If you dream of a cruise, book early to get the best rates and stay in a cabin within your price range. Work with a travel agent who specializes in cruises to make sure you're getting the best deal possible. Alternatively, some discount travel clubs may offer rebates or specials on cruises. While cruises are all-inclusive, you will need to budget for drinks, side trips, tips and souvenirs.

Staying there. . .

Hotels will often quote their highest rate if you call their toll-free reservation numbers. To get a better deal, call the hotel where you plan to stay directly, and ask about specials or discounts. Members of travel clubs like AAA or Traveler's Advantage can often get discounts, so it may be worthwhile to join one of these organizations. (Our list is on the last page of this publication).

Suite hotels often include cooking facilities, which can be a real moneysaver, even if you just make your own breakfasts and lunches. If you're planning on feeding the family, check to find out whether you'll actually have a stove and refrigerator or just a microwave oven and a mini-fridge.

Camping, whether in an RV, camper or a tent, can make for an inexpensive and adventurous vacation. National and state parks may also rent out clean and comfortable cabins for lodging, at nice rates. (Visit www.nps.gov for a list of national parks, or use your favorite Web search engine to find a list of state parks.) Some universities rent out dorm rooms during holidays or the summer, and the prices can be very low. You may have to state an educational purpose for staying there, but the rules are usually lenient.

Enjoying it. . .

If you'll be traveling overseas, use your credit cards when possible for a good exchange rate. Major credit card companies exchange purchases at wholesale rates, which are better than you can get on your own. And before you leave, ask your card issuer if it charges a one to three percent conversion fee for overseas purchases. Some do, some don't. Just make sure you pay your bill in full when it arrives so interest charges won't blow your budget!

If you rent a car at your destination, use a credit card that offers free Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage to avoid paying for rental car insurance. This benefit alone can save you $10 or more a day! (Keep in mind that CDW is not accepted in all countries. Check with your travel agent and/or the company from which you will be renting in advance.) If you don't have a credit card that offers such coverage, call your own car insurer and find out what is covered when you rent a car. Your own insurance will often suffice, at least for rentals in the United States.

Before automatically renting a car at the airport, check the prices at off-airport locations. These can sometimes be cheaper, and the savings may outweigh the cost of a taxi to the rental agency.

Senior Specials. . .

Seniors can enjoy discounts on airfares, lodging, meals, as well as entertainment and activities at their destinations. Almost all major airlines offer both senior coupons (which are purchased in advance) as well as discounts on flights booked by seniors. Many hotels also offer discount programs for senior travelers, and most do not charge an annual fee. Once you turn 50 you can join AARP and you'll get access to many discount services. Visit www.aarp.org for more information.

And Deals for Youth and Students. . .

Students and children are sometimes eligible for discounts on airfares and they may get free lodging or meals if they are young and are accompanied by an adult. Still, traveling with a family can add up, so find out ahead of time if any special discounts are available.