Planning for your summer vacation

Like most families, you’re probably hoping to get away with the kids this summer. Maybe you’re dreaming of a few days of sun and surf at the beach, piney trails and cool shade in the mountains, or sightseeing in a new metropolis. Here are some strategies for planning a great summer vacation:

• Consider a [% 2525501 | | vacation rental %]. A great choice for families (and especially extended families), vacation rentals give you more space than a hotel room, fully equipped kitchens for preparing meals according to your own budget and tastes, and extra amenities such as grills, decks, whirlpool tubs, and more. Check the listings on sites such as VRBO, CyberRentals, and Zonder.
• Go off-peak. You’ll find great leisure possibilities by choosing an off-peak destination, rather than popular summer beaches, resorts, and the like. Expect less crowds, an abundance of accommodations choices, and affordable prices. SmarterTravel.com’s editors cover off-peak and bargain destinations for all four seasons; check back in May for our summer recommendations.
• Book at the last minute. Whether it’s due to cancellations or unsold inventory, last-minute travel specials can offer great bargains. And what better way to cure summer boredom than to take the kids away for an impromptu vacation? BnBFinder.com lists inns with last-minute discounts; LastMinuteTravel.com and lastminute.com offer the latest airfare, hotel, and package deals. And every Wednesday, SmarterTravel will email you last-minute airfares available from your home city.

Have a great travel tip you’d like to share? Send your insider travel strategies to editor@smartertravel.com.