How can you escape the cold? Plan a great vacation!

Sometimes just planning a vacation can go a long way to driving away those winter chills.

As rest and recuperation are essential to health, you want to plan it right! Use these 11 tips to maximize the physical, family, and spiritual benefits of a well-planned vacation.

1. Plan in Advance ““ As far out as possible. Decide where and when you want to go. Calculate how much money you need and save consistently toward it.

2. Research Your Destination ““ Check online for deals, discounts, coupons and free activities.

3. Bring Your Coupons ““ Pack coupons for grocery items. It's cheaper to buy items at the store than to eat out every meal. Don't forget restaurant coupons.

4. Pack Meals and Snacks ““ Use a box or cooler to pack snack and sustainable breakfast items.

5. Share Meals ““ When you eat out, share a meal. Being hungry (and tired) can override better judgment and result in ordering too much food. Remember, you can always order more if someone is still hungry.

6. Shop Your Accommodations ““ Find the best deal you can. Call hotels directly and ask for the lowest price. Find a hotel that offers free breakfast to save on food. If vacationing for a few nights or more, consider resorts or home vacation rentals. Often the per-night total is lower, the space is larger, and most have a kitchen, to cook meals instead of eating out.

7. Research Free Transportation ““ Some accommodations offer free tram or shuttle service to/from attractions or the airport. You have to abide by their schedule, but it saves big in parking fees and gas.

8. Research Traffic Patterns ““ If you drive yourself, use the web to map out routes and learn local traffic. Knowing an alternate route (or a better time to be in transit) can save gas and a lot of time.

9. Make a Packing List ““ And check it twice. It will show you ahead of time things you need ““ allowing time to look for a great deal on that must-have item.

10. Look for Bundled Vacations ““ You can save by purchasing hotel, attraction tickets and transportation together. But do your research first ““ bundling is not always the cheapest.

11. Travel with Friends or Family ““ And share costs. It makes a nice vacation more affordable and a lot more fun.