(StatePoint) – Dream vacations come in all shapes and sizes. For some, it may be visiting every ballpark nationwide. For others, it may be island hopping in the Caribbean.

Yet, nearly three-quarters of Americans haven’t taken their dream vacation because they think it’s too expensive, according to a recent Bank of America survey. But dream vacations don’t have to be out of reach. Ted Allen, travel expert and Food Network host, has teamed with Bank of America to provide the following smart budget travel tips:

• Monitor airfare and hotel rates a few months out to potentially save hundreds of dollars on last minute price surges. Travel during off-peak times to stretch your budget and avoid crowds.

• Establishing a personal connection with travel representatives helps to open doors for hidden upgrades and deals. For example, with one phone call you may be able to check a bag for free.

• Use a credit card that rewards you for the purchases you make throughout the year. “My BankAmericard Travel Rewards credit card earns an unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases, and since my points don’t expire I can save them up to offset future travel expenses,” Allen said. “And it’s great when I travel overseas because there are no foreign transaction fees.”

Don’t defer your dream vacation forever. Simple tips can make your dream a reality.