How to Plan a Beach Vacation on a Budget

It's best to plan your beach vacation early. That way you won't get stuck with additional fees if you're scrambling to book something just before you want to depart. Check to see if hotels have promotions if you book directly with them, to avoid surcharges. You may also look into hiring a vacation home for a week instead of booking a hotel stay.

Family Beach Vacations
If you're with the whole family, you will need distractions. Check out tourist websites or information centers that offer discounted event tickets, suggestions on where to go, and other promotions. If you go to a nearby beach, drive instead of flying. You can spend quality time with the kids and map out fun stops along the way.

When you finally make it to the beach, make a day out of it. Bring books, games, packaged lunches and spend the day in the sun. If you even carry a sweatshirt you can stay to watch the sun go down at night before heading back to the hotel.

Beach Budget Resorts
There are a number of beach vacation resorts that offer packages to suit all types of budgets. Check out resorts in Mexico, Florida and Barbados. Some rates are as low as $100 a night. Try going on websites that review the hotel and see what other guests have said about their stay.

Virginia Beach is a great destination right here in the United States. If you live on the East Coast, it's an easy drive and you can play mini-golf with the kids. Don't forget the beaches of North Carolina. Lodging is cheap and you'll get to enjoy all the beautiful surf and sun the state has to offer.