By Andrew Housser

When you're on a budget, planning a vacation may seem like an unnecessary luxury. But studies show that taking a break from work and everyday life stressors is good for both physical and mental well-being. Vacations are rejuvenating. They also promote and strengthen family bonds. With some foresight and a little planning, you can enjoy your break without worrying about breaking the bank. Here are some suggestions to get you started.

1. Start saving.

You don't have to know where you're going in order to start socking away money to get you there. Take a look at your budget and figure out how much money per month you can afford to set aside in a vacation fund. Stash as little as $100 a month, and you'll have $1,200 to spend on next year's getaway. 

2. Pick a destination.

"Signing this bill sends a message that drivers need to focus on driving – not on sending a text," Governor Bentley said.  "There is nothing so urgent that it is worth risking your life, or the lives of others, by sending a text message while you are driving down the road." 

According to data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, texting while driving creates a crash risk that is 23 times greater than when a driver is not distracted. 

Also, sending or receiving a text message takes a driver's eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. For a driver going 55 miles-per-hour, that's the equivalent of driving the entire length of a football field.