Whatever your summer vacation fantasy, you can make it happen this year. You worked hard for that vacation. Shave a day or two off the trip to afford a stay in the resort with the water slides.
Shorter trips are easier to schedule anyway.
While on the road, eat picnic lunches instead of fast food. Alternate between pricey attractions and lazy days at the beach or hotel pool. This also helps prevent vacation burnout. Set the children's souvenir budget before you leave home, and stick to it. Check resort and vacation-area Web sites for special deals.