5 Mistakes that even the savvy traveller can make
Think you are a savvy traveller? When it comes to travelling it is very easy to go a little overboard. Especially when it comes
to packing and budgeting your money. So often travellers end up spending too much money on things that they don't need to. Here are a
few tips for your next trip.
1) OVERPACKING
The best way to save space in your suitcase, is to make sure that everything you pack matches. That way everything will go with everything.
If you are flying low cost you will have tight baggage restrictions to keep in mind.
Over 1kg, will cost extra. If you show up with one too many bags, then you may be asking for another hefty fine.
Bringing a collapsable laundry bag can help you keep your dirty laundry organized during your trip as well. Keep your essentials in your carry on.
2) EXCHANGE RATES
If you don't know much about currencies or exchange rates, take a little lesson before you leave home. If you are on a tight
budget, it's best to avoid cities like London and Paris. Do your research, ask other travellers how much money they spent per day in the
destinations you are hoping to visit. If you want to travel further on less, stick to south east Asian countries or central eastern Europe.
As for changing your currencies, remember that airport exchange offices hardly ever offer the best rates.
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3) WEATHER
Forgot to check the weather before you left? Always check out the average temperatures for that time of the year and
how likely it is to rain, etc. A good rule of thumb is to bring a small foldable umbrella with you and a rain proof jacket. Even in Paris in
June it can rain plenty. Spring is ruthless in Western Europe. On the flip side, it's easy enough to pack too many pieces of warm
clothing and not wear a single one. Try packing clothes that can have multiple uses. In some warm countries, the evenings can
turn chilly so you will want some long sleeve shirts as well.
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4) HIGH SEASON
High Season is Mid December thru Easter plus June thru Labor Day plus Thanksgiving week. All the rest is considered "shoulder" or off peak.
The absolute busiest is mid December to Jan 3rd for the holidays and you can expect sell-out conditions for rental cars and accommodations.
Everyone travels during the peak season, that is why they are called peak seasons. Not only are flight, hotel and tourist related prices jacked up
for the summer months as well as Christmas and other holidays, but the places are also very crowded. Save some cash by travelling just after peak time.
September and October for Europe, avoiding Christmas at all costs. Spring break and Thanksgiving weekends are expensive times to travel in Canada
and the USA. Pack some healthy snacks on the go incase your flight is delayed or you get stranded someplace for any length of time.
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5) TIPPING
Every country differs on tipping culture. It is good to read up on it before you reach the restaurant on your first night. You may be in the habit of
tipping from home, but in some countries it is not necessary. You could be throwing away money when you don't need to. In Mexico, for example, you should
tip 10% while in Fiji no tip is necessary. In the UK and London you should show your bartender appreciation by offering to buy him one round, rather than
tipping for every drink.
A little goes a long way. It is best to do your research before you travel so you can avoid having to buy warmer clothing, pay luggage fees, etc.
while on vacation. That way, you can travel more for less. Just be savvy about it!