the dollar claws its way back against the Greenback, Aussie travellers will continue their love affair with North America helped in part by discount fare pricing by airlines at the moment, says Wotif travel specialist Kim Stockham.
Last year 9.2 million of us made short term international trips. New Zealand was the most popular country followed by Indonesia, the US and the UK. While we are most familiar with how the dollar compares with the $US, rates vary from country to country.
can beat the value for money in short haul destinations in particular . Bali and Thailand, Stockham says.
But before you reach for your credit card, it never too late to set out a savings plan, says AMP financial adviser Darren James.
a specific account that you can start saving from as far out as you can, he says. the money away so you aren tapping into it.
Escape Travel Australia general manager Darren Lloyd says flights and hotel bookings will hit the budget hardest, Replica Hermes Handbags
but there easy things you can do to save. can save anywhere from $100 to $500. All you have to do is book your flights and a tour together as a package, or book four nights accommodation and you be eligible for a package deal. also says 12 month interest free deals are available, but hefty interest rates apply if the fares aren paid in full over this period.
It a good idea to buy some foreign currency now and then a bit more before you leave, says the Currency Shop director Justin Rampono. He urges travellers to compare exchange rates online and to ask for a better deal before making any purchases.
Some foreign exchange services, including Travel Money Oz and American Express, offer an exchange rate price guarantee.
Also check what fees and charges apply to any cards you plan to use: prepaid travel cards can be more cost effective than using existing bank cards.
Experts say if you can afford travel insurance you can afford to travel. Lloyd says it essential you have insurance and even book it well before you leave in case something goes wrong. Sometimes it is included with your credit card.
