Given the turbulent economic times, you are probably thinking that scaling back your expenses and skipping your next vacation are good ideas. Here you will find some great ideas for traveling on a budget.

Use a price watcher. This feature is offered by some websites and lets you input your desired destinations for it to watch. When the price for airfare or lodging meets your expectations, you’re going to get an alert. You will not have to worry about checking the rates daily.

If you have to drive a distance to the port to get on a cruise,drive there the night before and stay at a hotel that has free parking. You can check with staff at the hotel for unpublished parking deals.

Throw a few clothespins into your suitcase. Clothespins are not a typical travel item for many people, but should be reconsidered given their usefulness and versatility.

Exercise before you get on the airplane. Multi-hour flights can take a lot out of you. Remaining in a stationary position can cause stiff muscles and cramps. Stretching or working out before taking a flight can help reduce soreness.

Keep close track of your belongings while traveling, especially important things like money and identification. Keep your purse tucked under your arm. Avoid choosing a bag that is easy to open, as they will be easier for a thief to open and steal your valuables. Consider these things when you are picking out your bag.

Traveling away from home can often result in you carrying along too many belongings. Rather than overpacking, it is important that you only bring along the essentials. Make a list containing what you need and use through the day. Pack your items based on importance and necessity.

You should know the tipping conventions for the bellboys and housekeepers. A good rule of thumb is $1 per bag/luggage and about $2-5 a day for housekeeping. You will have a better relationship with them when you are staying at the hotel.

For traveler’s checks, convert them to cash before shopping or dining. Some places may accept these check, but they’re hard to work with. Rather than using these, get local currency to spend.

If you can be forgetful when traveling, consider writing yourself some reminder notes. You can also write on the mirror using a dry-erase marker because it’s hard to overlook. These markers can be easily erased with a piece of toilet paper, so it is an ideal solution.

Rental Car

If you are planning a trip that involves getting a rental car, be sure to review your vehicle insurance policy before you leave home. Rental car staff is trained to sell additional insurance, and you might not need it. In many cases, insurance policies on vehicles also include basic coverage in the case of a third party liability. Consult your insurance agent about what your policy does and does not cover before you leave.

Dream vacations can turn into a nightmare without planning. Check the Internet review sites to see what people have experienced at locations you are planning to visit. Reading about their experiences will help you make the best choices and avoid the worst places.

Nothing is worse than experiencing travel plans that have issues. The right car might be unavailable or your flight could be delayed. In cases such as these, you and the agent you speak with are the only people who can solve the problem. It can be easy to lose your temper. Try to be polite and stay calm throughout. You can get things done this way so that your trip is less stressful.

If you want to travel to a different country, make some cards about your food allergies in the language of the country you’re going to. This will give your server a good idea of what you are able to eat. When you have cards, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy yourself while dining out.

Foreign Currency

Avoid waiting until you arrive to obtain local currency. There is an easier way to obtain your foreign currency. The best way is to use an ATM at a bank to get your foreign currency. An ATM’s exchange rate is usually much better, and it is usually a lot less expensive than using an exchange to get your currency.

When you travel, bring along a pillow and blanket. No matter how you are traveling, a pillow and blanket will make the trip much more comfortable. Airlines usually provide them, but they can run out. If you bring your own, you know that it’s clean, too.

Tip generously when you are on a cruise. Give the steward a nice tip when you first board the ship. Make a good first impression and you will receive superior service during the trip.

When traveling, it is important that there are copies of any important documents you may have. Passports, insurance, and confirmation numbers will all need to be kept in at least two places while you travel in order to ensure you always have a copy available. Leaving another set with a trusted friend or family member is a good suggestion in case your primary and backups are lost or misplaced.

Try not to be too regimented when it comes to time when traveling by car, particularly in terms of bathroom breaks. Your trip won’t be ruined if you have to pull over for ten minutes. This can prevent whiny or grumpy travelers on your trip.

As was discussed in this article, due to the poor economy you might be wanting to put off going on vacation this year. If you use the advice contained in this article, you will have no problem getting that next vacation set up.