Rising costs are forcing many people to rethink their travel options, however there are a few simple ways that you can actually save money

Many families travel to visit relatives, see new destinations or just get away for a break. However the rising costs of fuels (gas) and foods are making travel increasingly expensive. Accommodation aside, it is the travel, the fuel and the food/drinks that can add up to a lot of money.

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To alleviate much of the cost I have undertaken a road trip to see exactly where I can save money and make the journey more affordable. Vacation time is fast approaching and many families are thinking twice about whether or not they should take to the road.

The few simple ideas that I have noted can save a bundle of cash, especially if you have clamoring kids constantly asking for food, drinks and endless 'are we there yet' questions.

Plan Ahead

A good thing to consider is:

• How long the journey will take
• How many people will be travelling
• Will you be passing through towns and villages
• Or, will you be making the journey through isolated areas

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The Journey

It is a strange phenomenon, but when I travel I get peckish for continual nibbles. I have found the best way is to divide the travel up into normal eating times and then make available suitable eats for those times. Choosing sandwiches that are made prior to travelling is a very cost effective way to keep the hunger pangs at bay. I also carry liters of water, filled from my home tap, no cost there.

Fruit bought from the local grocer is far cheaper than fruit bought from a fuel stop shop. A packet of biscuits again bought from the supermarket is handy for munching between meals, as are muesli bars. Add foods that the kids enjoy, but REMEMBER: keep a tight lid on the purse strings.

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My Picnic Basket

The contents of my picnic basket includes, a thermos of hot water, teabags or coffee. Sugar, milk, a packet of biscuits. Fruit – dried as well as fresh. Sandwiches and/or a up of soup mix.

This allows me to pull up anywhere and have something to eat without the worry that it is costing me a fortune. I can pull into a wayside stop or a scenic area and enjoy myself, saving my money for other needs.

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The Experience

Traveling is not about just getting from A to B, it's also about enjoying the experience. Set up a sing-a-long, get the kids to play 'eye spy', make up stories using everyone's name -ts fun when you try. In most cases it make the trip go faster.

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Fuel (Gas) Cost Savers

Fuel (gas) is ever increasing in price. So to ensure that I get the best from my fuel I practice wise fuel economical driving. This includes:

• Slow down, Driving at just under 100 kilometers per hour. It also ensures that I am driving within the legal limit.
• Don't jam on your brakes – this only uses more fuel when you accelerate
• Where possible, slow down well before a traffic light and accelerate slowly once the light has turned green - again this ensures that you are using the least amount of fuel.
• Open up windows instead of using the air conditioner, it's nice to feel the wind in your hair

Also it pays to make sure that tires are in good order and that the motor is serviced and also in good order, especially before embarking on a long journey In these days where costs are escalating at an alarming rate it is important to consider the simple ways that can be used to reduce costs.

Planning your trip is an effective way to help you to identify your needs and can also aid in identifying where you may be spending your money. Develop a list of items for a grab bag of goodies that way you can take to minimize your costs. It's important to gain the most from your dollar and from your travels.