One of the simplest ways to keep your budget under control is to find digs with a kitchen or, at the very least, an in-room fridge and microwave. When you're not forced to eat three meals a day at restaurants, your food spend becomes immediately more controllable. That's why all-suite hotels and vacation rentals are excellent bets for budget-minded families.

Want to do even better? Seek out an all-suite property with a great deal on the table. Like the Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Hotel & Ski Resort, which is blessed with a tremendous location right on the lake shore, an indoor pool, and a "Tahoe Suite Retreat 2008" package that delivers $100 in hotel credit when you stay four or more nights. (The deal works on a sliding scale. Stay two nights, get a $50 credit. Spend three nights, get $75 to play with.) Every suite at the hotel has a bedroom and separate living room with a sofa bed, refrigerator, and microwave. More good news: You also get a free cooked-to-order breakfast every morning and an evening reception with complimentary beverages. Rates during the fall start at $219 a night. 

This offer has a two-night minimum and is valid now through December 18 (blackout dates: November 27-28).