Simple travel tips to save time, money

July 8, 7:56 AMNY Consumer Affairs ExaminerAsa Aarons

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Worried you'll still be paying off your summer vacation next winter? For many consumers, that's a reasonable - and recurring - fear. But it doesn't have to be that way. Experts agree one week of fun in the sun should not lead to a year's worth of debt. The simple solution: Make a reasonable vacation budget before you travel--and stick to it.

• Remember to budget for equipment rentals, snacks and gifts.
• Do research online to find recommendations from other travelers as well as residents of the places you plan to visit. Learn from others' mistakes before you waste your money.
• Airfares to more remote airports are often considerably less expensive than the more popular, and crowded, alternatives closer to town.
• Investigate discounts from hotels, restaurants and attractions. They may offer discounts to members of AAA, AARP and other organizations.
• Add a cushion of 10% to 15% to your budget for unanticipated events - everything from lost luggage, flat tires or a hospital emergency room visit.

Read more vacation planning tips here.