Families wanting to beat the credit crunch should head west, say Ranch Rider

The significant hike in oil prices and sinking pound in comparison to the Euro are both factors that are undoubtedly causing people to shift their summer holidays to better value destinations. Rather than staying close to home, families in particular are opting for more far-flung locations to make the most of their hard earned money.

Recent reports state that travel to the US is on the up, figures revealing that holidays to America have increased by 13% in 2008. Undoubtedly, the US is not immune to fuel surcharges on flights, which range from £130 to £230 dependant on the airline, but according to Ranch Rider, the destination itself is a better value option, especially if families choose to stay at home on the range.

Tony Daly, Managing Director of Ranch Rider, comments: "In comparison to last year's figures, we have seen an increase in bookings to various states including Colorado (11%), Arizona (12%), Wyoming (15%) and Montana (18%). Many of our family led ranch stays are at prices lower than or equal to 2007 and this has softened the effect of rising fuel surcharges.

“Ranch stays are also full board and many properties will include activities in the package - a massive incentive for families who are already facing financial crises with the credit crunch back home. On a practical level, families can budget for almost the entire holiday – safe in the knowledge that if they do go off ranch, prices in their chosen destination won't break the bank. Ultimately, as the pound stretches further in the US than in Europe parents don't have to limit their stay and many families travelling with us have opted to extend their holiday with a seven-night self-drive.

"We have contracts with various airlines and we do work hard to ensure we get the best deal available. Prices can vary dramatically, but families looking to book now for their summer holiday will still have feasible options open to them, even with the additional fuel surcharge."

Families opting to head west with Ranch Rider will also have a greater choice of locations to choose from this summer, as the operator has recently added the Beartooth River Ranch to its US portfolio.

The Third generation working guest ranch, situated by the Clark's Fork of the Yellowstone River, still raises cattle, sheep, alfalfa, corn and sugar beets, ensuring unrivalled opportunities for families to soak up Montana's authentic Western lifestyle. Cowboy activities vary according to the season from wrangling horses, to branding, doctoring or moving cattle; and those looking for wild pursuits out of the saddle can opt for mountain biking and hiking into the famed Beartooth Mountains.

Pelicans, blue herons, bald eagles, mountain lions and even the occasional bear will be ready to greet ranchers - however, families can also head off ranch and sample Western city culture in Cody with trips to the Buffalo Bull Museum and night time rodeo. A true Wild West haven, in the evening parents and their little cowboys and Indians might find themselves strolling along the river and discussing the day's activities or enjoying the weekly BBQ held at the original homestead cabin. (7-nights with Ranch Rider from £859pp).

The above price includes all accommodation (full board), and all ranch based riding. Excludes International flight, gratuities and transfers. Ranch Rider offers flights from the following departure airports, Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Additional departure airports including Aberdeen, Bristol, Cardiff, Leeds/Bradford, Humberside, Teeside, Newcastle and Norwich are available at a £50pp supplement.

For more information, visit Ranchrider.com.