Mrs. Money: Frugal and Green Vacation Ideas

Now that summer is right around the corner, many families are planning vacations.  I know this summer we're looking forward to some vacations that won't break the bank.  Here are some of the vacation ideas we're implementing (or have in the past):

- Renting a cottage on a lake with family.  My whole family rents a cottage on a lake for a week each summer.  The cost is split between the families, so there really isn't much cost for accommodations at all.  We rent a cottage that can hold six families, so it's nice to be able to split the cost that many ways.  It's not a huge cottage, but it's big enough for everyone for one week.

- Camping.  Camping is one of the best ways to stay cheap, and is also a great way to get in touch with nature.  We've purchased tents and other camping equipment from yard sales, and have borrowed other things we've needed to help save money.  Camping fees are usually not too expensive.

- Visiting family.  We have family that lives across country, so it's nice to be able to go out and stay a week with them.  Since we crash with them, we save money on hotels and enjoy being with them 24/7. 

- Swap houses.  There are sites online where you can swap houses with families.  We've actually done this with friends, and it's awesome to visit a new city and have somewhere nice to stay for free.  It works out best when you can swap the same week.

How are you going to save money on vacation this summer?

Mrs. Money writes at the Ultimate Money Blog, where she shares tips on frugal living, how to live green, and living a simpler life.