MAIN Travel Weekend Getaways

While many people dream of spending weeks on sun-drenched tropical beaches, a growing number of families or couples are recognizing the advantages of vacation or holiday fun in shorter doses.

Two-income households with a gaggle of kids in tow especially have little time to plan, budget and organize a long trip, so it's no surprise that weekend getaway trips are catching on across the country.

In times of economic hardship, it's especially important for families to budget travel expenses without giving up the fun and adventure that a full-tilt vacation may provide. Short getaways or long weekend trips include much less planning and, of course, the chance to get out of town at a moment's notice.

Make Your Vacation Seem Longer - Take Weekends

By opting for longer weekends, many vacationers feel they are getting more, not less, vacation time. Spreading the traditional 14-21 vacation days over the four seasons also provides lots of opportunities for a short family road trip, fall foliage or winery tour, winter getaways or extended stays at summer campgrounds, theme parks or winter holiday ski trips.

"It all depends on your attitude," says New York native Mary Donough who, along with her husband and two kids have taken quick trips around the NYC metro area, Boston and Washington DC - even Cancun and Bermuda.

"While long stay vacations are fun to plan, it's so much more exciting to pack a few things, grab the kids and go, especially in the off-season. Once you find out how fun and affordable it can be, weekend trips are the only way to go."

For the best deals during peak season also look for US destinations that traditionally offer cheaper airfares, hotel room and meals - like Orlando or Las Vegas - for a complete travel package that won't break the bank.

also see -> Most Romantic Places in Chicago | Most Romantic Places in NYC

Most Romantic Places in Los Angeles | Most Romantic Places in Paris

More about weekend getaways around the Web:

Around the Web, check out top sites offering more information on fast and affordable weekend getaways, shopping excursions, ski trips and hiking treks for families, singles, and couples:

Family Travel Network - Interests & Activities - Use the left hand drop-down menu to access tips & advice on trips for Mothers Day, Fathers Day, winter and fall weekend getaways and related family travel fun on a budget.

Weekend Getaways Under $500 - Independent Traveler review of top locations around the U.S. offering cheap getaways with tips on budget restaurants and attractions.

Weekend Getaways - Expert tips from the Travel Channel with information on quick getaways from coast-to-coast including California beaches, college football weekends, holiday getaways, wine tours & unique weekend lodging.

Weekend Getaways - for families - About.com guide on where to bring the kids on long weekends in New England and the Northeast, the Midwest, Florida and the Southeast.

Top 10 Winter Family Getaways - Tips & ideas for U.S. outdoor adventures nationwide including what to see and do, information on national parks and campsites, hotels & other lodging options in Calfornia, Colorado, Michigan, South Carolina, West Virginia, and more.

also see -> Women's Travel & Girlfriend Getaways

Great Ideas for Budget Travel | Summer Activities for Adults