How to spend wisely this summer when traveling

edited by Madelyn Miller, the TravelLady

Whether hitting the road, taking to the skies or staying close to home this summer, being a budget-wise traveler is easy when you keep a few tips and smart strategies in mind.

Leverage your rewards programs

No doubt you probably have signed up in the past for a hotel loyalty or frequent traveler program or a credit card that earns rewards. Check all these programs before booking travel or hitting the road. Hotel programs usually require staying in certain properties and some airlines allow miles to be converted for hotel stays. These can be great deals if you know exactly what you're looking for, but cash-equivalent perks like the Cashback Bonus program from Discover offer the most flexibility.

If you have a Discover card, you can get 5 percent "cash-back" on hotel bookings from July through September. Julie Loeger, a spokesperson for Discover, says the company times this deal and other cash back rewards during the season when customers are most likely to benefit.

"Cardmembers get 5 percent cashback for their summer purchases made at restaurants, gas stations, movie theatres, theme parks and hotels," she says.

Save at the pump

Gas prices are projected to increase again this summer. To save money, drivers are best off by doing a bit of research before buying.

Web sites like MSNAutos.com and GasBuddy.com can help you navigate to the nearest bargains; a quick search can find gas stations less than a mile apart with 30 cents per gallon price difference, saving fuel and time. In-car navigation systems, like the Sirius Travel Link in Ford models, often have the ability to list gas stations by price and location on the in-dash screen. It's estimated that filling up for less every time could result in more than $200 saved each year.

Drivers can also save by maximizing deals offered by hotels and local tourist organizations. The convention and visitor's bureau at your destination may have fuel-related specials for stays lasting longer than a weekend. And, many hotels offer special gas promotions for guests arriving by car - typically a voucher or gift card - so ask your hotel or inn if they have any offers when making reservations.

Low-budget luxury lodging

During the recession, hotels were hit especially hard. To lure back customers, many properties are renovating and refurbishing rooms to like-new condition to attract vacationers. Many also are offering amazing discounts, but it's essential for consumers to know where to look and what to ask for to reap the most savings.

Deals are plentiful and, thanks to the Internet, are easier than ever to find. Websites like Kayak.com gather prices from a variety of online travel agencies and provide a range of options and price levels. Sign up for weekly e-mails from sites like TravelZoo.com to get information on unpublished deals and package upgrades for maximum savings.

Once at your hotel, be sure to ask about any specials or offers. These usually range from complimentary breakfast, discounted museum passes, or turn-down service. Remember, it doesn't hurt to ask!

Staycations still offer value, fun

A great getaway doesn't require going across the country; excitement and adventure can be found within the range of a single tank of gas. For instance, Six Flags Theme Parks have partnered with Discover to give cardmembers budget-savvy benefits like discounted tickets during select months, Discover-branded family meal packages at as much as fifty percent savings and exclusive "After Hours" perks. Using a Discover card in the park for purchases - food, souvenirs, snacks - will save cardmembers 5 percent instantly.

Roller coasters aren't for everyone but that doesn't mean you can't have an adventure outdoors. Take a trip back in time by creating your own drive-in movie theatre. Home projectors are now available in affordable, portable versions that attach to laptops and iPods. Use a clean white sheet hung against a large flat space in your backyard for the screen. Make a big bowl of popcorn, lay out a blanket and cue up your favorite film for memorable movie experiences and affordable fun all summer long.

These are just a few savvy tips to make the most of your budget and summer. Start planning early and research your options for the savings. But most importantly, remember to get out and have fun

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who loves summer vacations. She also loves Winter, Spring and Fall vacations. Read he stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com