How to save on your summer vacation

(WXYZ) - Summer is the most popular time to travel. But, a great vacation doesn't happen by accident. Planning is key, especially when it comes to keeping on a budget. It doesn't matter where you're going this summer - you can stay on a budget.

Rob Stiver is always looking for ways he and his family of four can save a little cash. He starts by packing plenty of snacks for his songs.

"If there is food you can bring with you, if you have the room to pack it, it's better to do that. Prepare some stuff to take along with you," Stiver says.

Food is one of the biggest expenses when you're on-the-go. So it's not a bad idea to book a hotel where breakfast is included. That can save a family of four a minimum of twenty dollars a day.

That's why Stiver tries to book hotel rooms with kitchens.

"It's a suite so it has a refrigerator and stove and microwave so we can actually make some of our own meals and not have to go out and get fast food. So it saves money, plus it's better for us too," says Stiver.

Before you hit the road, look for Groupons and LivingSocial specials. Sometimes you can save 50% on daily deals. Travelers can also trim lodging costs by hundreds of dollars, by simply splitting the cost.

"Look into things such as a condominium where you may have at least two or three families sharing the cost," says Robert Ross, a AAA spokesperson.

Another way to save big is by bundling. You can get great deals by purchasing your airfare, hotel and rental car, all in one package so you don't waste your money.