In a perfect world, we'd all have fully funded vacation accounts to pay for our annual family getaways. The reality: Most of us are just now starting to think about this summer's vacation. Here are some fast-track ways to save for your big trip.

Don't let the family vacation sneak up and catch you unprepared this year. Guarantee a fun time by following these easy steps:

1. Start with a spending plan
2. Sacrifice now for fun later
3. Build cash with a 'Pantry Week'
4. Eat out less, save big
5. Make a savings wall chart
6. Sell your stuff
7. Use your tax refund -- now
8. Let credit cards pay you back

Decide upfront how much you'll spend on your vacation. Get specific. Along with plane tickets (or gas, if you're driving) and hotel prices, guesstimate costs for meals, souvenirs, and park or museum admissions. Total it all up. If the number sends you into shock, cut back on costs -- now, on paper -