JACKSONVILLE, Fla – AAA is predicting an 8 percent increase in travelers this summer over last year.
This comes after the travel season kicked off last weekend with what was predicted to be the most traveled Memorial Day weekend in 10 years.
Recommended Videos
Whether looking for a hotel or airfare, a local financial planner suggests to always use travel websites like Priceline, Kayak and Expedia, just to name a few.
Many people say traveling definitely depends on the economy so they're happy it's on the road to recovery.
"Well, my son goes to college down towards Lakeland so we will probably put the both of those together get him moved and get a little vacation done," Vince Pellegreino said.
Pellegreino is killing two birds with one stone, but says they're always looking to save money.
"It plays a big part unfortunately this year we get to combine business with pleasure. In the past we go to the beach or down south sometimes the mountains," he said.
A new AAA survey says that 77 percent of people living in Florida and Georgia plan to take at least one summer vacation trip this year between the months of May and September.
More than half (56 percent) of those vacation plans will be trips that last four to seven days, and nearly two-thirds (65 percent) say they will drive instead of fly because of lower gas prices.
"Gas prices in general are at low points and we think they are going to fall through the summer," said Joe Krier of Krier Wealth Management. "So if you're traveling a little bit later in the summer you'll probably do better than right now."
Krier also recommends instead of staying in the hottest spots or most desired locations, stay in the outskirts.
"50 miles out will save a ton of money as far as lodging goes," Krier said. "Just plan even the outskirts of Orlando for people traveling from around the country they can find a hotel for half the price compared to staying 5 miles from Disney."
"I'm glad to hear the economy is getting better," Pellegreino said.
Another service Krier recommends giving a try is a website called AIRBNB.com.
Thousands of people world wide rent out spare rooms in their house and they have certain criteria they have to adhere to in order to be a host.
He says he has heard nothing but good reviews and that it can save you a lot of money. There is also an app for it.