Tips for winter break

(WTNH) - Travel Writer Allison Umbricht has tips for winter break.

If you haven't planned your February family vacation yet, here are some ideas of where to go and how to save money:

1. Mountains/Snow - Lots of specials - Vermont, consider out west - Vail.
2. City-Boston - aquarium, children's museum, museum of science - stay in a hotel with a pool
3. Indoor water park
4. Warm Weather -Right now its cheaper to fly to California and Arizona then it is to Florida and the Caribbean. Outside of Phoenix there are some fabulous family resorts. San Diego is a great spot too with Sea World, Legoland,
How to save money:
Remember this is the most expensive time of the year to travel south. However, here are some tips to help you save :
1. Be Flexible - Change your expectations - if you want to go away for a week, try flying Tues-Sat -Particularly since many Feb breaks are Pres Deay weekend week - go after the holiday. Come back on Monday if possible.
2. Location - be flexible -Look at flights before getting set on a destination. Flights vary so much and one island may be significantly cheaper than another. Particularly true if using frequent flyer miles.
3. Book your air and hotel in a package - Look into booking a vacation package - often the air and hotel are discounted when booked together. (Vacation packages are often cheaper)
4. Last minute travel deals - check Airfarewatchdog.com , Groupon, deal of the day, enlist help of a travel agent. Ask hotels for the best deals -
5. Social media experts - follow your favorite airlines or hotels for the latest deals(Use social media to find the best deals) Twitter, facebook

If you already have your vacation planned, here are some tips to help your trip go smoothly with kids:
1. If there is a storm coming, airlines sometimes cancel flights a day before - confirm your flights the day before you leave. If yours is canceled you'll have the chance to rebook then rather than waiting in long lines at the airport.
2. Consider shipping supplies ahead - even skis…
3. Does your toddler love Dora? Elmo? Blue's Clues? Print your child's favorite character coloring pages and activities online.
4. Check out supermarket delivery services at your destination for next day delivery of food items directly to your hotel.
5. Use the latest technology to make your trip easier -paperless boarding passes on your mobile device make security lines less painful. Use social media to find the latest and best deals - for things to do while you are there.
6. Charge those electronics!!

For more great tips, check out Allison's website , or follow her on twitter or facebook .