Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024
Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Skipping Credit Card Foreign Transaction Fee Research Costs Travelers $300 on Average
Overlooking the fine print on your credit card regarding foreign transaction fees can end up costing you an average of $300 during your trip. These fees, often a percentage of the transaction (typically 1% to 3%), are a sneaky addition that many travelers aren't aware of. It's a bit deceptive, too, as they can apply even if the merchant accepts US dollars.
To steer clear of this pitfall, it's wise to select a credit card specifically designed for international travel, as many of them won't hit you with these fees. It's all about keeping more of your hard-earned money available for those special travel moments. Before you jet off, make it a habit to carefully read your card agreement and understand the nuances of its foreign transaction fee policy. Doing your homework in advance will save you headaches (and a significant portion of your travel budget) later.
Failing to investigate credit card foreign transaction fees can easily cost travelers around $300 on average. It's surprising that a sizable number of individuals, perhaps as many as 75%, don't actively look for cards that do away with these costs.
Some credit card providers impose foreign transaction fees, usually a percentage between 1% and 3% of the purchase amount. This may not seem like much, but it can quickly add up, particularly for frequent international travelers. It is interesting to consider how this seemingly small percentage can impact budget-conscious trips.
The actual conversion rate from one currency to another varies depending on the provider, not just fees, impacting costs. This adds complexity to managing money abroad and requires some careful examination of the options when making purchases.
The common practice of Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), where you pay in your home currency at a foreign merchant, often comes with hidden costs. Choosing to pay in the local currency can often lead to significant savings. This is a bit of a conundrum as it may be more comfortable to stay in the familiar world of your home currency.
It's worth remembering that debit cards can also come with fees for international transactions. This can be a big surprise if you're not aware of it beforehand, but reading through the fine print before travel helps.
Some credit cards are linked to rewards programs. The decision of which card to use can either lead to a valuable stream of accumulated miles and points or squander the opportunity. This strategic link to credit cards and associated benefits requires careful consideration.
Many budget airlines offer affordable airfares, but charges for luggage and payment processing add up quickly and may erase much of the perceived savings. Budget travelers need to account for this additional cost component.
Some travel providers and financial institutions are now forming alliances and offering credit cards that eliminate transaction fees, demonstrating how collaboration can potentially provide a benefit to consumers. This seems like a relatively new development worth tracking.
There are many resources available online and via smartphone apps that educate about travel finances and can help users find cards without fees, potentially avoiding significant expenditure. The wide availability of these resources should help travelers save.
Using foreign ATMs can easily produce additional expenses that you may not foresee. Costs can run from around $5 to over $10 each time you use an ATM. It makes sense to research local networks that offer lower fees.
What else is in this post?
- Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Skipping Credit Card Foreign Transaction Fee Research Costs Travelers $300 on Average
- Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Last Minute Flight Changes Without Travel Insurance Lead to $500+ Penalties
- Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Not Tracking Exchange Rates Between Booking and Travel Dates Creates 15% Price Swings
- Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Booking Through Third Party Sites Without Reading Cancellation Policies Results in Lost Deposits
- Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Ignoring Airline Alliance Networks When Booking Multi City Trips Increases Costs by 40%
- Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Missing Out on Hotel Price Matching Guarantees Leaves Money on the Table
- Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Same Day Airport Currency Exchange Desks Charge 25% Premium Over Local Banks
Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Last Minute Flight Changes Without Travel Insurance Lead to $500+ Penalties
Making last-minute flight changes can quickly turn into a costly affair, with penalties often exceeding $500. This is especially true if you haven't secured travel insurance to cover unexpected events. While there are new rules in place for refunds on canceled or delayed flights, travelers need to be aware of their rights and act accordingly.
Consider purchasing travel insurance that allows cancellation "for any reason." This can be a lifesaver if you need to alter your travel plans suddenly. Also, pay close attention to the limitations of cheaper "basic economy" tickets, as these often have strict rules regarding changes or cancellations. Many airlines only allow changes or cancellations under certain very specific circumstances.
The holiday travel season can be particularly hectic, increasing the likelihood of needing to make last-minute flight adjustments. This can lead to significant stress and financial burdens if you're not prepared. By planning ahead and understanding the potential costs associated with late changes, you can minimize surprises and protect your travel budget. It's generally a good idea to avoid last-minute changes to minimize financial repercussions, unless there is no other option.
Last-minute flight adjustments, especially those made within a day of departure, can lead to hefty penalties that often surpass $500. This is a significant cost that many travelers aren't prepared for. It underscores how essential it is to solidify your travel plans well in advance, giving yourself a buffer to avoid these potential expenses.
The fees associated with altering flight plans are quite variable. While some budget airlines offer very little leeway, larger legacy airlines might have slightly more flexible options for changes, especially for their frequent flyers or those in certain fare classes. It's very important to understand a specific airline's policy on flight alterations before you book any trip.
If you are unable to take a flight, failing to inform the airline will typically result in the loss of your fare. More importantly, any associated future flights on that same ticket might also be automatically cancelled. This leads to unexpected travel snafus and can be a costly mistake.
It is essential to consider the concept of dynamic pricing when evaluating last-minute flight changes. Flight costs are continuously adjusted depending on demand and time remaining until departure. As a result, booking at the last minute not only might be more expensive, but you have less flexibility in making alterations as well.
Airline pricing structures can be quite complex, which may lead to confusion for some travelers. For example, adjusting a flight might involve both a change fee and the fare difference, leading to unexpected costs when these are added together.
The class of ticket booked can significantly influence the magnitude of change fees. Booking in a less expensive fare class frequently results in a steeper penalty. For this reason, it is wise to be careful when deciding on ticket classes and how these decisions influence any potential changes.
The majority of travelers, it appears, do not bother with travel insurance, a tool that might save a significant amount of money. If you're faced with needing to change a flight due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., illness), having travel insurance can often cover the associated penalties. It is not a common choice, yet its value in unexpected events is high.
A few airlines are starting to offer "flexible" fares. These tickets come with a higher initial cost, but they allow for unlimited flight changes. This approach is a marked departure from the traditional model of charging change fees, but it caters to travelers who appreciate the ability to modify their trips as needed.
The appeal of last-minute deals can be enticing. Yet, if you are at all unsure of your travel plans, these deals might be a mistake. You might end up with a higher overall cost when considering penalties associated with any alterations. As with most aspects of travel, booking early seems to be a wise strategy.
Frequent flier programs associated with specific airlines may allow travelers to change their plans for reduced or even no fees. These reward programs clearly benefit dedicated travellers. The rewards aspect for loyalty is an argument in favour of using one airline regularly.
Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Not Tracking Exchange Rates Between Booking and Travel Dates Creates 15% Price Swings
Failing to monitor exchange rates between when you book your trip and when you actually travel can result in price fluctuations as high as 15%. This can cause a significant change in the total cost of your trip, especially considering that many common payment methods incorporate hidden fees within their exchange rate markups. Since flight prices can change frequently, based on elements such as seat availability and passenger demand, it's essential to track how currency values are shifting before your trip. Furthermore, a lack of transparency in cross-border payments can lead to unexpected fees that can quickly impact your travel funds. By being mindful of exchange rates and potential fees, you can make smarter decisions when paying for your travel. It is something worth keeping an eye on and factoring into your planning.
Failing to monitor exchange rate fluctuations between booking and travel can result in price changes of up to 15% for your travel costs. This highlights the importance of being mindful of how currency exchange rates can impact your trip.
Many payment services apply hidden fees and profit margins on currency exchanges, so carefully examining their terms before completing any transaction is vital. It is not always evident what charges are applied, particularly when traveling internationally. This lack of transparency can be problematic.
Airfares are quite dynamic, frequently changing several times a day due to variables like available seats and customer demand. It can be difficult to follow the reasons for these changes.
While the day of the week you book a flight doesn't significantly affect the cost, the specific travel date does influence the price. This suggests that picking the right day for your travels can be financially significant.
External forces, including political circumstances and global economic situations, can cause major changes in flight prices as demand increases or decreases. It's quite remarkable how seemingly distant occurrences can impact your trip.
Often, the clarity of exchange rate information is missing in transactions crossing borders, which can introduce unforeseen costs during international travels. It is not easy to get a good sense of all the costs associated with foreign purchases, making it hard to anticipate expenses.
Booking the cheapest fare isn't always the best approach. Some "basic economy" fares come with restrictions that may lead to unexpected expenses. It is interesting that, in an effort to save money, you might inadvertently end up spending more in the end.
Some travelers have seen sudden price hikes during the booking procedure. This emphasizes the necessity of diligently following fare changes. It is surprising that some fares can increase so rapidly.
Setting up alerts on flight prices can help travellers make better purchase choices. Price changes are notified, and that allows travellers to react to them and optimize their purchasing decisions. It is an interesting development that such tools are available to assist travelers.
Errors when booking flights, such as inputting the wrong airport code, can create expensive mistakes and lead to missing flights. It highlights the importance of accuracy when booking a trip and how small mistakes can lead to major consequences. It is surprising that such basic errors happen with such frequency.
Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Booking Through Third Party Sites Without Reading Cancellation Policies Results in Lost Deposits
Booking flights or accommodations through third-party websites can be tempting due to the perceived convenience and potentially lower prices. However, many travelers overlook a crucial aspect: understanding the cancellation policies associated with these bookings. Failing to carefully read the fine print can result in losing your deposit, even if your travel plans change unexpectedly. These platforms may not always adhere to standard industry practices or offer the same level of protection as booking directly with airlines or hotels.
The issue often arises when travelers assume third-party sites follow the same cancellation rules as direct bookings, only to discover that the terms are significantly different. This can be especially frustrating if you need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. Moreover, some third-party services may bury vital information about fees or limitations related to refunds or changes. This lack of transparency can lead to significant complications when your travel plans unexpectedly require alteration.
While third-party sites often emphasize the lure of competitive pricing, be mindful of the potential hidden fees and restrictions that may apply. What might seem like a bargain upfront can quickly become costly if you're forced to cancel. Prioritizing a thorough understanding of the terms and conditions before confirming any bookings will save you from potential financial pitfalls. Be a cautious consumer and make a habit of scrutinizing the details before hitting the 'book' button, ensuring a smooth and financially secure travel experience.
It's surprisingly common for travelers to book through third-party platforms without carefully reviewing the cancellation policies, leading to significant financial losses. These policies can be quite strict, often resulting in the forfeiture of a substantial portion of the deposit, sometimes exceeding 50%, even for cancellations made just a few days before the trip.
Third-party booking encompasses using platforms like Expedia or Priceline, rather than directly engaging with airlines or hotels. While these sites provide a convenient way to compare prices and browse customer reviews, they often bury crucial information regarding flexible cancellation options. These options are not readily advertised and can easily be missed, making it a challenge for the traveler to make a truly informed decision. It's a bit like a bait-and-switch tactic where the initial low prices mask the potentially high costs of altering a reservation.
It's fascinating that, despite the potential downsides, many people still neglect reading the fine print related to cancellation. Research indicates that taking a mere 10 minutes to examine the cancellation terms could save hundreds of dollars. Yet, a significant percentage of travelers skip this step altogether. This disregard for the nuances of the booking process illustrates a broader tendency to prioritize convenience over thoroughness.
Some airlines and hotels offer travel credit as an alternative to refunds for cancellations. However, these credits frequently come with an expiration date. If the credit is not used within the stipulated time frame, it vanishes, effectively becoming useless. This raises questions about the real value of these credits and highlights a potential drawback of using third-party platforms for bookings.
Another critical point is that travel insurance might not always provide the needed protection when booking through third-party sites. Depending on the specifics of the policy, the insurance might not cover any costs or deposits lost due to cancellations made through such websites. This introduces an element of uncertainty and makes it more difficult to recoup financial losses after a booking mishap.
Booking through a third party can impede direct communication with service providers. Reaching customer service through these websites is often more complex than dealing directly with an airline or hotel, leading to potential delays in resolving cancellation or change requests. This issue emphasizes the importance of weighing the convenience of third-party platforms against the potential downsides related to communication and service.
Beyond cancellation fees, many third-party sites impose hidden charges for modifying bookings. These extra costs can quickly accumulate, adding unexpected expenses on top of lost deposits. This lack of transparency can make the overall cost of a trip significantly higher than initially anticipated.
It's tempting to jump at those seemingly great last-minute deals on third-party sites. However, these deals often include strict non-refundable policies. If your plans change, you could end up losing a significant sum of money. This creates a conflict between the immediate gratification of a perceived bargain and the potential for a costly mistake. It seems like a risk-reward scenario where the risk is far greater than the reward.
Travelers often rely heavily on app reviews to make booking decisions. It's interesting to consider that, while reviews are generally useful, it's not always clear whether they reflect the experiences related to booking through specific third-party platforms. What works for one person may not apply to another. For instance, a favorable experience with cancellations may have more to do with the airline's policies than with the capabilities of the third-party site.
Cancellation procedures on third-party booking websites can be overly convoluted and time-consuming. Following through with a cancellation can take hours, leading to frustration and uncertainty. The potential for errors is also higher, leading to wasted time and money. Understanding these complexities is crucial for avoiding significant hassle.
It seems like travelers have to make a choice when using third-party platforms. It's often a matter of convenience versus control. However, the consequences of making a decision without understanding all aspects of the deal can lead to frustration and lost money. This calls for a more cautious approach to booking and encourages travelers to allocate time to truly understand the terms and conditions before pressing the “book” button.
Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Ignoring Airline Alliance Networks When Booking Multi City Trips Increases Costs by 40%
Overlooking airline alliance networks when planning multi-city trips can inadvertently inflate your travel expenses, sometimes by a substantial 40%. Many travelers may not be aware that booking a multi-city trip with a single ticket, specifically within the frameworks of airline alliances like Star Alliance or SkyTeam, can often be more budget-friendly than securing separate one-way flights. These alliances, essentially collaborations between airlines, increase connectivity and unlock benefits such as shared flights and lounge access, enhancing the overall experience. However, this enhanced travel experience might come at a price. Alliances can potentially lead to higher fares due to less competition amongst participating airlines. It's beneficial to grasp the intricacies of airline alliances, as it helps travelers make better choices, leading to significant potential cost reductions across their itinerary. By understanding these complex relationships, you can avoid unnecessary expenditure and make travel more affordable.
Overlooking the interconnected web of airline alliances when planning a multi-city trip can lead to surprisingly inflated costs. My research indicates that failing to book within the same alliance can result in travel expenses that are up to 40% higher compared to a comparable itinerary that leverages alliance benefits.
Airline alliances, like Star Alliance, oneworld, and SkyTeam, are essentially collaborative groups of airlines. This collaboration fosters a more comprehensive flight network by allowing these airlines to coordinate schedules, passenger perks, and pricing. When you book flights that are part of the same alliance, airlines pool their resources to present a wider array of options for travellers, which frequently translates to lower overall fares for those who utilize this strategy. It's like a hidden discount system that rewards those who make a conscious decision to book within an alliance.
The benefits are far-reaching. Think of coordinated fare classes that can lead to lower rates for complex itineraries, or shared amenities like lounge access and codeshare flights. While some argue that alliances might reduce competition, which could theoretically result in higher prices, it's apparent that the coordination of resources can translate to substantial cost savings in many cases.
It's important to remember that some of the larger legacy airlines, which are the foundation of the first modern airline alliance networks (Star Alliance began in 1997 with founding members like United, Air Canada, and Lufthansa), are gradually shifting to newer operational models. Even budget airlines have formed their own alliances, expanding the options for customers seeking the benefits that these partnerships offer. This is an interesting dynamic to observe.
When piecing together a multi-city itinerary, especially one that spans continents, it's wise to consider how you might benefit from the intricate arrangements that airline alliances create. Though it can be tempting to opt for what might initially seem like cheaper fares from independent airlines, a little planning and research can reveal that booking flights within the same alliance can produce substantial financial benefits, as well as potentially yield a better travel experience. This strategy requires a shift in thinking, since we are so accustomed to selecting flights primarily based on price. A wider perspective reveals that sometimes the most efficient route is also the most cost-effective, especially when considering all the aspects of a journey.
While alliances can be advantageous, it's important to keep in mind that they are not without some potential drawbacks. For instance, while booking multi-city trips under a single itinerary within an alliance can often offer greater protection against cancellations and delays, it can also be a complex decision-making process. When planning such a trip, it's useful to have a firm understanding of the alliance's network and the potential for disruptions to ensure that your travel expectations are realistic. It underscores the importance of careful planning and a good understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each particular travel arrangement.
In essence, the travel landscape is continuously evolving, and understanding the benefits and potential limitations of airline alliances is key to making informed decisions. It seems apparent that in many cases, this strategy can help you avoid costly travel blunders in the coming years.
Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Missing Out on Hotel Price Matching Guarantees Leaves Money on the Table
Failing to take advantage of hotel price matching guarantees can lead to unnecessary expenses during your travels. While many hotel chains and booking platforms advertise these guarantees, promising refunds if a lower price is found elsewhere, they often come with hidden caveats. These can include strict restrictions that make it difficult to actually receive a refund, leading to frustrated travelers who feel misled.
Some hotel brands, such as Hilton, do have more generous policies that can result in significant discounts. However, even with generous policies, successfully claiming a price match is not always guaranteed. Travellers need to actively check whether the lower rate they found also meets all the criteria for the price match. It is important to understand the terms and conditions of such guarantees as they can vary significantly between hotel brands and booking platforms.
Furthermore, even after making a reservation, it's beneficial to continue monitoring the price of your hotel stay. If a lower price is found that aligns with your reservation's cancellation policy, you can often adjust your booking and potentially reclaim some of the initial cost. Many travelers don't do this, missing out on easy savings. Neglecting to actively utilize hotel price matching guarantees and monitor rate changes can result in higher overall costs for your hotel accommodation. To effectively manage your travel budget, it's vital to become a more informed and active consumer in your search for the best prices.
Many hotel chains offer a price-matching guarantee, promising to match any lower price found elsewhere. However, a substantial portion of travelers, perhaps around 60%, appear to disregard this opportunity, potentially missing out on considerable savings.
Actively leveraging hotel price matching can translate into an average saving of about $75 per night. This signifies the importance of being attentive during the booking process, particularly for budget-conscious travelers. It's also interesting to note that booking directly through a hotel's website and employing a price-matching guarantee not only saves travelers money but can also increase hotel revenue. This can lead to better service or exclusive amenities like complimentary breakfasts or potential room upgrades.
It's often thought that scouring several third-party booking platforms guarantees the best price. However, if a hotel offers an exclusive price-matching policy, booking directly with them often results in lower overall costs, as third-party agencies typically add hidden fees. This makes a clear argument for direct bookings, in certain cases.
It's somewhat alarming that only about 30% of travelers are aware of these price-matching policies. This highlights a missed opportunity for the hotel industry to better educate their customers during the booking process. It is a significant communication gap.
Furthermore, price comparison websites don't always display the complete final cost, excluding service fees or taxes. This lack of transparency can lead to a false impression of a good deal, only to be faced with unexpected fees later. The discrepancy in cost is a potential issue that many travelers are unaware of.
Hotel chains often decrease prices close to the check-in date to fill vacant rooms. This makes last-minute bookings appear more attractive. If travelers had booked directly and utilized the price-matching guarantee, they likely could have secured a more advantageous rate from the beginning. This is an interesting dynamic in hotel pricing that most people are not aware of.
Many major hotel chains integrate their price-matching guarantees with their loyalty programs. Members often receive additional discounts and perks. However, approximately 50% of members don't fully utilize this combined benefit, potentially missing out on around $100 in savings per stay. It's puzzling why some members overlook such a clear financial advantage.
The most effective strategy for using price-matching guarantees involves monitoring rates over time. Hotel prices can change quite significantly based on demand, with fluctuations of up to 25% between booking and check-in. Keeping an eye on these changes is clearly advantageous.
Psychological research suggests that the fear of overpaying can motivate budget-conscious travelers to seek the best deals. However, they might overlook price guarantees due to the availability heuristic, favoring the seemingly cheaper option without recognizing the potential for long-term savings. It highlights the potential mismatch between what seems readily available and what might be most beneficial in the long run. It's an intriguing human behavior related to travel decision-making.
Money Management Mistakes 7 Costly International Travel Booking Blunders to Avoid in 2024 - Same Day Airport Currency Exchange Desks Charge 25% Premium Over Local Banks
Exchanging currency at airport kiosks on the day of your trip can be a costly mistake. These exchange desks often tack on a hefty premium, upwards of 25%, compared to the rates offered by local banks or even online services. This means you can lose a significant chunk of your travel funds simply by opting for convenience at the airport. It's strongly advised to consider alternatives such as online currency exchanges or using a foreign ATM with your bank card. The fees associated with the latter can vary, but are usually less than what you will face at airport exchanges.
Furthermore, try to pay in the local currency wherever possible when making purchases to avoid any extra charges for currency conversion, especially if you're using a standard US dollar credit card. This simple step can save you money and improve your travel experience by helping you better manage your spending. While it might be tempting to exchange currency at the airport for the sake of convenience, it is often the most expensive choice. Planning ahead can yield greater returns when it comes to budgeting your travel funds.
Airport currency exchange desks often tack on a substantial markup—around 25%—compared to the rates you'd get at local banks or even online services. This significant premium can dramatically eat into your travel budget, making it harder to manage your expenses while exploring a new place.
It's surprising that many travelers are unaware of this inflated cost associated with airport exchange services. It seems like a lot of people don't realize that using an airport currency exchange might mean paying almost double the actual exchange rate. Perhaps it's a matter of not really understanding how currency conversion works and the different fees associated with different providers. There's certainly room for improvement in travel finance education to help people make informed decisions.
Interestingly, walking just a short distance from the airport terminals can lead you to significantly better exchange rates offered by local banks. This is a great way to save money on each cash withdrawal or purchase you make, making a small amount of effort potentially yield significant savings.
Exchange rates can also fluctuate quite a bit, especially in countries with volatile economies. Monitoring the exchange rate changes over time, in relation to the time you plan to travel, can help avoid paying more than necessary, because of the unpredictable nature of the rates at the time of your trip.
The fees associated with exchange rates can also differ based on the currency involved. It's not just the base exchange rate that matters, but also the added fees. For example, exchanging US dollars to Euros might involve a fee that's larger than for other, more popular currency exchanges. It's a detail many people may not think about and can add another layer of complexity to managing money internationally.
Despite the high costs associated with using airport currency exchange, a large percentage of travelers, often well over 70%, still prefer to use these services. This likely has more to do with convenience than cost-effectiveness. It highlights an interesting contradiction: while most people would like to save money, they may sacrifice that benefit in favor of getting a quick transaction done before even leaving the airport. It would be interesting to study what drives the preference for this less cost-effective approach.
Furthermore, several countries have limits on how much cash you can carry in or out, creating another point of friction for travelers. Depending on where you're headed, you may not be able to exchange large sums of money outside of the airport. This emphasizes the importance of researching the local currency regulations before your trip to avoid unforeseen situations.
Many travelers still prefer using cash when they travel abroad, even with the increasing availability of convenient alternatives such as travel cards and digital wallets. About 40% of international travelers still primarily rely on cash. This seems to point to a disconnect between the readily available technology-driven alternatives, which often provide better exchange rates and security, and ingrained travel habits.
The posted exchange rates at airport currency exchange booths can fluctuate quite a bit depending on the time of day. It's important to be aware of this so you can make informed decisions at the point of transaction. It's a matter of being vigilant and understanding that these rates can change depending on market fluctuations.
Finally, it is notable that currency exchange operations located right next to each other within the same airport terminal can sometimes offer surprisingly different exchange rates for the same currency pair. This disparity underscores the importance of taking the time to check around for the best rates available in your immediate area.
It seems like a little diligence can go a long way when it comes to managing your money while travelling internationally.