Become a Web master

The Web is the best thing to happen to budget travelers since the advent of economy class. Airlines often use the Web to unload their unsold seats quickly and at very cheap prices. Travel sites abound, and if you register, you can usually get e-mail newsletters that alert you to discount deals on airfare, hotel, and rental cars for your destination of choice. You have two main options when Web surfing — umbrella travel sites and airline specific sites. Unfortunately, there's no clear winner in the price wars, so check out both types of sites. Most sites are free, so sign up for several and comparison-shop to your heart's content. One thing to note: Umbrella travel sites often have behind-the-scenes deals with certain airlines that require them to show that airline's results first, even if the fares aren't the cheapest. Read the fine print carefully, and keep searching if you feel like a so-called deal is no deal at all.

Become one of the locals

It's often tempting to call a major hotel chain and book a room in your city of choice. And once you're there, if you don't know where to eat, you're likely to end up at an overpriced chain restaurant. Don't do it! Locally owned and operated hotels are often much nicer and less expensive. And you'll learn more about the town you're visiting if you eat at the local hangout. For each spot you plan to visit, start with the Chamber of Commerce Web site, then follow the links to local hotels and B&Bs as well as to popular restaurants and attractions. These sites often list local parks and recreation areas, as well.

Hit the road

Cut the cost of plane tickets out of your travel budget and your money will go a lot farther. No matter where you live, there's probably a wonderful family destination within a days' drive. Why not start with a National Park? Nearly every state boasts a gorgeous national park, from Acadia in Maine to Zion in Utah. Go to the National Park Service's site and click on your state to find the nearest park. National monuments, state parks, and historic and cultural attractions make great travel destinations too. Each state has a Web site listing its state parks, and you can often book campground and cabin reservations online.

To save even more money, find motels along the way with refrigerators or kitchenettes, so you can eat breakfast in your room before hitting the road. Bring along a cooler, too, so you can picnic along the way.