Relocating for family or employment is something we all do at some point. It also is a huge financial burden if tackled without forethought. Here are a few tips to help avoid the overspending that can occur with a typical family move.

Towing: If you have a sturdy vehicle with a towing hitch, consider renting a cart or cargo trailer instead of a traditional moving van. Mileage charges for the latter can be significant for a long-distance move, so this strategy is a huge opportunity to save money.

Containers: Buying giant boxes from moving stores can be expensive. Chain hardware stores have large boxes for less, and office supply stores offer affordable, easily-assembled file boxes in bulk. Also check Craigslist. For children's sports gear and toys, Ziploc and Hefty sell giant, reusable plastic bags, which provide see-through storage and come with handles for easy carrying.

Downsizing: Having fewer items to relocate means less stress and reduced shipping costs. If a heavy furniture item is going to add too many dollars to your bottom moving line, it might be more financially beneficial to sell or donate it before your move.

Amenities: If you're moving with kids in tow, cheaping it out on hotel amenities might not be the best idea. If your room comes with a microwave, refrigerator and coffeepot, as well as a swimming pool and exercise facility, you have built-in entertainment and meal savings.

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Have fun on the runThe Phd Pocket Disc ($10-$15; www.livelovecatch.com) is a perfect toy for the road. The crocheted flying disc, created by Guatemalan women who produce them under fair-trade practices, can be crushed in the bottom of a suitcase and come out ready to fly.

Throw it just as you would a Frisbee. It's surprisingly aerodynamic and behaves much like a plastic flying disc.

The beauty of the discs, beyond their colorful designs, is that they won't break things, so you can play indoors or out. The sport model works better outdoors, however, because it's bigger and heavier. If you're looking for something other than an electronic game to keep kids occupied on a trip, this will do the trick.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE