Travel lighter with these hot tips

It’s great to be back out and about again, isn’t it? But before you step beyond the confines of your state or national borders, it pays to do some homework.

Not only will a little planning save you a lot of money, it could also save you a few headaches at your destination. After all, holidays are supposed to be relaxing, not stressful.

From booking flights to avoiding sales tax, we have rounded up some travel tips to help you on your way.

Don’t get hung up on the destination

Yes, we all have a bucket list of places we want to visit, but don’t get invested in ticking them off in order. If you're after a deal, we advise searching for locations offering discounts at the time you want to travel.

It might seem a roundabout way of planning your trip, but it can save you a lot of money if you’re not tied to one destination. And who knows, it might introduce you to somewhere special you hadn’t even thought of!

Spread your wings

Don't assume budget airlines are the cheapest option. Do a Google search to see all the airlines that fly regularly to your destination. Compare the “extras” that come after the flight price. Once you include taxes, meals and baggage it can add up to a lot more than you planned. The difference between an all-inclusive airline and the budget option might be so minimal. So it’s worth paying for extra comfort and less hassle.

 

 

When determining flights, try searching for two "one-way" flights instead of a "return" - sometimes there's a significant price difference. And don’t get tied to one airline, either. If it’s way cheaper to fly to your destination with one airline and back home with another, just do it. Forget those frequent flyer points – your loyalty isn’t worth all those extra dollars.

Go the extra mile

If you plan to hire a car, make sure to ask about any extra costs. A seemingly great deal can lose its lustre if it doesn’t include the insurance to wipe out any excess (often more than $5000). Shop around for the best deal.

And while the rental company might offer a better price for fuel than what you pay at the bowser, if your tank isn’t close to empty you could end up getting stung. Most usually charge for a full tank, even if your vehicle is three-quarters full when you arrive back at the depot.

Eat well earlier

If you’re travelling on a budget, a little-known but easy way to get more bang for your buck is to change when you have your biggest meal of the day.

While we tend to dine at restaurants for dinner, in many countries the lunch menu is a much cheaper, but no less significant, option. Do a bit of research before you go. You might find that by filling up in the middle of the day you end up with spare dollars for a cocktail or two in the evening.

And when booking your accommodation, check whether the tariff includes breakfast. Though some hotel breakfasts aren’t worth paying extra for, if they are part of the package make the most of the morning fare.

Don't double dip on insurance

If you have a credit card, check what travel insurance the provider offers. Many credit card companies offer travel insurance to those who book their holiday with their credit card.

While the level of cover varies among credit companies, you might find there is no need to take out separate travel insurance. But don’t assume you’re automatically covered – check the terms and conditions and assess any risks.

Ditch the ATM fees

If travelling internationally, compare the cost of using ATMs at your destination with using an electronic travel wallet or travel card. These are prepaid currency cards that allow you to load your travel money at a fixed exchange rate onto the card, which can be used at ATMs or shops.

Cash Passport is one option, as is the Latitude 28º Global Platinum Mastercard. Many of the banks also offer travel cards. Just make sure you compare any fees and charges, both at the outset and ongoing, to ensure you get the best deal.

Keep your card holder in the loop

It’s embarrassing having your card declined, even more so in a country where you don’t speak the language. Make sure you let your credit card company know when you are travelling. So that they don’t see any purchases in other countries as a “suspicious” transaction and suspend your card. Much easier to make that call before you go than to try to sort it out from afar.

 

 

Make sure all your contact details are up to date with your credit provider before you go. And that the card's expiration date is still some time off – you don’t want it running out while you’re overseas.

Don’t pay sales tax (if you don’t have to)

Some countries offer a refund on all, or part of, the sales tax you pay on big-ticket items if you’re a visitor taking those purchases home.

These include Singapore, where you can get GST refunds on goods over $100, and the UK, where you can reclaim the VAT (sales tax) for items bought from a number of British retailers. Just look for the tax-free shopping sign.

In most cases, you will need to complete forms and show proof of purchase to get a refund. You can do this either at the airport or nominated refund agencies. Though some now offer online options to lodge your claims.

It is worth looking into this before you go. Especially if you plan on buying something expensive, as it can save you plenty - as much as 21 percent in Spain, for instance.

As always, if you encounter any issues while travelling, lodge a complaint with us and we’ll get you back on track in no time.

Let us help you handle it.