Reno Vacation Packages

How to Squeeze More Out of Short Trips

Michelle Chapman, AP Business Writer

Americans got used to staycations during the recession, but as the economy begins to recover many are now ready to graduate to the short-stay getaway for relaxation and adventure without the financial drain of a longer vacation.

Here are some tips for short trips that are both fun and frugal.

LOCATION, LOCATION: Nearby or easy-access destinations are most likely to offer clear ways to reduce expenses. Consider metropolitan areas like New York, Chicago or Los Angeles, where you can get around at very low cost because you can walk or take public transportation to most activities.

Las Vegas is among many experts' top picks for a short trip because hotels and flights are plentiful and deals abound. Many Sin City establishments still offer discounted food and beverages, says Chris Russo, president of the American Society of Travel Agents. For the best prices Rick Ingersoll, author of

"The Frugal Travel Guy Handbook," recommends hitting Las Vegas at midweek, as gambling destinations usually see more demand — and charge more — on weekends.

Also consider Orlando, Fla., where a lodging surplus gives travelers ample opportunity to score cheap rates, while many local attractions offer discounts and packages.

ROUGHING IT: A great way to keep food and lodging costs roughly the same as if you stayed home is to camp — assuming you don't need to buy much new gear. A pass to all the national parks in the country costs $50 a year. Some national parks also offer free access on certain dates, some are always free to enter, and there are multiple discount programs. Check www.nps.gov for details. Camping fees are usually less than $10 a night in state or national parks. Private campgrounds tend to charge more, though some provide more services.

FLY AWAY: Time is of the essence when you only have a few days to unwind, making air travel a logical choice. So don't shy away; just keep your options open because prices depend on lots of factors, including the carrier and competition, says Hotwire group president Clem Bason.

Many vacationers assume shorter flights will be cheaper, but that's not always so. For example, Bason says, fares between New York and Los Angeles or San Francisco are competitive because there are many available. And short flights cost less in the West than on the East Coast because more low-cost carriers compete to serve Western travelers.

As with lodging, Ingersoll suggests checking midweek and Saturday for the lowest rates. And pack light to avoid checked-baggage fees and the time and hassle involved in retrieving your luggage after you land.

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