You are ready to use those travel dollars you earned when you joined Pro Travel Plus, and continue enjoying the discounts of being a member. Follow these ten tips to continue save even more on your first vacation.
1. Know your credit card. Some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees when used abroad, so make sure you call your credit card company prior to your trip so you’re familiar with its policies. In addition to this, it’s generally a good idea anyway to let your credit card company know that you’ll be leaving the country. A purchase made in a foreign country could flag your account, and they may freeze it for security purposes. Not a fun experience if you’re depending on your credit card for food, lodging and events abroad! All this can be avoided with just a phone call.
2. Double-check your phone plan. You may have unlimited data and minutes now, but it can be completely different when you are out of the country. If you’re not aware of how your rates may vary internationally, you may end up paying a fortune on calls. Make sure you know what your plan includes and find out how much it would cost to change to an international plan.
3. Understand the currency exchange. One common way people end up spending more than their budget aborad is when they don’t even know what they’re spending. There are several free currency calculator apps that you can download to your phone so you can figure out transactions as you travel. Make sure you understand how currency exchanges to the country you’re visiting.
4. Find out if travel insurance is right for you. Traveling to another country can be unpredictable, especially if you’ve never been there .Check to see what your current health insurance covers abroad. You may not be covered in another country or you may need to have coverage that could fly you home if necessary. Another thing you should be aware of is the cancellation policy on your flights, transportation, or any lodging you’ve booked. Your travel insurance may also be able to cover any unexpected cancellation fees.
5. Research local prices and be prepared. Take the time to go on message boards or do a Google search to get a feel for how things work over there. Even cities that are frequently visited by tourists are still very different than your own. Seemingly insignificant details that you wouldn’t have foreseen may end up costing you more than necessary. In some countries, for example, it’s considered rude to tip waiters for their service.
6. Plan before you go. As with any project you embark on, make a flexible game plan before you do it. Create a budget, but keep in mind that prices vary greatly between countries. Research the average cost of transportation, lodging, food, drink, and entertainment. You could obtain this information by visiting the city and country’s official travel website, travel blogs, and asking fellow travellers for advice on message boards. For example, in Venezuela a Big Mac can cost you $9.08; a movie ticket in South Africa costs $5, while the same thing can cost $18 in Tokyo.
7. Learn key phrases in the native language. When in Rome, speak as the Romans do. Being able to communicate is essential not only for a safe and fun trip, but it can also save you money. Make sure you know how to ask for prices and understand directions to avoid wasteful spending.
8. Eat and shop like the locals. No matter where you are traveling, tourist-filled areas are usually more expensive. Opt for a more economical and genuine experience by shopping and eating like a local. They know the best deals in their town and you can learn from them how to get more bang for your buck. Simply ask around and do a bit of research before you head out.
9. Find free things to do. Do research ahead of time to find out where the free events are. Sightseeing, monuments, parks, libraries, free events and concerts, and nature trails are just a handful of free and valuable things to explore.
10. Pack light. Be sure you’re aware of the weight limit for your luggage on the flight. You can get charged extra if you pack too heavy.














