Tax-rebate travel: Families have plenty of options on $1,800 budget

With tax rebates arriving in bank accounts and summer fast approaching, many families are thinking of taking a get-away with their economic stimulus check.

According to local travel agencies, a family of four can take a three-day trip to the Grand Canyon, Disney World, Universal Studios parks or even Las Vegas for about $1,800 -- the amount the average family of four can expect from their tax rebate.

Deb Lemburg, office manager at Gannon Travel Associates, said the price a family pays for their vacation will vary with availability. From Grand Island, a trip to Disney World or Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla., is more of a flying destination. Kansas City, Mo., or Estes Park, Colo., is more a driving destination.

She said vacationing at Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California is always a popular choice for families, as well as going on a cruise.

"Families are doing cruises," Lemburg said. "It's an easy way to go out of the country, and they feel more comfortable doing it with a cruise."

When choosing Disney World, she said, a family should expect to stay in more of a budget hotel that's not on site for the $1,800 price tag. Also, many hotels offer continental breakfasts. Families can also use creative ideas to keep on budget such as choosing a hotel with a refrigerator and microwave so they can eat meals in their room.

Following some other tips from travel experts can also help stretch a family's budget.

When flying, Mick Brown, owner of First Holiday Tour and Travel, suggests to "book it early."

"Shopping 60 to 120 days ahead of time can help you find the best rates on air travel," Brown said.

With the higher gas prices, many families may be considering flying. However, there are still pros and cons to flying and driving.

"Driving gives freedom (of the road), to go to off-the-wall roadside stops and gift shops," said Mitch Beaumont, spokesman with AAA. "Price wise, it depends where you are going, where you live and where you start from."

Beaumont also said that air travel saves time unless a flight is delayed. Check the airline's Web site to make sure flights are running on time.

Other tips for planning a vacation include planning earlier to make it easier to stick to a budget.

When driving, bring a portable cooler with a variety of snacks and drinks available for the kids. Pick a park or rest area to save some money and allow kids to burn up extra energy.

When flying, fly direct when possible to avoid possible delays, Beaumont said. Also, fly earlier in the day when it's easier to get a connecting flight and make sure to bring toys and/or entertainment for kids in case there's a delay.

Be sure to make every penny count. Visitors centers often carry discount books for local businesses, and many restaurants offer "kids eat free" nights. Visit unique and hidden local attractions to help stretch the budget and make for an unforgettable vacation.