With the price of gas, hotels and airfares on the rise, many Iowans are wondering if a summer vacation is an option this year. Travel agent Stephanie Oswald says a change from the grind is good for the mind and even kids who were surveyed notice how their parents lighten up when they can get away from it all.

“Ninety-three-percent of them said that it’s important for mom and dad to take a break so they can be away from their jobs and just have fun,” Oswald says. “I think it’s critical in this day and age that people realize, even if you’re taking a road trip near your house, that you take that time to get away.” Oswald says great travel deals are available if you plan in advance and can vary your departure days.

“If you can change your travel plans by even a day to give yourself more flexibility, you may save a lot of money,” Oswald says. “It’s going to be high peak season and it’s going to be more travel dollars you’re going to have to spend so having flexibility, being able to travel during the week.”

If your vacation budget is tight, she says you can cut costs by bringing your own food or buying it once you reach your destination instead of eating out for every meal. “Whether it’s heating something up in the microwave or keeping cereal and milk in your room because you have a refrigerator there, those little things will add up,” Oswald says. “Even having a bottle of wine you brought from your wine cellar at home, you’re going to save a lot of money.”

Iowans who are traveling with kids will likely want to pick up some trinkets from the trip but those souvenirs can cost a bundle.

“Take a break and run out to the local Wal-Mart or K-Mart and see what they’ve got,” she says, “because a lot of times you’ll find mugs and t-shirts and magnets, the same quality but at half the price or less.” For more hints, visit: “www.alltraveltips.com“.