calculator to help you budget.

4. Be Frugal

• Give each member of the family some 'mad money' to spend however they want.

• When your money is gone, it's gone.Think twice about souvenirs, which are most likely more expensive than they need to be. If you really want something to remember your trip to the beach, write your name in the sand and take a few pictures. Or if you need something tangible, take home some seashells.

• Go to hotels that offer a free continental breakfast and take advantage of it. It's one less meal you need to fund.

• When it comes to saving money on meals, cruise ships are all-inclusive, and are still the most budget friendly family vacation of choice.

5. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

• Read the fine print and be aware of additional fees. Parking at airports or cruise terminals can be as high as $18 per day.

• Pack an emergency kit complete with first aid supplies, flares, extra clothing, and plenty of water.

• Opt for travel insurance. It could literally save you thousands of dollars if you or a family member needed medical attention.

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