Summer Vacation Costs Up $3 Per Day, AAA Says
11 May 1999
Summer Vacation Costs Up $3 Per Day, AAA Says
ORLANDO, Fla.--May 11, 1999--Summer travelers will find an increase of just over 1 percent in meal and lodging costs in 1999, bringing the average daily costs for a family of four to $213, according to AAA.The average cost of lodging for a family of two adults and two children remained at $110 per night, the same as AAA's 1998 survey. Meal costs rose 3 percent to $103 per day for the same size family.
North Dakota remains the least expensive state in which to travel, with family meal and lodging costs averaging $158 per day. Other low-cost vacation states include South Dakota, $161 per day; Nebraska, $163; Kansas, $169; and Oklahoma, $173.
The most expensive state for vacation costs is Hawaii, where lodging and meals average $419 per day. Next comes New York at $278 per day; New Jersey, $263; California, $257; and Delaware, $255.
AAA recommends that vacationers traveling by car should budget $5.50 for gasoline every 100 miles, based on an average gas price of $1.15 per gallon and a vehicle traveling 21 miles per gallon. It is also important for families to budget money for entertainment, souvenirs and unexpected expenses.
AAA offers these tips for saving money on a vacation:
| -- | Book accommodations in advance to ensure availability, selection and to guarantee the best rate. A travel agent can help find lodging that meets individual needs and budget. |
| -- | Overnight in outlying areas, away from popular tourist and business destinations. |
| -- | Pack a picnic, or eat your large meal at lunch to take advantage of lower menu prices. |
| -- | Make sure your car is in top condition to avoid inefficient fuel use and unexpected breakdowns. |
| -- | Use discounts, such as those offered to AAA members, to save on lodging, restaurant and attraction costs. |
AAA's meal and lodging costs are based on prices listed in AAA's popular TourBook(R) guides.
AAA is a not for profit federation of 90 clubs with 1,100 offices providing nearly 42 million members with travel, financial, insurance and auto-related services.
