How To Be A Tight Ass While Travelling To Stretch Your Money

Attempting to stick to a budget while on holidays yet still wanting to have a great time without stressing about money? There are ways you can skimp on certain things to stretch your money.

1. Don’t buy gifts for family and friends. It takes up room and adds weight to your bag. Who wants that? Not me. I send a personalized postcard using the Touch Note app instead. No one has questioned me yet, and if they do… well, they are just rude!

2. Pack light so you do not have to pay excess baggage fees. Know your baggage allowance and weigh your bag before you leave. If you do happen to go over, leave the line, go to the bathroom and layer up. I’ve done it before. Tie a pair of shoes to the outside of your carry on. Chuck your full-size toiletries. Shame on you for bringing them anyway. Buy smaller ones when you get there. They will still let you on with three jumpers on, and one around your shoulders, another around your waist and they don't know how many pairs of pants or socks you have on. Well maybe….

3. Buy a SIM card when you land at the airport. To use roaming on your home phone plan costs a fortune. Seriously you will survive without the internet. It has been proven. Use free Wi-Fi at your hotel or a cafe when you get the chance. You will save a mint.

4. Get your money out at the ATM at the airport when you arrive. Exchanging money in Australia is not a great exchange move. Search online for the best card for you. I use the Citibank Debit card which has no ATM fees or conversion fees.

5. Look out for ‘happy hour’ and lunch and weeknight dinner specials when eating out. Some hotels will offer you breakfast at a cost, but I am sure you could find a cute cafe nearby offering breakfast for half the price. If you are travelling in a country that recommends sticking to bottled water, then buy the big 5L and each day pour it into your 600ml drink bottle. Buying in bulk always saves you money. Every little bit counts.

So, there you go, just a few tight ass tips for travelling that will save your pennies. I am sure there is at least one thing you do on holidays that stretches your money further. Feel free to comment below…