I'd like to say that whether the beach house we rent with family does or does not have a Wi-Fi connection is of no matter to me, but I'd be lying. The truth is I have not had a vacation in the past few years that didn't involve doing a bit of work in between some fun and relaxation. 

Even if we don't plan to work on vacation, many of us bring the tools that enable work with us: a laptop and a web-connected cellphone. Every year, it seems more people are toting BlackBerrys and other phones that deliver email and web service. Finger them enough during a typical workday, and checking email even when you don't have to check email becomes a pretty dependable habit.

Last year, one in five people packed a laptop along with sunscreen and swimsuits, according to an AP-Ipsos poll. And one in five used it to do some work, while 40 percent checked work email messages and 50 percent checked voice mail. This year, there are signs that some of us are saying enough. An Orbitz poll found that 29 percent of respondents feel compelled to stay connected with work while on vacation compared with 33 percent last year. And 64 percent of soon-to-be vacationers said they would not check email while away, up from 60 percent. Younger workers (ages 18 - 34) were more likely to stay connected than travelers age 55 and over. Little surprise there.

Are you still among those compelled to bring some tech along on a trip? Set some boundaries. Don't open up a laptop within view and log on for no reason. You know every time you walk by, you'll be checking in on something work related. Set a time of day -- early in the morning or at night -- to check emails. Respond only if it is dire; that's what your out-of-office message is for. And don't let a half hour stretch to three hours.

If you think having your BlackBerry or other web-connected phone will prompt you to check in on work-related info more than help you find fun-related venues, leave it home. Take a regular old cellphone with you instead.

Those are just a few obvious tips that too often bear reminding. But what works for you? Do you totally disconnect or do you find that technology allows you to mix work and vacation in a good way? If there is such a thing.