Gas prices are high, yes. But so is our desire to travel. With summer in full swing, it’s time to get away for at least an afternoon or a day excursion. So what’s a fun-loving, penny-wise, energy-conscious mother to do?
   
One word – “cluster.” That is, visit places within the same area, and know what else there is to see and do within the immediate vicinity. Research the many locales in the Inland Empire that are within an hour's drive – and plan ahead to take your kids to several places in one day. It'll save a ton of travel time and gas, and the kids will love it!


GAS-SAVING TRAVEL TIPS

Other gas-saving travel tips:
> ALWAYS CALL AHEAD: Confirm that the places you want to visit are open, as they can close temporarily for maintenance, or close permanently; that the hours are what you think they are; and that the one attraction – the entire reason for going – is open that day.

> PLAN: If you are going to several places in one day, map them out. Figure out which place to visit first, second and third, and rank them either in order of importance or by distance. I go to the one furthest away from home first, so my drive directly home at the end of the day, when everyone is tired, is shorter.

> CHECK FOR DISCOUNTS: AAA members receive discounted admission at certain attractions. Amusement parks sometimes offer discounts on their Web site. Call the place you want to visit first and ask if, and where, discounts are available.

Susan Peterson is a freelance writer. Her guidebook, “Fun and Educational Places to Go With Kids and Adults in Southern California,” has indexes by city, by price and by theme.