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36. 'Cash' only when you need to! Only cash traveller's checks when you
really need money. Take no risk of carrying too much cash with you for no real
apparent reason. Avoid being stuck with too much local currency from a foreign
destination that you will lose money on if converting. Use all your small coins
before changing notes. They make great tips! Minimize ATM and credit card
transactions as they both carry transactional and administration fees - they are
convenient but expensive.
37. Guarding your identity, travel documentation and ensuring document
accessibility is a travel priority. Proof of identity and citizenship is
your most prized travel possession. It is advised that you make at least two
copies of your important documents, including your credit cards and passport.
Keep one with you at all times and deposit the other in a safe place or leave it
with a friend or family member or the hotel's safe. Have them handy and with you
at all times. Never lose sight of your passport if you can help it and in case
it is stolen, report it immediately as was stated earlier to avoid any
difficulty, affecting your return home etc.
38. Budget for passport and visa costs. If you are planning a trip
that requires a passport and or visa, check its expiration date. Be sure the
passport is valid for the entire trip and that you have all the necessary
entry-requirement documentation for your destination. There is lots of
information on the web on what you need where. Check with embassies and foreign
offices in your own country and overseas to get the most accurate information.
Verify this with a travel professional or travel agent prior to booking and
departure. Remember to include this as a category on your budget worksheet.
39. Plan and budget for the un-expected and incidentals. Whether it is
as simple as a practical collapsible type umbrella and poncho or a buffer-fund
for in case there is a delay, extended stay or other factors where you will
incur additional cost. Weather for example, is unpredictable and can ruin a
travel experience if you let it. Again, the key to saving money, avoiding
expense, caring for details and being a smart traveller will be organization,
planning and fiscal preparedness and resourceful fiscal discipline.
40. Maximize the packing space you have in your luggage. While packing
and making your checklist, put small items such as spare glasses, dress
accessories, socks and other small items inside your shoes. Shoes are usually
rigid and can protect items that might otherwise be broken. You will need every
inch of your suitcases upon your return to avoid the battle of the 'bulging'
suitcase that will not close until you go sit on it and struggle with the clasp
until it finally closes!
41. Confirm the checkout time to avoid being billed for late checkout.
Most hotels post a departure time when guests must vacate their rooms and
advising the front desk immediately if there is a problem with this is prudent.
Late checkouts are often permitted if approved by the hotel management in
advance. Another way to ensure you get what you paid for is, when you are
booking and or checking into a hotel, to request approval for late
arrival/departure just as a precaution.
42. Save money on traveler's checks: Avoid paying a hefty or any
service fee to purchase your travelers' checks. Some automobile clubs and banks
offer them free to members and preferred customers. It is definitely worth your
while and travel budget to check this out, before obtaining your checks.
43. Minor emergency tools and practical items in a handy spot in your
luggage can prove to be a life and money-saver. A quick stop into the dollar
store or local retailer before you leave home for a do-it-yourself kit that
contains various small items like rubber bands, small tube of instant glue,
paper clips, masking tape, Velcro, tissue-paper, sewing kit et al. could save
you embarrassment, time and money! It is wise to toss something like this into
your luggage. They take up limited space (will even fit in a shoe, as mentioned
earlier), and can come in handy in solving minor emergencies.
44. Sometimes a travel agent, or travel consultant, will charge a booking
and administration fee to handle your trip and reservation. This leads to
the misconception that they are always expensive and overpriced, always costing
more and higher priced. This simply is not the case.
Sometimes the opposite can be true. They are indeed also able to provide you
with considerable information regarding special offers, limited time package
deals and seat sales, as well as significantly reduced and special rates. They
also offer advice and information about destination travel, travel advisories,
entry requirements and travel documentation needs and costs. Upon request, they
will also spend the time to find you the cheapest and discounted options in the
marketplace. This is worthwhile considering if you want to maximize your travel
dollar and have a dream destination or exotic vacation to remember.
45. Another word to the wise when packing your luggage: All things
fluid and liquids in plastic bottles or containers should be placed in sealable
plastic bags that will not leak. It is always wise to place the bottle into a
well-sealed plastic bag as well. Wrapping a bottle in a towel or clothing will
not protect it or keep it from leaking and staining your clothes. The damage
could be permanent and lead to unnecessary cost for laundry services and or
replacement for clothes you really did not need or want.
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