We all know that traveling abroad costs money and most of us, perhaps unrealistically, want a 5-star holiday on a backpacker budget. In actual fact, getting the most out of your travel budget to have those luxury extras in your trip doesn’t need to be so hard.

While many of us don’t have bottomless pockets, if you find yourself overspending abroad you’re not alone. Making the most of the benefits offered by your debit card can help you spend within your means. Also taking advantage of Visa’s online Travel Budgeting Calculator: www.mymoneyskills.me/english/gt/main.jsp# will keep you on track to stay within your budget.

Before you go
You’ve identified your next travel destination and budget so now you need to find the best deals — and where better than online? Researching information on tourist board websites and using them as a source of information before taking off will keep you in the loop on the best deals. the loop on the best deals.

When you’re shopping for the best deals online or in-store, debit cards are becoming increasingly accepted everywhere that you can use your credit card, so take advantage of this. By using a debit card you are drawing funds directly from your current account — you can buy now and pay now — so there is no need to worry about paying a bill later or incurring interest charges.

Another way to cut down on expenses is rethinking peak travel dates. Book several months in advance before the booking frenzy kicks off. Also think about traveling a month before or after peak season traffic.



While you’re there, go local
When you’re abroad, making the most of experiencing local culture and living like a local is not only a fantastic experience but will also help to keep a lid on expenses. Choose hotels that are easily accessible with public transportation and avoid cabs which can be more expensive. Try local restaurants while you are traveling. It will help you save money and get you sampling local cuisine. Try to avoid eating at obvious tourist traps as cuisine will always cost a premium and if you don’t have enough cash on hand, you can always use your debit card to withdraw from ATMs.

Staying in budget
Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, an option is full-service apartments as an alternative for extended visits. They cost less than staying in a hotel and often provide access to a kitchen. All-inclusive resorts are also another option that let you know the costs up front.

To get the most out of your trip abroad think specifically when you want to travel, where you want to visit and how much you need to budget for the trip. Whatever option you plan to take, remember that your debit card will allow you to withdraw from ATMs so you can feel safe in the knowledge that you don’t have to carry large sums of cash around with you.  bt