Today's economy has left everyone feeling uptight and stressed, and you might be thinking that nobody needs a vacation more than you and your family. But you might be worried, and thinking, “How can I afford a vacation right now?” Well, you can no matter what your budget range or what type of vacation you are longing for. Here is a list of great, budget-friendly vacation ideas.



1) House-swapping. I'm sure everyone has seen Cameron Diaz in the movie, “Holiday”. But, if you haven't, in that movie she, a successful woman from L.A., decides to take a vacation and swap houses with a quaint and quiet woman who lives in the English countryside. It's a fabulous movie, and a great example of what house swapping is. This is where you and another family swap houses for a week and for a wide-range of fees you can join in the online house-swapping search on house swapping websites.

2) Camping. This is one of cheapest, and most fun vacations you will have with your family. While you might have to spend some money to purchase the tent, sleeping bags, coolers, and flashlights or lanterns, if you don't already have them, those things along with the groceries, should be your biggest expense. Campground rentals are relatively inexpensive, and you should always call and make a reservation first. Campgrounds are also relatively clean and offer nice, flat spots for your tent or pop-up camper with a grill. Most campgrounds offer bathroom facilities, but not all of them offer shower facilities. You can find a lot of great campsites in your area online, or even in your local phonebook. If you are looking to go really cheap, try going camping in your backyard!

3) All-inclusive resorts. This is the way to go if you want to go to Mexico or another tropical location. To get the best rates on all-inclusive resorts you should definitely go through a travel agent. For a flat rate you usually get your room, all your food, access to all the resorts features, and sometimes even your alcohol.

4) A cruise. Have you looked into going on a cruise lately? They are surprisingly affordable! A cruise is a lot like an all-inclusive resort. For a flat rate you get a lot of amenities and usually you get to make two or three stops at different ports.

5) Play tourist. Another great vacation idea is to use your vacation time to play tourist in your own town or area. You don't even have to leave home! Purchase your groceries and things you will need for the week, and don't allow yourself to go to the grocery store or frequent places you would normally go. Just take the week to visit local tourist attractions like a nearby state park, or maybe your city pool.

These are all fabulous ideas for a family on a budget because they are all in different budget ranges and each will definitely save you some money. An important thing to keep in mind when you are taking any type of vacation with your family is not about the quantity, or amount of money you spend, it's about the quality of the time you are spending together. Family vacations are always a great way to refresh and bring you and your family closer.