Is your vacation fund empty? You can put your getaway on layaway.

A number of travel agencies offer layaway options, including Sears.

The retailer recently launched "Sears Vacations."

An executive says Sears customers have come to expect layaway as a payment option.

It can be a smart option, according to Consumer Watchdogs. But they say don't any additional fees, and don't put the installments on a credit card.