Advertising on TV and in magazines may lead you to believe that the only way you can be a good spouse or parent is to take your family on a cruise, to Disney World, or to sunny vacation spots in the winter. Remember the source, though: These advertisements come from places that need you to visit in order for them to make money!

The truth is, though, that for a vacation to be great, all you need to do is get out of your current environment for a while, doing something fun and, perhaps, different. To save money on your vacation, for example, you can stay right in your own state, perhaps in an area you've never visited before.

Plan to stay in an extended-stay hotel, which will usually have a kitchenette so you can cook your own meals and which offers discounts for stays of seven nights or more.

If you already own camping equipment, consider going that route. Pack picnic lunches and look for free or low-cost attractions, such as museums, parks, zoos, and so on. Hiking is nearly always free and is a great way to find new adventures.

Remember that just because you're on vacation, you don't have a license to spend money that you would never dream of spending at home.

To keep shopping extravaganzas to a limit, consider bringing traveler's checks or a check card (a debit card, but with a cap) for all your vacation expenses, including hotel, rental cars, and so on. Instead of putting your vacation on a credit card, use your traveler's checks or check card, which some banks offer free or at a reduced rate. You'll get nervous as you see them dwindle and won't be tempted to buy souvenirs or other unplanned items.