Save on late summer travel

Save on late summer travel

(Family Features) There's still plenty of time to go on a summer getaway - and there are ways to keep costs down and get more out of your travel dollars.

You don't have to travel halfway across the country to have a great time. Look around your own area for destination ideas. Check out places within 100 to 300 miles of your town. You may be surprised at the great ideas - and great deals - in your own region or back yard.

If you plan to travel by car, there are a few things you can do to maximize your mileage and save money:

• Pack light. The more you pack, the heavier the car is. That makes the car have to work harder and use more fuel.
   
• Tire check. Make sure your tire pressure is accurate so that the gas is spent efficiently.
   
• Cruise it. Cruise control helps the engine run efficiently and save gas.
   
• Grade Gas. You probably don't need premium grade fuel. Use only the grade level of gas that your owner's manual calls for, nothing more.

If you're not taking your own car, consider using public transportation to get around your vacation spot. You can often check local bus and light-rail schedules on line. And some cities offer inexpensive day passes.

Keep an eye out for freebies. Some airlines and hotels have specials for children 12 years and under. Check out local restaurants for their kids-eat-free nights, too. And don't forget the free activities in a lot of cities - get on the visitor website of your destination city and find out what's free. They may even have a free coupon book to area attractions and restaurants.

Joining a hotel loyalty program can save you money as well. You earn points for every stay in the hotels, and those can add up to free nights and airline miles.

When you're choosing a hotel, check their website for special promotions or packages. The Bed & Breakfast package offered by Radisson Hotels & Resorts, for example, includes a room rate starting at only $99 per night, bonus points for their goldpoints plusSM loyalty program, and a breakfast voucher worth up to $20 for couples and up to $30 for families. Radisson hotels feature high quality breakfast offerings and custom SLEEP NUMBER® bed rooms, where available. The offer is good until September 15, 2008.

Getting away doesn't have to mean going far or spending a lot of money. You can have a summer trip that won't break the bank.

To learn more about the Bed & Breakfast package, or to make reservations, visit radisson.com/breakfast

Courtesy of Family Features