If you’ve been feeling the financial pinch, you may be thinking of cutting vacations out of your budget to save money. Read on for some great tips for the traveler on a budget.
On your travels it is best to avoid using a public computer for sensitive information such as checking your bank account. Some individuals may have installed keyloggers to steal your information.
Most people live and die by reserving the seat next to the window; however, you should consider one on the aisle. Though the window seat offers a view, there are few benefits to it. The aisle seat lets you have access to bathrooms easily, overhead compartments and airline personnel. It also gives you one side free of confinement.
When making a hotel reservation, try asking about dates for any possible renovations if you can. Hammering or drilling could ruin your stay. Avoid this to reduce the noise that you hear on vacation.
Rush Hour
Work to stay out of rush hour when driving on a long trip. If you can’t plan your trip where you won’t be driving during rush hour, use that time to stop for a break. This is a great time to grab a bite or give the kids some exercise.
If you’re about to embark on a long road trip with your children, pack one or two cookie sheets. Use these to level coloring books or playing cards for the children. Bring magnetic letters for more fun.
Look at when your passport expires. Some countries have very specific rules regarding passports, including when they expire. Most countries will not permit you to enter with an expired passport if it is within a given time frame. These times can be three or six months, or even eight months to a year.
If you are using traveler’s checks, cash them in before you go to shop or eat. While it is true that most places accept traveler’s checks, they are difficult to work with. You may get shorted when you use them; so, have them converted to local money prior to shopping.
Know the currency rates before traveling so you can budget. You can come up with an itinerary and budget to help you save money. This will allow you to have fun without overspending.
When traveling with a child, be sure to take regular breaks. Taking a break allows you to stretch your legs and use a bathroom. Also, if your child has motion sickness, it is a good idea to let them out of your car once in awhile. While you may not get to your destination as quickly as you’d hoped, you will get there in good spirits.
When taking a long plane trip, bring some edible snacks in your bag. Fruit, nuts or granola make excellent options. Not only will it save you money when it comes to pricey airport fare, it can also be a conversation starter as travel neighbors see your goodies.
If you plan to travel out of the country, bring bottled water. In many countries, potable water has not been thoroughly cleaned, and can be responsible for a wide range of ailments. Make sure you use bottled water when choosing to brush your teeth. It is possible to get sick from using the water when brushing your teeth.
If there is hotel room available on a floor that is higher, you should request that one. Rooms on the ground level have a tendency to be targeted by thieves more often as they offer easier access. Be sure to also ask for quarters which do not have sliding doors. It’s easier to gain unwanted access to these types of rooms.
Stretch your legs at least once every hour if you are going on a long trip. Sitting for too long is not only bad for your muscles, but it can cause blood clots.
No matter the state of your finances or the economy, you don’t need to stay at home this year. If you use the advice contained in this article, you will have no problem getting that next vacation set up.