Cheap Summer Vacations

Whether it's a weekend or a whole summer, you and your family deserve a summer vacation. It can be difficult to find affordable lodging during this popular vacation season. Below you'll find great tips and tricks for getting great deals on summer vacation lodging and rentals.

The Road Less Traveled
Instead of hitting the popular summer vacation spots, consider taking a more unique vacation. You'll find that less populated travel destinations will have much better deals on hotel rooms and resort accomodations. Instead of going to the beach, consider hiking in the Ozarks or exploring the desert. If you must have the beach, consider visiting beautiful beaches that are still relatively top secret, for example: the beaches of the Outer Banks, North Carolina.

Think Outside the Box
If you're willing to be flexible and creative about the types of lodging you can use over the summer, you'll be in a much better position to get a great deal. Consider trying the following:

Subletting- This is a great option if your summer stay will be an extended one. This option can be cost-effective for single people as well as families, since usually there is use of a kitchen and you can save money on restaurant meals. You may be able to get even cheaper rates with subletting if part of the agreement includes housesitting, pet care, etc. You can find sublet listings on various websites. You can search online for the local newspaper of the destination you want to visit and search the classifieds. You can also search by city on Craigslist.org.

Timeshare Resorts - Many owners of timeshares end up renting their resort units out instead of using them. This can be because they aren't able to fit their vacation in to coincide with the time available at their unit, or maybe the family has decided to visit a different destination. You can usually negotiate with timeshare owners for the rent of the unit. You can find websites with classified ad listings of timeshare units available for rental (as well as the opportunity to post what kind of timeshare accomodations you are looking for) by performing a web search for "timeshare rentals." As with subletting, timeshare units usually include kitchens and laundry, thus reducing the cost of your overall trip.
Tip: Many timeshares offer heavily discounted or practically free accomodations to families that are willing to attend a 90-minute timeshare presentation. Call the timeshare resorts in the area of your vacation destination and ask about these offers.

Timing is Everything - If you absolutely must go to the most popular, busiest summer vacation destination, consider going during a more unpopular time. Usually, even popular beach hotels and resorts offer discounted rates during the less-frequented times. Plan your summer trip for the very beginning of summer. You'll beat the rush and save some money. Or, wait until the end of summer, when everyone's gone home. You're guaranteed to have a relaxing time without putting your wallet in hot water!

Whether you're travelling alone or with your entire family, there are plenty of ways to find good deals for lodging during your summer vacation. Do your homework, be flexible with your options, and you'll find a great deal.