T is for travel
Trip planning and money-saving tips and tricks
Travel
Planning and preparing for a trip
- Create a travel budget that includes expenses for transportation (train, bus, plane, etc.), accommodations, food, activities, etc.
- Research the region you're visiting.
- Plan to buy foreign currency and traveler's cheques.
- Buy travel insurance.
- Prepare your home for your absence.
Budget travel tips
Exchange rate- Monitor the exchange rate and buy foreign currency when the rate is in your favour.
- Avoid currency exchange offices with higher fees and rates than other locations (e.g., currency exchange offices in airports).
- Sleep in youth hostels or campsites.
- Shop at the grocery store and only eat out occasionally.
- Visit safe but non-touristy sites.
- Try to avoid guided tours.
Important facts
Travel comes in many shapes and sizes. You might travel for international internships offered through your school or employer. Or you could get a visa allowing you to work abroad.
You may need to order foreign currency from your financial institution a few days in advance.
Travel insurance plans are also an option. The premium is calculated based on the trip length, desired coverage and age and health condition of the traveler.
It's important to research the region you're visiting so you have all the essential information, like whether you need a visitor visa or certain vaccines, local customs you should be aware of, etc.