For most people, planning a vacation is part of the fun. For weeks or months before you leave, you envision sea breezes, exotic foods or whatever delights your destination may offer.

But, before you book any flights or hotels, it is important to establish a budget. "I tell my customers the first step in planning a vacation is to determine how much you can comfortably spend," says Rob Baluchi, a financial center manager at Fifth Third Bank. "Once you have that end point in mind, you can make plans accordingly."

Next, Baluchi encourages customers to estimate costs for the entire trip. This includes transportation, lodging, food and entertainment - plus, any necessary shopping before the trip. "If one aspect of your vacation is a priority, it may be necessary to scale back in others," he says. For example:

If Walt Disney World® is your destination, it may be helpful to scale back on costs by driving instead of flying. Or, instead of staying a week, it may be better to stay only a few days. Perhaps instead of lodging in a hotel on Disney grounds, you may want to consider a nearby hotel that offers free shuttle service.

If sightseeing across the United States is what you have in mind, it may be helpful to stop at a few campsites along the way to reduce lodging costs. To reduce your food bill, it may be helpful to carry a cooler and make some meals along the way.

If you are headed to the beach, it may be helpful to travel off-season. Compared to early spring, Florida and Caribbean vacations are much cheaper in the late spring and early summer - and just as enjoyable.

If rest and relaxation are your priorities, you may want to consider renting a lakeside cabin. "You can greatly reduce costs by staying in one place and making many of your own meals," Baluchi says.

For many people, the current economy prevents them from taking a traditional getaway vacation. If that's the case, you may want to consider attending free events in your city, visiting local parks, taking day trips throughout your state - or even planning special times at home.

To learn more about budgeting for a vacation, contact Fifth Third at (866) 475-4201 or visit 53.com