Top 3 Value Traveling Tips

Top 3 Value Traveling Tips

1. Avoid fees by being prepared. Who likes to pay an extra 3-8% on your purchase?
  • Get a no foreign transaction fee credit card. There are a handful out there, so definitely read the fine print (NerdWallet can help you pick one out). I currently have an AMEX Platinum, which I love for lounge access + status.
  • Get a ATM fee-free and no foreign transaction fee checking account. I use Charles Schwab.
  • Charge everything you can when you travel (rewards!)...but always check to make sure that there isn't a credit card fee. I've seen fees from 3-10% and the merchant doesn't always tell you.
2. Use rebate sites to book your flights and hotels. You can get 3-10% back on hotels booked and $1.50-3 rebate per flight booked through sites like Orbitz, Expedia, and Hotels.com if you book through Ebates and Mr. Rebates. I use EVreward to check who has the best rebate, since it changes all the time.

3. Always ask for a discount by contacting the establishment directly. This often works for me, whether it's a boutique hotel, a tour, or an AirBnB. You can ask for a "last minute booking" discount, or a "off-peak season" discount, or a discount for booking for two people, or a "I really like XYZ but it's just outside of my budget" discount...just remember to be polite. 

Note: some of the links are referral links

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