02:48 PM Mountain Standard Time on Tuesday, June 20, 2006

Kim McGrigg / Special to azfamily.com

A recent National Retail Federation survey found that 37 percent of consumers plan to cut back on their travel plans because of the high cost of fuel. With experts expecting gas prices to remain high this summer, even resilient vacationers may need to cut down in other areas to make up for the increased fuel expense.

Before you give up on your dreams of a family vacation, take the time to sit down and develop a plan. The experts at Consumer Credit Counseling Services, a division of Money Management International (MMI), offer the following suggestions to make this summer's vacations more enjoyable and less draining on the family pocketbook.

Create a budget.
A recent survey by MMI found that 21 percent of vacationers do not know how they will pay for their summer vacation. To create a vacation budget, start by reviewing last year's vacation expenses and determine how much you can realistically afford to spend. If you know you'll spend more than you have available, try to plan a trip you can pay off completely in three months.

Plan out your trip.
Since you know you will be paying more for gas, seek other ways to cut expenses. For example, consider packing food for the drive rather than purchasing it along the way. For lodging, look for alternatives to expensive hotel stays, such as timeshare properties, cabins, hostels or stay with family and friends.

Drive sensibly.
Excessive speed and a lot of accelerating and breaking can waste gas. According to CNN Money, it can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent when driving at highway speeds and by 5 percent when cruising around town. Using your cruise control is one good way to regulate your speed. Also be sure your vehicle is serviced to perform at its peak performance level before setting out.

Stay closer to home.
Distance may be the most important component in your travel plans this year. Staying closer to home and exploring your home state, or even your own hometown, could prove to be the most cost-effective idea. Visit your local Chamber of Commerce or Visitors Bureau to find out about free or low-cost entertainment and activities. You might be surprised to discover how local parks, playgrounds, museums, community concerts, annual festivals, art exhibits, fairs and craft shows can enhance your summer without breaking your budget.

With a little planning and compromise, you can have a relaxing vacation and come back without the stress and burden of debt.