This time of year brings out the traveler in us all. After being cooped up for the winter, it’s nice to get out with the family and explore. This year, many families are facing the struggle of trying to plan family vacations for summer on a budget. Even with the recent economic stimulus checks, most people have tight budgets due to rising food and gas prices. If you’re feeling the pinch, there are many things that you can do with your family this summer without having to take out a second mortgage.

1. Visit a National Park - If you’re lucky enough to live within driving distance of one of the nation’s 58 National Parks, it can be a great way to explore the great outdoors with your family. Pack a picnic lunch and head out early before it gets too hot. Most parks have a small entrance fee but it is normally charged per car and not per person.

2. Local Museums - How long has it been since you visited the local art or history museum? Although the kids might complain at first, this can be a wonderful and relatively inexpensive family outing. Check with your local museum for their list of special exhibits. You may be able to see something new each month.

3. Train Trips - If gas prices have got you down, consider taking the train to a nearby destination. Train travel is not only economical but is a great experience for the kids. Call Amtrak or look up their schedule of trains online. If you travel to an area where there is a lot of public transit, like San Francisco for example, you won’t even have to worry about renting a car. Taking a few day trips by train over the summer will allow you to vacation without spending too much.

4. Vacation at Home - For some families, traveling anywhere at all just isn’t in the budget. In this case, making vacation special at home can be the solution. Pick a new theme each weekend, like Water Play or Movie Weekend and plan at home activities around the house. Ban housework for an entire day and just enjoy spending time together. Do something out of the ordinary, like picnicing on the living room floor or sleeping outside under the stars to make staying at home fun.

5. Camping - Camping is a classic American vacation activity, and for good reason. Not only do you get to spend time in nature but you avoid costly hotel fees as well. If you don’t have camping equipment already, ask your friends and family if you can borrow some or look for some used equipment in the newspaper or on Craigslist.

6. Play Like a Tourist - If it’s been a while since you’ve explore the home town sights, it’s time to act like a tourist. Call your local tourist office or city council and ask them what’s new in town. Get brochures and flyers for some of the local attraction. There are probably some things in your area that you knew nothing about!

7. House Swapping - This method takes a little bit more planning, but it’s a great way to get out of town on the cheap. There are services, like the one available at http://www.homeexchange.com/, where you can meet others who are looking to “swap” houses for a few weeks to several months. You can list your house and search for others who are willing to travel to the area that you live in. House swapping means that you won’t have any hotel or accommodations costs, and you may be able to have a longer vacation without paying through the nose.