Travel Finances

100. Financial and currency exchange information.

Always be informed, prudent and curious about foreign currency exchange, rates and related subjects that could affect your travel dollar and cash on hand.

There are numerous sources of this information handy to travelers. You can find out any of the current exchange rates in real-time, from the worldwide Web, stock exchange websites, your own bank, and or by contacting private currency exchange businesses like Thomas Cook and others, offering this financial service.

101. In addition to the small bills amount you carry with you, transport most of your monetary funds in something like guaranteed travelers checks.

These are freely available through most local banks. Keep denominations to low figures is mostly advised. If however, you are worried about transaction fees on smaller amounts, get a couple of larger denominations to be on the safe side.

As a precautionary security measure, to save money and avoid difficulty, delay and inconvenience, remember to keep a list of the numbers of the checks somewhere separate from the checks themselves in case they are lost or stolen. Guard ATM and credit cards and do not carry all your money in one place!

102. ‘Cash’ only when you need to!

Only cash traveler’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.

103. 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.

104. Another money strategy includes having a personal check or two with you.

They are not accepted any and everywhere, BUT where they are, they are cheaper than credit card transactions.

105. Giving tips are considered common courtesy and customary most places in the world.

BUT as an expenditure category, it can add up quickly and substantially! If ever in doubt whether it is appropriate to give a tip, ASK! Ensure you set aside enough of an incidental budget to cover these and other daily expenditures covering the duration of your trip.