Knowing what to budget for is almost as important as how much money you can spend ...

OK, so you're planning your annual vacation, but you need to know how much to budget. Where do you start?

Start with AAA.

In 2006, AAA's suggested budget for a family of four -- 2 adults, 2 children:

• Lodging: Based on the latest AAA TourBook^® guide information, the average cost for lodging is $141 per night. The rate includes an extra per-person charge for children.
• Meals: Plan to spend at least $120 a day on meals, not including tips or beverages.
• Driving costs: $15.10 per 100 miles -- this includes fuel, oil, tires and maintenance for a car averaging 25.8 mpg. See AAA's guide, Your Driving Costs, for more information.

Additional Expenses

Of course, you'll probably want to have some fun while you're on vacation, too! Be sure to factor in admission fees, tolls, recreation and shopping. AAA suggests carrying travelers cheques or pre-paid money cards. AAA members can obtain fee-free travelers cheques and other types of travel money such as prepaid Visa cards through any AAA office.

For more information on this topic, please contact your local AAA club.