Summer travel saving strategies

Afraid that recent price increases in critical budget areas will cramp your warm-weather travel style? Relax. With these simple saving strategies, your summer fun is in the bag.

WEEKENDS If taking a few weeks off isn't in your work schedule, cheer up. Chances are you can have a wider range of travel opportunities by taking advantage of long holiday weekends throughout the summer travel season. By booking easily drivable destination itineraries, you'll spend fewer hours on the road and more time having fun. Long Islanders, for example, have upstate lakes and mountains.

WEATHER At some of the world's more exotic locations, the off-season offers the biggest bang for the buck. We once booked a trip to Costa Rica, and purposely went during the wet season. The rains fell mostly in the afternoon, when we were already done sightseeing for the day anyway. The prices were fantastic, and the daily downpours provided a soundtrack for relaxation.

FESTIVALS From late spring to early autumn, food and cultural festivals provide powerful savings along with abundant opportunities for travel photography. From Montreal's Jazz Festival to the Maine Lobster Festival, you'll find lots to entertain you on your summer excursions. Other events of note include Vancouver's Symphony of Fire celebration and New Mexico's Hatch Valley Chile Festival.

FUEL Make the most of your minivan by carpooling with friends to take a romantic road trip for couples while the kids are away at summer camp. Choose a destination that's easily walkable once you arrive so that differing tourist agendas can be accommodated.