Summer on a budget

In a economic downturn how do you trim back your budget to accommodate summer vacations?

Well, some of things our family has done this summer have included

a) Before we buy we ask ourselves -- do we really need it now or can be put it off to later

b) If we do buy, we call around and use the web to comparison shop often asking stores to price match

c) We often go out for lunch rather than dinner, you get the same meals but at a cheaper price

d) Paying more with cash -- I find it harder to part with cash then debit or credit

e) Finding alternative places like thrift stores, garage sales, outlet malls -- fun and entertaining 

f) Prebook hotels and ask about specials and use web services like expedia and then ask for price match.

g) Look for combination deals -- i.e. hotel and show -- often a good way to save lots of money

h) Conservation around your house is a great way to save and be environmentally conscience.

There are many more -- so what do you do to save this summer?