Unlock the Secrets to Saving on Your Travels

Get the Best Deal on Local Currency

When it comes to handling currency during travel, it's often more cost-effective to withdraw local cash from ATMs rather than converting money before the trip. By using a debit card from a bank that doesn't charge international transaction fees and honors market-based exchange rates, one can save a substantial amount. For instance, Charles Schwab has been a reliable choice for Lola. Additionally, when withdrawing cash from ATMs associated with a bank, it feels more secure, especially in random parts of a city. Rejecting the bank's money conversion and relying on the market conversion rate ensures a better deal. If you plan to use a credit card abroad, make sure it's with a provider like Capital One that doesn't charge international transaction fees.

Imagine traveling to a foreign country and having the freedom to access local currency at the best possible rate. This simple tip can make a significant difference in your travel budget and allow you to enjoy more of the local experiences without worrying about excessive currency conversion fees.

Seek out Free Activities

Global destinations are filled with a plethora of free activities that are often overlooked by tourists. Checking local publications is a great way to discover what free events are happening during your visit. Libraries may offer movie screenings, museums often have free admission days, and accommodations might come with complimentary yoga or dance classes. Sites like GuruWalk and SANDEMANs provide free local walking tours around the world. Lola has had wonderful experiences on GuruWalk tours in places like Turkey, Tunisia, Jordan, Egypt, Estonia, and Uruguay. While these tours are free, it's important to remember to tip your guide as a sign of appreciation.

By taking advantage of these free activities, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and have unique experiences without breaking the bank. It's a great way to make the most of your travel destination and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Be a Carry-on-only Traveler

Travelling with only a carry-on can save you a considerable amount of money. Paying for checked bags can quickly add up, especially when visiting multiple destinations. With just a carry-on, you can limit your spending by having less space to pack souvenirs. Gahsoon/Getty Images showcases the convenience and savings of being a carry-on-only traveler. It's a discipline that has saved Lola a lot of money over the years. However, it's essential to check the size restrictions and weight limits for carry-on bags. Some budget airlines may only allow about 15 pounds, but you can sometimes pay a minimal fee to double the weight limit. If you can't manage with just a carry-on, look for airlines that allow you to check your first bag for free.

Embracing the carry-on-only travel style not only saves money but also makes the travel experience more streamlined and hassle-free. You can move quickly through airports and avoid the stress and expense of dealing with checked bags.

Take Advantage of Tax Rebates for Foreigners

Many countries offer travelers a tax rebate for select purchases made with a foreign credit card. In Thailand, for example, certain purchases over 2,000 baht are eligible for a tax rebate. By finding out the limit in your destination and looking into requesting a Global Blue tax refund, you can get some extra money back. It's important to note that some countries may require you to show purchased goods to an agent at the local airport. This is an opportunity to make your travel purchases more cost-effective and get a little extra cash in your pocket.

Utilizing tax rebates can add an extra dimension to your travel budget and make your shopping experiences more rewarding. It's a little-known benefit that can make a significant difference in your overall travel expenses.