These top 14 travel tips will help you cut costs on your upcoming vacation!
1. Download Google Maps offline
You should be aware that you may go off the grid and still use Google Maps, so having no access to WiFi, a spotty network, or wasting money on data shouldn't be an excuse for being lost! You may now use Google Maps even in airplane mode if you simply download it, navigate to the location on the map that you want to save, put "ok map" into the search field, and then tap "download."
2. Email yourself a scan of your passport
Carrying a hard copy of your passport is important, but forgetfulness, theft, and loss can happen at any time. By emailing yourself a scan of your passport, you ensure that your passport is only a click away in the event of an emergency. This also applies to any other type of journey confirmation (tickets, etc.); scan or screenshot the same to save yourself a lot of trouble in the future.
3. Carry an extension cable with you, especially if you're staying in a hostel
Throughout your journey, your electronic devices will be your best friends, and they must be cared for, which means constant charging. As a result, one of the most important travel hacks is to make sure you have an extension cable or a power strip for the same, especially if you're staying in a hostel where everyone fights for plug time. Without a doubt, an extension cable will make you the center of attention in the room!
4. Put your rechargeable batteries in the fridge
Running out of charge on your rechargeable batteries sooner than expected can be a real pain. Well, there is a pretty cool travel hack that will help keep your batteries fresher and more charged for longer - simply store them in the fridge! Even though it may seem strange, most rechargeable batteries retain 90 percent of their full charge when stored in cold temperatures.
5. Plan ahead of time for flight cancellations
Booking a nonrefundable ticket is a risk, but there is a flipside. If your plans change or you do not travel on that flight, keep this pro tip in mind: do not cancel the ticket or simply fail to show up. Do this because, in the unlikely event that the flight is canceled or rescheduled, you may be eligible for a credit or refund. You would not have been entitled to anything if you had canceled the ticket.
6. To help with language barriers, download the Google Translate app
The app can take photos of text in another language and translate the words in real time.
7.Choose hotels that provide complimentary meals
This is a no-brainer travel hack. It can help you save a lot of money. Complimentary breakfast is a common hotel perk, but call ahead to ensure you have at least one meal covered. Some hotels do provide free meals for more than one meal, so look into it!
8. Roll your clothes to make more room
Packing smartly does not require much effort. Rolling your clothes rather than folding them is one of the simplest and most effective travel hacks. This method not only saves you a lot of space, but it also keeps your clothes wrinkle-free. Plus, the small rolled tubes allow you to easily see what you've packed.
9. Book through websites that provide cashback
Book through websites such as Headout, Book It, or Make My Trip to find all-inclusive packages to destinations all over the world or to receive exclusive cashbacks. There are many websites like this; make sure to check the one that is best suited to you before booking anything because you never know what deals you will find!
10. Before traveling abroad, notify your credit card company so that your account is not frozen due to suspicious activity
In addition to informing your friends, family, and employers about your trip, contact your credit card company. It is critical that you notify them of your departure date, destination, and expected return time. This ensures that your cards are not frozen due to suspicious activity while you are traveling.
11. At the airport, NEVER exchange money for local currency
When ATMs and cash machines are available, there is no need to exchange money at the airport or the local currency exchange. Not only do these money changers charge a fee, but they also rip off exchange rates, which are usually highly inflated, making them worse than your regular bank.
12. Call the hotel for a lower rate and avoid paying online taxes
Don't waste time looking through a million websites or dialing multiple reservation numbers. Simply call the hotel instead; not only will they offer you a lower rate free of online taxes, but they also have the authority to upgrade you! If you are a frequent traveler, it is best to maintain friendly relationships with hotel staff in order to increase your perks.
13. To save money on lodging, book overnight flights and buses.
The best way to kill two birds with one stone: you get to sleep for free while traveling to your destination! Booking an overnight flight or bus is essentially free lodging. Make yourself at ease by wearing a cozy sweatshirt, good earplugs, and an eye mask.
14. Buy travel insurance.
Most people don't buy travel insurance because their credit card benefits cover most of it, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. This is especially important if you frequently travel with valuables or change your plans on the fly.
