Get the Most Bang for Your Buck on Vacation

To get the most out of your summer vacation, follow these bits of advice:

Do your homework. Before you go, order a visitors guide from the state tourism board or convention and visitors bureau of the place you will be visiting. Not only will they have lists of activities you may not have realized they offer, but often the guide will have money-saving coupons to local attractions, accommodations and even restaurants. Also check out the agency’s website, where you may find printable coupons. This will also help you make the most out of your time at your destination

Do as the locals do. Become an Internet sleuth and find out what the locals know. Living on the Cheap’s network of local websites, which cover an array of cities, is a great place to start.  There you can learn which attractions have free days. You can also find lesser known attractions you might otherwise miss, many of which are free. Locals know what is a must see and what you can skip. Plus, they know the best times to go to avoid crowds.

Get out early. Some attractions offer early birds free or reduced price admission. For example, admission to the St. Louis Zoo’s Children’s Zoo is $4 per person but free every day during the first hour the zoo is open.  The same goes for Conservation Carousel ($3) and Stingrays at Caribbean Cove exhibit ($3). While planning your entertainment see if you can work those special days into your schedule to take advantage of these early bird specials.