Florida residents enjoy a variety of benefits, from sunny beaches to some of the world's best theme parks within driving distance. With almost 1,200 miles of coastline, Florida residents are never far away from a quick getaway in the sun.

With so many destinations, choosing a place to visit can be a difficult decision! For many people, Tampa is the obvious choice. With sunny beaches and tons of attractions, Tampa offers a variety of activities at reasonable rates. Enjoy a long weekend in Tampa this fall with a variety of ways to save money on a quick, last-minute getaway:

• Avoid traveling around the holidays, when hotel rates can double in price. The best bargains on a hotel or Tampa car rental can usually be found before Thanksgiving.
• Ask about discounts available to students, military, corporate, AAA, and more. Many activities and attractions offer discounts, but you'll need to show your ID or membership card to get them.
• Book your hotel rental in advance. Travelers that wait until they arrive at their vacation destination to find a hotel do not have access to the much lower rates available online. The same rule applies when looking for a Tampa car rental. Make sure to book your car rental reservation in advance to receive the best price and guarantee that a vehicle is available.
• Use local restaurant and attraction discount booklets. These books are loaded with discount coupons that you can use on your trip to save money on dining, hotels, and entertainment.  
• Speaking of dining out, there are a variety of ways to save money while enjoying the finest fare Florida has to offer. If you don't mind eating early, look for less expensive early-bird specials offered at many restaurants. You can also save money by splurging on a meal at lunch rather than dinner. You'll get the same quality of food, but at a much lower price.
• If you plan to attend one of Florida's famous theme parks, buy your tickets in advance online. Walt Disney World, Universal, and Sea World all offer discounts on online rates for Florida residents. Plus, you'll save time waiting in line to buy tickets when you arrive.

For the traveler in the know, these money saving tips can help you know where and when you'll get the best deal. By planning your trip in advance, you'll be sure to save money and get more for your vacation dollar.