Fieldtrip Friday: Plan a trip!

Now that you are motivated; versed on ways to speed your metabolism; up on the current workout trends; and have your swimsuit (and flippy-floppies); take your hot bod on a summer trip!

Personally, I need (scratch that) deserve a vacation. Once I know my hubby's next work venture, I plan to go on my own adventure.

Here are some ways to plan a vacation without breaking the bank! Shamelessly copied from Family Travel because I'm feeling lazy (and as I said, need a vacation!). Enjoy!

Be a backyard explorer. Don’t assume that the grass is always greener, or the water bluer, a thousand miles away from home. No matter where you live, there are national and state parks, gorgeous lakes, vibrant cities, and idyllic summer resort towns within a day’s drive. Make a point of discovering a few nearby treasures this summer and you’ll find yourself in excellent company.

Time it right. Hotel rates fluctuate with supply and demand, so it really pays to go against the flow. In many popular summer resort destinations, prices peak between July 4 and mid-August. Consequently, vacationing in June or late-August can translate into significant savings. You’ll typically get more bang from your buck at summer resorts if you visit midweek, but the opposite can hold true for city breaks. During the summertime in the Big Apple, for example, when business travel slows and locals flee to the hinterlands, hotels have been known to drop their rates by 15 to 20 percent midweek and up to 30 percent for Sunday night stays.

Focus on extras. When it comes to finding a bargain hotel, don’t automatically assume you get what you pay for. When you look beyond nightly rates, you’ll discover that dozens of economy chains offer free breakfast, wi-fi, and parking, while their mid- and high-end counterparts are more likely to charge for those amenities.

Arrive armed with deals. Before you leave home, order the Entertainment Book or another coupon book for your destination. These popular editions are so stuffed with discounts on dining and attractions that you’ll likely recoup your investment within the first two days of your visit. (See also: 6 Ways to Save on Kid-Friendly Attractions.)

Keep meals cheap and cheerful. Keep a cooler in your car and restock it with snacks and drinks bought at local grocery stores. Stay at a hotel that offers a free breakfast (see above), and plan to picnic at least once a day. When you treat yourselves to a restaurant, do it at lunch time, when menus are less expensive.

Mix in free fun. Nothing takes the sting out of vacation sticker shock like a few good freebies. So after you visit San Diego Zoo, give your wallet a break with these free things to do in San Diego. Consult your destination’s tourism organization to find local parks, nature trails, playgrounds, and farmer’s markets—all go-to stops for free fun. And don’t forget the joy of simply hanging out at your hotel pool.