High Fuel Cost May Change the Way Americans Vacation: MMI Offers Tips for Reducing Prices on the Road

HOUSTON--June 21, 2006--A recent National Retail Federation survey found that 37 percent of consumers plan to cut back on their travel plans because of the high cost of fuel. With experts expecting gas prices to remain high this summer, even resilient vacationers may need to cut back in other areas to make up for the increased fuel expense.

Before you give up on your dreams of a family vacation, take the time to sit down and develop a plan. The experts at Money Management International (MMI) offer the following suggestions to make this summer's vacations more enjoyable and less draining on the family pocketbook.

-- Create a budget. A recent survey by MMI found that 21 percent of vacationers do not know how they will pay for their summer vacation. To create a vacation budget, start by reviewing last year's vacation expenses and determine how much you can realistically afford to spend. If you know you'll spend more than you have available, try to plan a trip you can pay off completely in three months.

-- Plan out your trip. Since you know you will be paying more for gas, seek other ways to cut expenses. For example, consider packing food for the drive rather than purchasing it along the way. For lodging, look for alternatives to expensive hotel stays, such as timeshare properties, cabins, hostels or stay with family and friends.

-- Drive sensibly. Excessive speed and a lot of accelerating and breaking can waste gas. According to CNN Money, that can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent when driving at highway speeds and by 5 percent when cruising around town. Using your cruise control is one good way to regulate your speed. Also be sure your vehicle is serviced to perform at its peak performance level before setting out.

-- Stay closer to home. Distance may be the most important component in your travel plans this year. Staying closer to home, and exploring your home state or even your own hometown, could prove to be the most cost-effective idea. You may be surprised to discover how local parks, museums and community concerts can enhance your summer without breaking your budget.

"With a little planning and compromise, you can have a relaxing vacation, and come back without the stress and burden of debt," said Cate Williams, vice president of MMI. "The time spent together is far more important than the amount of money spent."

About Money Management International

Money Management International (MMI) is a non-profit, full-service credit-counseling agency, providing confidential financial guidance, financial education, counseling and debt management assistance to consumers since 1958. MMI helps consumers trim their expenses, develop a spending plan and repay debts. Counseling is available by appointment in branch offices and 24/7 by telephone and Internet. To learn more, call 800-762-2271 or visit www.moneymanagement.org.