With the strength of the Canadian dollar, traveling outside of Canada has become much more attractive and affordable. Whether traveling abroad or taking a long-weekend south of the border, it's a great time for those vacationing on a tight budget! But without a proper plan, even the most careful travelers can incur unnecessary expenses.
Here are some tips from Sears Travel to help enjoy your summer getaway, without breaking the bank:
• Set a budget – Establishing the cost of your trip in advance can help save money and ensure you don't end up in debt. Make sure to include all your transportation costs (including flights, car rental, taxis, gas, etc.), book your hotels ahead of time, and set aside a generous amount for meals and attractions. And don't forget to budget for souvenirs!
• Get travel/health insurance –With the average cost of a medical incident outside of Canada at $25,000, it's important that you take out travel and health insurance before heading abroad.
• Purchase a roaming package – Once you leave Canada and use your mobile phone or tablet, you're accessing services through a foreign network, which can reach hundreds of dollars in additional charges. If you're planning to stay in touch with family and friends during your vacation, contact your network provider about a roaming package.
• Choose a credit card that suits your needs – Many credit cards offer a better rate than currency exchange offices, but find out if yours has a foreign currency transaction charge; typically 2.5% on each purchase. Use a card that doesn't charge the fee, such as the Sears Financial MasterCard, available at any Sears store.
