Many experts anticipate that Americans are going to rein in vacation travel this year because of financial worries. If your vacation wallet is looking a bit thin, take a look at these ways to have your vacation and save a few dollars, too.

First, here are some ideas on how to plan your vacation budget and find great deals:

1. Research travel discounts. Servicemembers have access to some of the best deals going. Contact hotels directly to ask if they have a military rate -- nearly all offer a discount to servicemembers. Find other deals right here at http://benefits.military.com/discount-center/travel/home.do. And remember to bring your military ID to nab those discounts.
2. Make your MWR/ITR office your best friend. Check with the MWR or ITR office first for discounts on hotel, travel, resorts and attractions from Six Flags to shows.
3. Go coupon crazy. Before leaving home, go online to select activities you might want to do at your destination. Then search the Web for your activity and the word "coupon." Many places offer two-for-one, free lunch, kids-free or percentage-off coupons online. Print these and bring them along to save.
4. Consider all-inclusive. Sometimes, all-inclusive vacations offer great values, from a cruise to a resort to a dude ranch. Look at the costs of meals, beverages and excursions to decide if an offer is a good deal.
5. Save with a home away from home. Rent or trade for an apartment or condo. You will be able to prepare your own meals and spread out in more space than a hotel. Trade homes with a friend or relative, rent or trade through a reputable home exchange, or housesit to save big on a longer stay -- even in a foreign country. 
6. Take a "staycation." Staying home eliminates lodging costs and the hassle of planning a house or pet sitter. Don't just park on the couch – Make a plan to visit tourist sites in your hometown that you have never seen, eat at a restaurant you always wanted to try, or relax and order in. For ideas in various locales, order state tourist information or search online for frugal activities in your town. 
7. Ask for discounts. In the current economy, many activities and establishments offer discounts and promotions, particularly to servicemembers. Even when not advertised, be sure to ask for any that may apply.
8. Camp out. The cheapest lodgings often come when you bring your own roof. Campgrounds are available near amusement parks, beaches and scenic areas. For example, you can pay for a camping trip and invest in quality gear that will last for years for the price of an expensive vacation. And don't forget to ask about a military discount -- sporting goods retailers sometimes offer 10 percent off to active military and veterans. Also, take advantage of your special access to on-base camping across the U.S. Find campgrounds at http://pathsacrossamerica.com/.
9. Eat in. At a hotel, request a room with a microwave and refrigerator. Make your own breakfast (such as cereal or yogurt), dinner (salad or frozen meals) or snacks, or make sandwiches in the morning and then eat just one meal a day out to save on restaurant meals.
10. Strategize souvenirs. Instead of buying souvenirs at a tourist gift shop, visit a large discount retailer. In many areas, these stores have a good selection of T-shirts, mugs, magnets and postcards -- at much lower prices. Or purchase something you'll enjoy later such as local foods, craft supplies or a needed household item (such as new kitchen towels, a vase or a basket) that will remind you of your trip.

Wherever your vacation plans may take you this year, it's possible to find a good value on a relaxing diversion from routine. With a little research and your military ID, you can more easily -- and affordably -- be on your way to a great break.

For more tips about planning an inexpensive summer vacation, visit Military.com's Travel channel.

Copyright 2006 Ethan Ewing. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.