Money Saving Travel Tips for August 28th

by Mary Jo Manzanares on August 28th, 2006

Here are this week’s money saving travel tips:

If you’ll be renting a car for more than two days, but less than a week, you should still compare the daily rate vs. the weekly rate. Sometimes you’ll find a cheaper weekly rate, and you can just return the car early at no additional charge.
It’s very easy to go a little crazy with vacation shopping. Set your shopping budget before leaving home, and stick to it. This is particularly importation if your destination is known for a special item that you will want to purchase (perhaps emeralds in Columbia, leather goods in Italy). Do the research before you leave home, set aside a dollar amount that you are comfortable with, and do your best to keep from being swayed to spend more than that.
For souvenir shopping, remember that you not only have the expense of the purchase, but you’re going to have to pack it and carry it home. If you must buy gifts for others, keep them small and inexpensive. Consider postcards or other small stationery item (gift card, tag, etc.) with a lovely photo of the destination. You can always find an inexpensive frame for the item when you return home. The important thing is not to let your budget for these items escalate to an unmanageable and ridiculous level.

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