We’ve been traveling abroad for years on a budget and have learned a few things along the way. Here are a few international money-saving travel hacks for you to use on your next vacation abroad.
Use private/incognito browsing mode when shopping for flights.
This single tip can save you a substantial amount of money. By changing your browsing mode, you are generally able to shield your location. This is helpful because booking flights from the U.S. is often more expensive than from other locations around the globe.
If you’ve visiting a new country consider a tour.
While booking a tour may sound more expensive, it can actually save you money, especially if you’ve never visited the location before. When visiting a new city, things are unfamiliar and it is often difficult to decide which attractions to visit and to know if you are paying a fair price to do so. Tours can offer a sense of security as well as discounted rates on many attractions.
Check for any extra fees that may be charged when booking a hotel.
Extra fees at hotels are common, even when traveling abroad. However, fees in most other countries are often less than the taxes, resort, and parking fees that many hotels and resorts in the U.S. charge. For instance, in Italy there is a nightly fee per person charge per room. This fee usually ranges between $4 – $7 per person per night. And, don’t be surprised if you are asked to pay the fee in cash. This is a very common practice.
Check with your employer for corporate codes.
Many U.S. based hotel chains have locations abroad. Be sure to check and see if your employer’s corporate codes are applicable in the country you’re visiting.
Look for discounts at attractions in your destination.
Teachers! Check to see if an attraction offers free or discounted admission for educators.
This same idea applies for students.
Always be careful when searching for any type of travel discount. One great way to save money on local attractions at your destination is to see if a city card is available. These cards are legitimate and offer discounts for many of the major museums and other tourist attractions.
In Rome, many museums have a free admission day each month. Check the websites of places you plan to visit to see if there may be something similar while you are visiting.
Pack light to save checked bag fees.
Not only does it save you time to pack light (Have you ever stood at baggage claim in a crowded airport?), but it can save you quite a bit of money. Checking a bag is expensive! Pack in a carry-on and a personal bag and save a bundle.
Remember all of those points you’ve earned with your credit card? Use them!
All of those credit card points you’ve accumulated are valuable! Use them to book your flight or pay for your hotel. If you don’t have a travel card, consider getting one. Charge your daily expenses and pay them off immediately. You will quickly begin racking up travel points, resulting in vacation savings.
Travel insurance.
Travel insurance may cost a little extra up front, but it can save your entire trip. Trust us, we are speaking from experience. Many times, travel insurance is sold through third party vendors. Do your research and make sure the policy fits your needs. Also, check with your credit card company to see if they offer travel insurance. Many credit card companies offer some sort of basic travel insurance when you use your card to book your vacation.
Want more tips for saving money when traveling abroad? Check out our YouTube video here.
If you will be traveling domestically for your nest vacation take a look at our post How to Save Money When Traveling Domestically.
And remember, break the monotony, not the bank.
–Marnie and Jeff
