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Wondering what's doing in your relatives' neighborhood? Read on for FTF's advice on making your stay a cheap vacation and your staycation an exciting getaway.

Visiting relatives or in-laws may sound disappointing when planning a precious summer or winter holiday, but they could live in a fascinating place that other families are paying good money to see. Before you set off, yet again, to relive boring times, bad eating habits, and the usual squabbles, contact the tourism office or chamber of commerce in your intended region, and ask for a free packet of tourist information.

Another Road Trip, Ugh

Don't let high fuel prices dampen your enthusiasm for a family roadtrip, usually the most economical option for visiting relatives. Make getting there as much fun as being there.

Take your time, and let children use maps to help plan out rest stops.

En route, your food and lodging expenses can add up quickly.  Keep it thrifty by packing a cooler of snacks and giving every passenger a refillable water bottle. Shop for picnics and look for scenic roadstops at mid-day, or keep bathing suits close at hand and visit a local lake.

To find affordable digs for the night, bypass the main interstates and show your family the backroads of America, where small motels offer better rates and a pool to splash in at day's end. Or research the local youth hostel, where for under $20 per person you can find a comfortable family room with bunk beds. Your kids are bound to make lots of friends, too.

Lastly, don't forget to mind the speed limit; you'll save a lot in fuel efficiency and get to savor some beautiful countryside.