Celebrate America's birthday with lots of fun and festivity. The Fourth of July holiday is a time to enjoy picnics, parades, and fireworks. We have lots of great ideas to help you plan the perfect Fourth of July celebration. See for yourself!

Pack Up Your Family for a Festive July 4th Vacation

America's red, white and blue celebration is just around the corner. If you're planning to "Go 4th" with a vacation over the extended holiday weekend, now is the time to take care of all your travel essentials. Keep it simple by picking a destination that's casual and fun. You won't have to do much more than pack the bags, water the plants and go.

Wherever you go, a few essentials will make your trip more carefree. Leave your purse at home and travel light with a waist pack and wallet in one to keep your valuables close at hand. Don't be caught unprepared- that July sun is a scorcher, so outfit everyone with sunglasses, a cool club crusher hat, plenty of sunscreen, soothing moisturizers, and insect repellent. Nothing will stop a vacation in its tracks like sunburn. For extra protection, pack a summer survival kit.

Happy kids equal happy vacation. Take along their favorite snacks and games to keep the mood playful. They won't have to wait to have fun if you bring along something like a lego rolling suitcase, complete with a built-in playboard and room to store Lego blocks. Don't forget a trash stash auto garbage bag to keep your car neat and clean during the trip as well.

Simple planning pays big returns on vacation enjoyment, and a few savvy purchases can make all the difference. Have a safe and happy holiday!