About 30 percent of your total vacation budget will be spent on food, estimates an internet travel survey. You can reduce that number considerably by avoiding restaurants as much as possible.
Renting a place with a kitchenette will allow you to shop at the local supermarket and cook your own meals. Camping also saves you money, since you have to bring everything with you and have little change to be tempted by convenience food.
If you're staying at a hotel, you can still skip restaurants and find a rather inexpensive local diner. Even on popular tourist destinations, diners usually do not hack up the prices as much as restaurants do.
When looking for a restaurant, get out of the main avenues. Explore little side streets and ethnic places such as Chinese, Korean, or Mexican eateries.
If you have children, look for restaurants that offer free or reduced-price children's meals. Some of these meals are large enough for adults also.
Pack your own snacks. Bring granola bars, buy fresh fruit from a local shop, and carry your own bottled water.
Make sure your hotel offers free breakfasts, which can otherwise add up to a lot if you have a large family. If you're traveling alone or with a partner (but no children), consider a bed and breakfast. They usually offer free breakfasts plus tea and coffee on request throughout the day.
Entertainment
Look for places that offer free or discounted entrance for children. AAA will also get you lots of discounts around the country, so it may be worth the hassle to get a membership.
Walk a lot. Explore the neighborhood, go hiking, have a picnic. Avoid cramming your day --Visit one paid attraction and then take a few hours off to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
If you're traveling to a popular destination, book park and museum tickets in advance. A lot of places offer discounts when you buy online. Also look for online coupons that can be printed and used to get a discount at the door.