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AAA survey looks at vacation costs

A statue of Eisenhower from the former president’s library and museum in Abilene, Kan. Kansas is one of the most affordable states in the country to visit.

According to the 2008 edition of AAA’s Annual Vacation Costs Survey, the recommended travel budget for two adults traveling together in North America is $244 per day for lodging and meals. The average cost for lodging is $164 per night. Plan on spending about $80 a day on meals, exclusive of beverages and gratuities.

There are ways to whittle down your vacation budget.
“Vacation spending depends on personal preferences and means,” said Michael Petrone, director of AAA Tourism Information Development. “While you can expect higher lodging rates in metropolitan areas and during peak travel seasons,

travelers can save by making advance reservations and taking advantage of discounts.” The survey also ranked the least to most expensive states. The most affordable state is North Dakota ($158.75), followed by Nebraska ($159.65) and Kansas ($164.62). Other states on AAA’s most affordable list include:

• Iowa ($169.81)
• South Dakota ($174.83)
• Oklahoma ($179.80)
• Alabama ($180.75)
• Arkansas ($186.09)
• Mississippi ($187.33)
• Kentucky ($187.76)

The most expensive state in the country is Hawaii ($792.76).

Tulsa, Okla., is the most economical choice for a city getaway ($178.78), while Honolulu in Hawaii will cost travelers the most per day–about $673. And bring extra cash for New York City; about $606 per day, to be exact.

AAA has been tracking vacation costs since 1950 when the average daily cost for lodging and meals was $13. Meal and lodging costs are based on published prices from more than 60,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated® lodgings and restaurants listed in the popular TourBook guides.

Save money at these destinations

Don’t let the sun set on a chance to nab 11 money-saving offers in Kansas City, including a discount off Worlds of Fun admission. Worlds of Fun photo

With gas hovering close to $4 per gallon, who wouldn’t want to find ways to shave the cost of a vacation–even on a getaway that’s close to home.

Here are five tips to help jump start your family’s summer trip.
• Remember to pack your AAA membership card. Dozens of special offers, including discounted lodging and theme park admission, are available to you. Before leaving on your trip, check out all the savings at www.AAA.com/savings.

• Branson this summer brings back the Gas Buster discount card. Travelers just visit one of two Branson welcome centers and present gas receipts plus a valid driver’s license to get the card worth $50 in discounts. For details, call the Branson chamber at (800) 214-3661 or visit www.explorebranson.com.

• Kansas City saves travelers money with the Discover KC Pass, with discounts at some of the area’s best attractions, including Worlds of Fun ($7 off a regular admission). The pass is available to those living outside the five-county metropolitan area by calling (888) 474-8527 or visiting www.VisitKC.com/pass.

• St. Louis’ Family Attractions Card has coupons for lodging, entertainment, dining and popular attractions, including The Magic House (free child’s admission). Visit www.explorestlouis.com to download the coupons or pick up a card at area Dierberg’s, Schnucks or Shop n Save supermarkets.

• Springfield offers a Passport to Family Fun, with $100 in discounts and special offers, that doubles as a souvenir when the kids collect all the stamps at participating businesses, including the Springfield Cardinals. To get a passport, click on www.VacationSpringfield.com or call (417) 881-5300.

AAA unveils credit card

A new credit card from AAA combines user friendliness with unlimited points earned on everyday purchases, including gas.

The AAA credit card with WorldPoints® Rewards has no annual fee, a low annual percentage rate and 24-hour account access. Cardholders can earn one point for every $1 in net retail purchases for items like groceries or ongoing monthly bills. Double the points for every $2 spent on gas. Redeem points for travel (with no blackout dates), cash, merchandise or gift cards.

Access MyConcierge, a personal assistant service, and find the best seats at concerts or sporting events–even if it’s sold out. Get restaurant recommendations and reservations, too. Redeem Ultimate Access rewards and get high-demand event tickets, VIP access to special events and other luxury services.

For details, call (866) 665-3581 or visit www.AAA.com/creditcard.