How to enjoy your stay while keeping account balance at bay.
Unsplash Christine RoyThere’s always something so dreadful about checking your account balance while traveling. Money seems to spend itself in new and foreign places, and somehow, it always disappears faster than you expected. With a few small changes to your traveling routine, you can stay comfortably within your budget while having the time of your life. Here are some ways to steer clear of the common, money-draining culprits and make the most out of any trip:
1. Book in advance.
This may as well be the golden rule of travel. Planning ahead will almost always get you the best deals, the widest selection, and most pleasantly of all, peace of mind. Few things change as rapidly as airfare, so don’t wait and hope that prices will fall. Once you’re certain on where you’re going, snag your tickets and get to booking your accommodations.
2. Buddy your bank.
There’s nothing like arriving in your anticipated destination only to find that your bank has frozen your account. For international travel, you can avoid this anxiety by notifying your bank that you’ll be using your card outside the country. Don’t forget to inquire about your bank’s ATM withdrawal fees, as the 3 euro (about 4 dollars) charges per visit really do add up. You can also open a new account with a bank that doesn’t charge the withdrawal fee; Bank of America has partners across the globe, allowing you to take money out without any additional cost, and Charles Schwab lets you withdraw at any ATM in the world, reimbursing your withdrawal fees at the end of every month.
3. Beware of the exchange rate.
During my first weeks in Spain, I noticed myself spending euros as if they were dollars. One euro is about $1.30 American dollars, and for smaller purchases, prices seem more or less equal. This is supremely untrue with bigger purchases, so make sure to do the conversions before buying. Be especially attentive to prices when the currency of your destination has the stronger currency, it’ll go fast if you’re not careful! Download the XE Currency app to make quick currency conversions wherever you go.
4. Take the overnight.
My experiences exploring Europe have taught me that traveling by train can actually be quite comfortable. If you have the option to take the overnight train or red-eye flight, take it. The less you spend on transportation, the more you can dish out at your destination!
5. The more the merrier.
Not only will traveling with friends make for a more interesting trip, but it will also create more attractive and affordable options. For the same price as a hostel, you can rent a nice hotel or private room with one or more other people. Browse through Airbnb to find affordable and unique lodging options.
6. Resist airport food everything.
Also known as markup galore, airports love to entice travelers with snacks, drinks, clothing, massage services–you name it. Waiting for your connecting flight is a drag, and airports thrive on your boredom; it’s like the big, neon “Duty Free” signs blink just for you. Start with the muffin here, a magazine there, and before you know it, you’re twenty euros poorer and somehow still unsatisfied. Lose yourself in a fun book and munch on an energy bar instead, I promise you’ll survive.
7. Watch your pockets.
Literally. Though more commonplace in big cities, pickpocketing is universal, and the last place you want your money is in the hands of a thief. Girls, keep your handbags zipped and boys, put those wallets in your front pockets. Be alert of your surroundings and blend in as much a possible, tourists are easy targets.
8. Explore the art of bargaining.
I used to be too shy to haggle, but after eye witnessing some amazing transactions, I’ve realized there’s nothing to lose in trying. I’m no expert on bargaining, but the good old “I’m going to have to think about it” and then staging an exit method has a high success rate. Bargaining is an easy way to work on your patience and negotiation skills, and there’s no doubt you’ll feel accomplished when you’ve talked down that leather fanny pack.
And most importantly…
9. Enjoy your trip.
Being mindful of the aforementioned tips can really make your travels last, but obsessing over every dime and penny will surely put a damper on your trip. Traveling, by definition, costs money, but remember you’re doing it to have an unforgettable time. Treat yourself to an exotic meal once in a while and splurge on the gondola ride you’ve always daydreamed about. You’ve come a long way to reach your destination, don’t let anything get in fun’s way!
