Given the turbulent economic times, you are probably thinking that scaling back your expenses and skipping your next vacation are good ideas. Follow these tips if you are a money conscious traveler.
When in another country, use the ATM for pocket money rather than exchanging your cash at the local bank. Banks usually have better exchange rates that are significantly better than those available to individuals. This will save you a lot of your money over time.
Don’t use public computers for looking at sensitive information. They often have bad software installed which watches what you do.
The first step is to pick your vacation destination. Then, research your destination. Buy a comprehensive map of where you are going, study the environment, and research the attractions being offered there. The more you know about the environment, the easier it will be to get around when you are there.
Before you travel, make a list of what you will pack. Start as soon as you can before your trip, that way you can add your must-have items to the list as you think of them. Even if you end up packing at the last minute, this will help you remain organized and avoid unnecessary clutter.
When you travel, keep your bag light and only pack it full of essentials. This will help you avoid having anything lost. Limit the amount of shoes you take.
When traveling by car to a port prior to cruising, search for lodgings where you can park at no cost and make reservations for the night before departure. Ask the staff at the hotel if they offer any parking discounts even if they don’t have any published.
Make sure you check that you are getting the best price through the carrier themselves. Although some websites offer low prices, there may not actually be a flight to that exact location.
Make sure to tip the bell station and the housekeeper appropriately. You don’t have to overdo it, though, just a simple dollar per bag and no more than five dollars a day for the housekeeper is adequate enough. You will have a better relationship with them when you are staying at the hotel.
Lost Passport
Plan in advance for possible travel disruptions, like a lost passport. The State Department has contact information on the website for your destination’s U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You can find this at the United States Department of State which has useful information in case you need to know what to do for a lost passport or some other emergency. Take this documentation on vacation. You passport might only take a day or so to replace.
If your car has to be left at an airport while you travel, make sure you pre-book airport parking ahead of time. You should save money this way. Consider a taxi if you live near the airport.
Before you travel, make budgeting easier by finding out about currency exchange rates beforehand. Knowing how much your dollar is worth when traveling can help you see what to spend and make an itinerary that can help you save, too. You will have more fun this way.
You should buy a National Park season pass if you visit them often. For fifty dollars, you can visit all the parks all year long.
Make sure you don’t fall asleep before eight pm so you can adjust faster to a different time zone. If you feel tired because of the change in time zone you can make it worse by going to bed too early. The quicker you get used to local time, the quicker jet lag will fade.
If you have any allergies, especially food allergies, have these written down when traveling for better communication. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, let servers know what you’re able to eat and not eat. These cards can help you have a better dining experience when you’re away.
Extra Pair
Take an extra pair of eyeglasses with you on vacation if you depend on them. This way, if your glasses break on your flight or on your trip, you have a spare pair. Make sure your extra pair is not in your carry on or handbag, as this luggage can get stolen.
If you are planning on going out of the country, you should buy an electrical adapter from a discount store. If you wait to buy one while you are traveling, you will probably pay much more money than you would have at home.
If you book your own seat on the flight, you may be able to make your trip much more comfortable. Many times you can pick the specific area or seat on the plane that you want, however, sometimes this is not possible. Make sure to take this option if at all possible. Doing so can help to improve the comfort of your flight.
When traveling by plane, it is a good idea to check in the night before to confirm your reservation. Monitor it throughout your time at the airport.
Never wrap the presents. Often times the TSA will need to open your neatly wrapped present to ensure there is nothing hazardous. Just stash away some gift paper inside your luggage, and wrap your gifts after arrival.
Travel light so that you do not have to tote extra baggage. Only bring the items you find essential. You should be able to get by with just a carry-on bag at the airport, for example, saving you money and stress. Another benefit is that your carry-on bags will not be as heavy if they don’t have non-essential items.
No matter the state of your finances or the economy, you don’t need to stay at home this year. Apply the advice from this article and you will be on your way to budget friendly travels in no time.