Many people will be foregoing their family vacations this year because of the current economic climate.Others, however, are determined to enjoy a vacation, but are looking for ways to save money while still having a great trip.

Flexibility is probably the main key to saving on a vacation. Investigate several possible scenarios for you and your family. You will then be able to choose the one that’s right for you and your budget. Consider alternate sites for your vacation. Be flexible with travel times, especially if you are flying. You can often save hundreds of dollars just by switching a flight from Sunday, a very busy day, to Tuesday, the slowest day for the airlines.

Visit websites for airlines, hotels, and local points of interest and register for e-mail notification of special offers, etc. Also, consider contacting a local travel agent. Although they earn a fee, they often have access to better deals than you can obtain on your own so that, in the long run, they can save you money.

Consider driving to your destination. This eliminates airline costs and, with gas prices much lower this year, the savings could be substantial. Also, pack a lunch, snacks, etc. for the trip and you’ll be able to avoid restaurant costs while traveling.

If you plan to use frequent flyer points to book a flight, it is necessary that you plan very early. Popular flights are often full months in advance for the allowable number of seats that can be occupied by frequent flyers.

By planning your vacation during the “off peak” season, you can save on almost every aspect of it. Often the weather is still very enjoyable, hotel rates should be down, and restaurants will most likely be offering lower prices for meals.

The cost of flying is increasing on almost a daily basis. Fuel surcharges, additional fees for baggage, and ticket increases are causing many companies to wonder if it is worthwhile to fly employees around the world for conferences, etc.

Here are a few ideas that could possibly save on costs:

Before booking a flight, confirm travel plans with those you will be meeting. Changes in itinerary often incur charges of $150 per flight or more.

Consider possibly sending presentation materials overnight rather than checking in baggage as it may be more cost-effective.

Passports should be current and be certain to have any visas required for foreign travel.

When checking local airports, investigate flights to airports in the area rather than just the local airport. Some of the others may offer great bargains.

If several company employees are flying in for the same conference, attempt to coordinate transportation to save on expenses.

All flights should be booked for the lowest fares available. If you later see a price lower than the one you paid, ask for a discount.

Consider the possibility of extending a midweek trip over a weekend to reduce airfare costs.

If you are making the plans, consider off-season locations to save money.