High Costs Fuel Family Vacations Near Home

Perhaps one positive result to record high fuel prices this spring can be defined in upcoming summer family vacation plans. Young couples and families, for example, commonly had small vacation budgets during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, which made outdoor camping trips highly popular. These often were low-cost vacations that featured a vartiety of outdoor living experiences.

In Ohio this year, for example, reservations at state park campgrounds and lodges are running 15%-20% ahead of last year's pace. The parks offer a diversity of recreation opportunities well suited for families. Choosing a vacation destination closer to home, such as a state or national park, may be the perfect answer for higher fuel and travel costs.

Higher fuel costs bring into question travel options that may be centered closer to home. Considering an in-state vacation to another city can offer a great opportunity for discovery that may have been previously overlooked. Also consider a family getaway that takes advantage of the unique lodging experienced at a bed and breakfast. These private home lodging businesses can be a great change of pace from staying at a hotel and more confortable than a campground.

We often look to great distances to enjoy our travel and now may be time to look at the opportunities that can be enjoyed at or near our homes. Consider day-trips from home and invite family members to join in as a way to enjoy a vacation without worry about higher fuel costs.

Also consider simplicity. Build a travel iternary that maximizes affordability and enjoyment of diverse activities that do not require long hours and miles of travel away from home. Perhaps the higher fuel costs this year will lead us into another direction that will help bring families closer together.