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Travel Budget – 6 Things You Are Wasting Your Money On

Travel Budget - 6 Things You Are Wasting Your Money On

Not everyone has Britney Spears’ cash flow and can make it rain in St. Tropez on a whim. Your average Joe who doesn’t have sweet cash flow from ‘Hit Me Baby One More Time’ royalty checks, has a travel budget and might be wasting money on these travel budget busters.

Hotels

If you are staying at a chain hotel and using a third-party travel site to book – you’re wasting money. Not only are getting mediocre rates, you’re most likely getting a mediocre room. It’s no secret that hotels can see how you book and prefer to reward loyal members over a guest who is there because a site convinced them they were getting a “discounted” rate. Try sites like Airbnb for rates on homes that will easily rival hotel amenities and space while saving you money on rates and add-ons like resort fees.

Related: Hotel Secrets, Confessions, and How to Score to Freebies

Insurance

Don’t go for that rental car insurance! Typically, your existing car insurance will cover you, even if you are renting a car. If your car insurance doesn’t, the credit card you used to book it through might. Check your policy or your credit card company to see if you’re already covered before being tempted to spend the extra money on the rental car company’s coverage.

Food

More often than not, people who aren’t familiar with an area or fear exploring new foods end up at a tourist trap restaurant. They usually offer overpriced meals thanks to their Americanized menus that don’t utilize local produce or meat. Street vendors, food trucks, and smaller family-owned restaurants will save you money and give a true taste of the culture.

Water

Thanks to TSA rules, you can’t pack your own water bottle. Anything containing more than 3.4 ounces of liquid is unceremoniously tossed out. BUT, you can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at a drinking fountain once you pass through security. Also, restaurants will give you a free cup of water if you ask nicely. That goes beyond the airport. Instead of shelling out for unhealthy and sickeningly-sweet soda, ask any food stand or restaurant for nice glass of ice water. Of course, this doesn’t apply when you are traveling to places with questionable water sources.

Museums and Attractions

Just about every museum offers a freebie day. Check local calendars or the attraction’s website for details on when free or discounted days are coming up. Yelp, Time Out, and Gogobot are few sites to check out to help you on your journey to saving money on things to do. It might even save you from wasting time at place with bad reviews.

Reviews: 10 Hacks for Packing – Easy Travel Tips and Tricks

Wifi

If you’re still shelling out extra bucks for wifi, you’re a sucker. Use your mobile hotspot option or go across the street – literally anywhere – to score free wifi. Restaurants, coffee houses, and even stores all offer a free wifi connection.