$how me the $avings!!

Restaurant eating with a family often adds months to credit card pay-offs. Consider planning food items ahead of time. The first few days can make up the extra cost.

Make a point to inquire about hotels that have rooms with mini kitchens. Preparing your own foods is always a great way to save.

If car touring is part of your destination plans, consider taking camping style cups, dishes and plastic utensils. Children get thirsty, particularly, in sub- tropical climates. Over time, purchasing large containers of juice saves significantly o­n the cost of individual juice packs.

Don't forget to bring a handy trash bag; it will save o­n clutter and littler outside.

On driving adventures, buy simple groceries for breakfast and sandwich making (dry cereal, peanut butter). Avoid messy car foods - apples and bananas are better than oranges. Picnics are great.

Choose a site with near-by playground and junior can run off his excess energy. That way the little o­nes will sleep well giving you some quiet time in the evening!

Hopefully some of these ideas will help make your next vacation more affordable and less hectic!