Whether you travel by plane, train or ship, transportation costs are the bulk of your vacation budget. And, since you’ve become a savvy traveler when it comes to booking your accommodations with your Travel Set Go membership, you’re well on your way to saving on your next vacation. So, with the help of these travel saving suggestions, you can get the most out of your trip without the stress of depleting your vacation funds.

How to Pay and More

When you’re traveling abroad, it’s important to touch base with your bank before you leave. This will prepare you in two ways. First, it will help you prevent fraud alerts or freezes to your account that can paralyze your plans when traveling. Secondly, you can learn about any potential fees that could be incurred on your debit card when you get there. Besides, the regular transaction fees banks charge when traveling abroad, many banks charge an international fee as well. One option is opening an account with a bank that waives international fees, or, make sure to avoid multiple withdrawals.

For those using credit cards when they travel, seek out banks who offer credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees. And, when possible, avoid cash advances which carry the highest interest and transaction fees.

The most expensive venue for exchanging money when you arrive is at the airport, so be aware. To avoid exchange fees, use your debit card and withdraw cash from an ATM instead.

With the dollar gaining strength, travelers are smart to keep abreast of global exchange rates to get the most out of their vacation money. Visitors to Iceland get the greatest value out of their money and good exchange rates have been reported in South Africa, Brazil and Hungary. And, the dollar is at an all-time high against the peso in Mexico.

Pack Your Own Medicines and Save When the Unexpected Happens

Medications like vitamins, cough drops, Ibuprofen and allergy pills are often high-priced at airports and touristy convenience stores so bring a small bag of your own and save big. And, be sure to keep your prescriptions in their original pharmaceutical bottles, complete with their labels, to avoid any issues in different regions of the world. Liquid prescription medications are not subject to TSA restrictions but it’s important to store them correctly to avoid having them confiscated.