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ARDMORE, Okla. -- Pain at the pump has a lot of people down and reconsidering those summer vacations, but a new study by AAA released this month may brighten your spirits, and more importantly, get your kids excited about the great American family vacation. Robin Beal reports.

A lot of us have great memories of family road trips during school holidays, but with gas prices at an all-time high, and the economy lukewarm at best; people are getting away from the Griswold-style cross-county odyssey and looking for fun close to homes.

What is most important to family vacation planner Christie Wigley?

"Location. Just somewhere to get away that was actually economical to go to."

Christie is like a lot of moms. She wanted to get away, but wasn't able to spend a fortune. Her solution was hot Springs, Arkansas.

"They have the Bathhouse Row, and the Marvin Gardens, and just all these little antique shops to go to."

A new AAA study has found some of the most economical destinations are right in our own backyard, for some literally.

"We have the Oklahoma tour books, and we can fix you up for a great vacation right here in Oklahoma," Kaye Seeliger, AAA Travel, says.

One of the least expensive big cities to visit is Tulsa. The study found that for two adults, lodging and food should cost around $178 a day in Tulsa, far below the more than $350 per day if you went to Las Vegas or $600 a day in New York City.

"I believe Honolulu is the most expensive city, a little bit more than that, so Oklahoma looks like a bargain doesn't it?" Seeliger says.

So what are some tricks you can use to vacation on a budget? Of course, experts say stay within a few hours drive if you plan to make it a road trip.

"We make sure that we got a room with a kitchenette in it and an ice box and a microwave that way we can have leftovers and we just kind of snack throughout the day and just eat one good meal a day," Wigley says.

"Eat your big meal at lunch. Don't eat it in the evening. Lunch menus are a lot less expensive than dinner menus, so that may be a possibility," Seeliger advises.

Experts also say you should not be afraid to ask for discounts when you book a hotel; try to wheel and deal a little. Book as far in advance as possible.

Kaye also said our location is pretty good. If you live on the Texas side, a long weekend in Oklahoma City could be a great way to spend your time. AAA says Oklahoma is the sixth least expensive state to visit.