How to find good accommodation deals, dodge tourist traps, and save on tickets, according to travel experts. Many Americans are already eagerly planning their summer vacations. Unfortunately, the peak travel season often begets soaring airfares and hotel rates, which will lead almost one-third of prospective travelers to take on debt just to fund their dream trip, according to a survey conducted by Bankrate earlier this year. The financial comparison service also found that nearly one-quarter of Americans have decided to forgo vacationing altogether, with the vast majority citing an inability to afford it. The good news is that you don’t have to miss out on that much-needed getaway, and you certainly don’t have to rack up credit card bills just to enjoy some time away. With a little careful planning and a bit of budgeting, experts say, affordable travel is possible. Most people pick their destination before sitting down to iron out their budget. Another way to avoid high hotel rates is to avoid staying in a hotel altogether. Instead of getting a room at a prominent hospitality chain such as Hilton, Marriott, or Hyatt, Mercedes Zach, a travel agent with ASAP Tickets, recommended booking alternative accommodations such as hostels, vacation rentals, and Airbnbs, instead. Continue reading here.