Whenever you board a cruise ship, just as you’re getting settled in your cabin on the first day, all kinds of bells and whistles go off. If it doesn’t scare the hell out of you, you’ll quickly realize that disaster drills are required at the start of all cruise sailings.

According to USA Today and the Associated Press, ticket costs were at their lowest at the end of June of this year. Then, for the next two months, the prices are expected to rise along with demand during the heaviest summer vacation travel period.

The best airfare bargains, especially for seniors and retirees not restricted by work schedules, are from mid-September to early November. Then the prices spike again for year-end holiday travel. The same seasonal and economic fluctuations in prices apply to the cruise industry.

Instead of inching along the highway for eight weekend hours to get to a crowded beach, or flying eight hours to get to a crowded theme park, try a staycation this year. It is not only a very simple task, but you can be sure your grandkids will enjoy it just as much as trying to see the guy dressed as Mickey and getting sick on the roller coaster.

Have the kids help you to pitch a tent in the backyard. Line the inside ground with blankets and equip everyone with sleeping bags or inflated mattresses. Take the kids to the local store and have them choose whatever they want for the overnight camping experience.

When you’re all settled in at dusk, start a campfire and cook your dinner in pans. In the morning, do the same for breakfast. Steaks, chicken parts, hot dogs, bacon, eggs or whatever the kids want. Carve tree branches into sticks for toasting marshmallows and hot dogs.

Forget the world outside, and in fact, also, for just those fun hours, forget TV, computers, twitter, cell phones and any other kind of electricity. Sit around the campfire and have all tell spooky stories, jokes and sing songs. If it rains, retreat into the tent, light a candle and have the same fun to the beat of the rain on the canvas.

OK, you’re permitted to have one modern item. Bring your camera, still or video, and record this memorable night that will bring you and your family joy for years.

They’re still out there, fighting for your independence. Remember them on Independence Day, and every day until they all come home safely.  Send a letter, email, photo, CD, DVD, gift package or whatever you choose to a serviceman or woman. You can get addresses of hometown heroes at your local church, veterans organization, Red Cross and Salvation Army branches. Some online resources include uso.org, amillionthanks.org, anysoldier.com, operationshoebox.com and nationalserviceresources.org.