Day trips give people the chance to explore without all of the planning and costs involved in taking overnight trips. You can see new places and meet new people without

worrying about booking motel rooms, finding a place to board your pet, or missing a lot of time at work. If you can't afford to leave town for weeks at a time, why not enjoy a satisfying mini-vacation?

These money-saving tips can help you enjoy a memorable trip without generating big bills:

1. Consider Packing Food and Drinks If you plan to stop for restaurant meals, you'll spend a lot more money. Packing a picnic offers you a fun and affordable alternative to eating out. Even if you prefer to stop for lunch at some interesting eatery, consider eating a substantial breakfast at home. Also, pack a cooler with drinks and snacks to avoid stops at convenience stores.
2. Check for Free or Discounted Days at Attractions Many zoos and museums offer free or discount days during the week. They offer deals because they aren't as busy on weekdays. In addition to saving money on admissions, you can also enjoy attractions on days when you aren't so likely to have to deal with crowds and long lines. As you consider your itinerary, check websites for the best days to visit various attractions.
3. Consider Discounts From Third Parties Do you have a membership in AAA, AARP, or a similar organization that offers discounts? If so, don't forget to check to see if local restaurants and points of interest have affiliations that can save you money. Also, sites like Groupon often offer two-for-one deals at restaurants, amusement parks, and similar venues. Very often, stores sell discounted tickets to area attractions too
4. Comparison Shop for Gas Prices Before you fill up your car, you can check the internet for gas stations with the lowest prices in your city. To find competitive gasoline prices in your area, you can start at FuelEconomy.gov. You will find a link to a list of local sites that help you compare current prices at different outlets. Also, don't forget to make sure your tires are properly inflated because that is one of the easiest things you can do to conserve fuel and make your tires last longer.
5. Don't Forget to Plan Ahead You might have noticed one common theme that ran through all of the other suggestions. In order to save money on your trip, food, and activities, you'll need to make a list of where you plan to go and what you would like to do while you are there. You certainly do not need to chisel your itinerary on stone tablets; however, the more you plan, the more money you are likely to save.

Where Should You Go? There's no right or wrong way to take a day trip. If you live in the city, your family might enjoy a visit at a nearby state or national park. If you live in a rural area, you could drive into the city to visit a museum or see an afternoon matinee. A simple internet search for day trip ideas in your local area should uncover lots of ideas to spark your sense of adventure. Advance planning can help you satisfy your urge to roam and save money at the same time.