Spend Less on Last-Minute Summer Getaways -- Savings Experiment

Last-minute summer getaways are a great way to save on a family vacation -- you just have to think outside the box. Here are some places where you can take advantage of seasonal deals and get the most bang for your buck.

Ski towns in Colorado and Vermont offer all of the beauty of the mountains without the pricey lift tickets. There's plenty to do, including jet skiing, hiking, horseback riding and more. Lodging is considerably cheaper in the summer than it is during ski season, so you can't lose.

If you're looking for a bargain beach getaway, head to a lake. You'll get to experience beautiful beaches no matter if you're at the Great Lakes or Lake Tahoe, and you can indulge in all of the same ocean-water sports for a fraction of the cost.

Florida beach towns should also be considered. People tend to head south during the winter and spring, so you can score great deals on hotels and flights in the summer. Try planning a trip to Fort Lauderdale to take in the ocean, sun and sand.

So, if you want to get away this season, look before you book. There are plenty of places you can visit without breaking your budget.

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