"I think people are happily surprised a lot of times of what's in their backyard once they start looking around."
Vacationing this summer is possible on a budget, if you take advantage of special offers, look for discounts and think outside the box:
If you are flying, and flexible about your destination, sign up at Web sites that alert you to last-minute low fares.
If you are driving, sites like AAA can calculate how much your trip will cost and where to get the cheapest gas.
When booking hotels, be aggressive about discounts from organizations like AAA and AARP. Or consider enrolling online to swap houses with people in another city.
Despite the tough economy, major sales are as common as fireworks today, and as the weather gets colder, the deals will only get better as retailers aggressively pursue deals and promotions through this weekend and into the fall.
This summer expect to see rebates, discounts and even 18-month no interest payments. After people spend their stimulus checks and tax rebates, retailers will be aggressively courting consumers. Soon gas grills, lawn furniture and appliances will be going on sale as retailers prepare for fall by dumping their summer inventory.
On ABC News this morning, Wendy Bounds, "Good Morning America" contributor and editor at the Wall Street Journal, said Circuit City will be offering $300 off a 41-inch plasma TV, $100 off a laptop and $50 off a GPS device. At Sears, you will find 20 percent to 30 percent off appliances. Lowe's promotions include a gas grill that comes with a free tank of propane.
And for the fashion forward, Bloomingdale's and Macy's are discounting already on-sale merchandise.
Carmakers will also offer sweet deals. But prices will remain high on home goods and alcohol.
"People are looking for ways to scale back without completely giving up their vacations," Leffel said. "I think most people realize it's inherently important to have that down time and to get away from work and to get out of your house and go do something else without spending a fortune."
As Gardner's family prepares camp, she remains upbeat, despite vacationing in the next town over.
"Well, I have to admit, I'm going home to my own bed tonight, so I can afford to be chipper," she said. "The rest of them are roughing it, I'm going home."
Even budgeting has a bright side.
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