Scraping together money for a trip is not an easy task. Here are a few of my travel philosophies and tips (I obviously need to improve on these):
- If you buy the plane ticket, you will somehow someway find the money for everything else.
- Don't waste your money on souvenirs. Take a few photos and enjoy the view.
- Publicly display your negative balance. This is a new one I am trying out...
- Do not buy a new wardrobe for your trip. One or two new items will suffice.
- Wait to exchange currency at your destination; the fees are usually more reasonable at a local bank or ATM. Exchanging cash at the airport is a rip off. Also call your bank (2x) and let them know where you plan to travel. A frozen bank account will ruin your day.
- Sign up for a travel rewards credit card and pay it off each month. I currently have the CapitalOne Venture and in a few short months I will have enough points for a weekend getaway (within driving distance).
- Learn how to use public transportation. My wallet currently contains an Oyster card (London), the Charlie card (Boston), the SmarTrip card (DC), and a MetroCard (NYC). They have saved me a ton on cab fare.
- Do not go through a travel agent.
- Be your own tour guide. Research in advance and skip the overpriced guided tours.
- Create a separate savings account for travel. Have money automatically deducted from each paycheck. Even a small amount each month will get you closer to booking your next adventure!
