Travel is all about making memories — but that doesn’t mean you should throw money away on avoidable fees. Whether you’re planning a bucket-list trip or just hopping across borders for a quick getaway, here are 6 simple ways to keep your costs low and your money safe while traveling abroad:
Stop Dreaming. Start Planning!
Download the Complete Trip Planning Guide
1. Watch those transaction fees
Using your debit or credit card overseas? You could be hit with 1–3% in foreign transaction fees plus ATM charges. That adds up fast if you’re swiping or withdrawing often. Before you go, check what your bank and credit cards charge. Even better — use cards that have no foreign fees like the Capital One Venture card.
2. Get the best exchange rate (skip the airport kiosks)
Currency exchange counters at airports are convenient — and usually a rip-off. For better rates, use ATMs at your destination (with a low-fee card), or exchange money at your local bank before you leave. Some hotels even offer decent rates, so don’t be afraid to ask.
ProTip: When you’re at the ATM, make sure to use the local currencies exchange rate.
3. Always pay in local currency
If you’re offered the option to pay in U.S. dollars instead of the local currency — say no. This “dynamic currency conversion” usually comes with a bad exchange rate and hidden fees. Stick with the local currency for better value.
4. Use your card perks
The Capital One Venture card comes with many underrated travel benefits, which is why it’s one of my favorites— from hotel discounts to free travel insurance and even trip protection and Global Entry reimbursement. It’s worth checking what’s already included before you book anything.
5. Use local SIM cards or eSIMs to save on data
Roaming charges can quietly drain your wallet. Instead, grab a local Airalo E-SIM card or download an eSIM before you land — you’ll get cheaper data and a local number if needed. Apps like Airalo or Holafly make it easy to stay connected without the crazy international fees.
6. Protect your info like a pro
Take photos of everything in your wallet (front and back), plus your passport and travel documents. Store them in the cloud so you can access them if anything gets lost or stolen. Not only will thise save you money, but it will save you time, as well as a big headache!
Set up fraud alerts, let your bank know you’re traveling, and double-check your phone plan to avoid surprise roaming fees.
✈️ A little planning goes a long way. Keep your money in your pocket — and spend it on something unforgettable instead.
Drop your go-to travel money hacks below — always looking for new ways to save!
In conclusion
Points & miles can add up fast before your next trip and I want you to make sure you’re maximize your rewards! But, don’t open another credit card if you cannot pay off the bill each month and on time. This will actually hurt your chances of saving money and put you in debt!
I use a small army of major credit cards to book my flights, accommodations and rental cars with rewards and miles.
These cards below offer me the most value, but your situation may be different. https://navigatornick.com/travel-credit-cards/
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission to keep this website going (at no extra cost to you) so its a win-win!
Book Your Trip Now!
Below are my favorite companies I use time and time again when I book my travel.
- Travel Coupons & Discounts – Get Cash Back at places like Hotels.com, Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline and many more with Rakuten. Sign up today & get $30!
- My Favorite Travel Credit Card – Chase Sapphire Prefered. This is by far the best way to book travel and earn miles/points while doing so. Use the Chase Sapphire Prefered for booking 3x travel, 3x dining and 3x on streaming services.
- My Second Favorite Travel Credit Card – In my opinion, the second best travel rewards credit card, the Capital One Venture. Use the Capital One Venture card for 2x the rewards on everyday purchases.
- Rental Cars – Search, compare and save on the best rental car company brands all in one place using DiscoverCars.
- Booking.com – Booking has the widest selection of budget accommodation in the world. In our studies, they constantly found the cheapest rooms. I also like their easy-to-use interface and no-money-down policy.
- Hotels.com – Hotels.com is my second choice for finding hotels. I love their selection and easy to navigate website. Use it often for free hotel stays with OneKeyCash.
- VRBO – The most popular vacation rental site in the US. ✓+2 million rentals worldwide ✓19+ million reviews ✓Secure online payment
- Selina Hostel – This is the best hostel accommodation in the world. Their unique CoLive stays, artwork and location are the best. Not to mention, they are a great value travel brand!
For companies, check out my favorite travel companies section that includes even more of my favorite travel companies that will help you value travel!
Previous Post
Next Post
