Vacation Planning

Cards Declined in Copenhagen: Lessons in Travel

In the last edition of my newsletter, you heard about our amazing trip and how we were able to pay for almost everything with points and some smart pre-planning. (You’ll see photos today).

Now, you will hear what didn’t work. This was big lesson for me.

To stay on budget, we used mainly cash. We even bought foreign currency before leaving home. We were able to purchase Crown, Kroner, Euro and Rubles at our local exchange in Connecticut.

But we knew we would want to use credit occasionally, so we called our credit and debit card companies to let them know where we’d be travelling and on what dates (as I’ve told you to do many times).

Imagine our surprise when our cards were declined in Copenhagen. We had dinner with friends and asked the restaurant split the bill between us – half on their card and half on ours. Ours was declined. We knew it wasn’t the machine because they processed our friends’ card first. We could see that theirs worked because the staff at the restaurant actually processes the credit card at your table using a portable machine.

We wondered if it was because we were using our US debit card with a pin. So we ask them to do it again as a credit card. It still didn’t work. The staff said that a lot of US credit cards are declined for some reason.

And, it wasn’t just the restaurant. We tried using the credit card when we checked out of the hotel. Again, declined! It was very embarrassing.

When we returned, I called the credit card company to ask why they wouldn’t accept our transactions. After a lengthy conversation, and several people, they realized that they couldn’t see any of the attempted transactions in their system. Fortunately, I kept the receipt as proof, but even with the evidence right in front of them, they still couldn’t give me an answer.

The mystery continues. Thank goodness for our American Express card. It saved the day.

Remember, no matter how prepared you are. Things can go wrong. Make sure you have a back-up plan when you travel.

Update: A big thanks to Heidi for giving us an explanation! Apparently, their credit card machines are programmed to accept cards originating from countries in the European Union – and nowhere else. I guess that makes things easier for Denmark, but not for tourists! Read her full comment below.

Lessons in Cheap Travel from an Expert: Me!

We just returned from an amazing trip to Northern Europe and, surprise, surprise – it didn’t break our bank account. How did we do it?

Transferable frequent flier miles

When we fly, we usually use one airline so our frequent flier miles are easy to use. But, our first destination was Copenhagen and our favorite airline doesn’t fly to Denmark. Lucky for us, the airline was in the One World Alliance so we were able to transfer our miles to another airline to receive free flights – we only paid the taxes.

We earned extra miles just by eating out and shopping

Our airline has a dinning program so you can eat out at participating restaurants to earn miles. The program is free. You just need to register your credit or debit cards. The shopping program works great for us. When we shop online, we start at their shopping website. Then use their links to access popular retailers. Between flying, eating out, and ordering online our frequent flier miles really add up.

We used our hotel points

Our flight got us in to Copenhagen a day early, so we had time to explore and meet up with a good friend. We stayed at a hotel and our lodging points covered the cost of both nights. Even better, we used extra points to upgrade to a room with access to a hospitality suite that served breakfast and late afternoon snacks.

We used timeshare points for the cruise

As some of you know, we like to take cruises. So, when we found a cruise that visited the Baltic regions of Northern Europe, we were really excited. Neither of us had been, so it was a first. We were so happy to find that we could trade our timeshare points for the cruise. All we paid were the taxes and port fees. We sailed to Tallinn, Estonia; St Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland and Stockholm, Sweden.

Yes, it took a lot of coordination and advanced planning…

But, our travel, lodging and cruise were covered – we only paid taxes (which were minimal). Of course we spent money for some of our food, entrance fees to museums, the tours themselves and souvenirs. But we saved money by walking, taking public transport, or tour transports where the only cost was the tip for the guide.

So, that’s my experience and my expert advice. You can travel without killing your budget!

That’s several more countries checked off our bucket list. Where would you like to go?

Before you head out for your summer vacation…

Take these precautions so you can enjoy a safe and worry-free trip.

Call your credit card companies to let them know where you will be. Your credit card company will know it’s you making the charges and will let them go through.

Put a hold on postal mail, newspapers, and any other regular deliveries before you go. You don’t want mail piling up advertising a vacant house.

Clean out your wallet. Remove all items that will not be necessary (that includes your checkbook). Carry two credit cards, and if you are traveling with someone, have different credit cards in case one wallet is stolen.

If you need to use an ATM, use one at a bank (preferably in a lobby). They are less likely to be tampered with.

Be careful when using hotel computers and Wi-Fi networks. Do not access your financial accounts as identity theft can be right around the corner.

Beware of fake calls from the “front desk”. If you receive a call from the hotel front desk telling you your credit card didn’t go through, it could be a scam. Thank the caller, and then go to the front desk in person to straighten this out. Never give your personal information over the phone to someone who calls you.

Taking a few precautions before, and during, your vacation may save you from financial troubles when you get back.

Airline Tip: Fly Smart with Fewer Fees

If you’re a long-time reader of Quick Tips, you know that we like to travel. We’ve become expert at getting the most out of our vacations while keeping our travel costs low. In the last few years, the airlines have been adding so many fees… they kind of remind me of the banking industry.

But, there ARE ways to avoid or reduce those airline fees! Let me help you.

When I first started to travel, you paid for your airfare and all the little perks were included – checked luggage, beverage and a meal, the seat of your choice, and a movie. Those were the good old days.

Now back to today’s reality. All those little extras come with fees that can make even the most reasonable airfare seem expensive.

Baggage Fees

There is a real advantage to traveling light. Don’t over-pack. Choose clothing that you can mix and match. I personally pick three color themes for the trip so that all my clothes can be interchanged. Because I pack fewer clothes, I can bring my luggage as a carry-on to avoid the baggage fees and save time at the airport. If you try this, just remember to pack 3 ounces or less of toiletries because you won’t be checking your luggage.

Airline Food

If healthy eating is as important to you as your wallet, you will bring your food with you. Buying food on the plane, or in the airport, can be unhealthy and expensive. Pack what you like to eat, and you will be all set. Remember to bring an EMPTY water bottle. That can go through security, and you can refill before boarding the plane. Or, just purchase a beverage after the security check point.

In-flight Entertainment

Entertainment can be costly on the plane, but you can avoid it. Are you carrying your own electronics on the flight? If so, you can save money. Most mp3 player ear buds will work to watch the movie – you don’t need to rent or buy headphones from the airlines. Maybe you’d rather watch your own entertainment – bring it with you. While you can’t use Wi-Fi for free, you can watch what you already have downloaded to your laptop or tablet. This will save you even more money.

Choosing Your Airline (and your seating arrangement)

When you book your flight, there are so many options to choose from and all at a cost to you. Where do you want to sit? When do you want to board? All of your choices can cost money. Only you can decide if being one of the first to board the plane, and sitting up front, are worth the added fees. Personally, we fly one airline (and its partners), so we have frequent-flyer status with the airline, and get some seating benefits without paying additional fees.

If you’re a frequent flyer, you can do this too. If you’re not, you can participate with a credit card rewards program that can offer some of these perks without the fee. Beware: the types of credit cards that offer travel perks are usually the kinds that have an annual fee and/or a higher interest rate.

Look closely at how you travel, and consciously choose the perks you want to pay for.

Do you like to travel? How do you avoid added airline fees? Join the discussion.

Clean out your wallet before you take a vacation

While you’re packing your suitcase, don’t forget to properly pack your wallet. You want to bring only those items necessary for your trip.

This is one of those little tasks many people forget before leaving home on a vacation, a long weekend, or any other trip.

For example, you might want to carry only one or two credit cards. If you’re traveling with a spouse, don’t carry the same credit cards. If one of you loses his wallet and has to cancel the VISA card, you could still have your MasterCard or American Express.

What about the cards you leave at home? They should be locked up in a safe place (not left in a drawer). It’s impossible to keep your travels secret. The wrong people might know that your house will be empty for the next week.

But, back to your missing wallet. How did that happen? Did you forget it somewhere, or did you leave it unattended in the wrong place?

You may feel paranoid about leaving your wallet back at the hotel, but it’s much worse to keep your valuables in a beach bag while you’re in the water. Most hotels have safes which allow you to lock up you valuables before you head to the beach.

What if you’re just at the beach for the day? Leaving your wallet in the car is not a great choice, either. Parking lots near tourist destinations are popular targets. If you have to leave it in the car, keep it in a not-so-obvious place so it’s not easy to find in a smash-and-grab.

Taking a few simple steps to protect your wallet, and your identity, ahead of time can save your vacation, and hours of your valuable time. You don’t want to have to clean up an identity-theft mess after your vacation.

Make Your Dream Vacation Affordable

Last issue we talked about vacationing locally and all the things you can do close to home. But, what if you really want to get away? How will you save money, then?

We travel often and are able to save in a variety of ways. Here are some of them:

Travel during shoulder season (that’s somewhere between peak and off-season). We’re going to Aruba in the Fall. The Caribbean is off season at that time because of the hurricane season, but Aruba is usually too far south to be affected by hurricanes.

Comparison shop to get the best deals – there are so many websites that will do this for you. I like Kayak for airfares.

Reward Programs – if you find yourself using a particular airline or hotel, join their program. I know you’ve heard that you may not be able to use your miles for flights. I can tell you that I haven’t found that to be an issue. You do need to plan ahead to get the reward you want. We have used airline miles for many trips, including a flight to Alaska in August.

For rental cars, we make our reservation early, but don’t prepay. Then we check back regularly to see if the price has dropped. You will be amazed at how much the price can drop closer to your trip!

Discounts and coupons – don’t forget about those. We recently went to an aquarium because our water company sent a buy-one-get-one-free coupon with your bill. Coupons and offers can come from a variety of sources. If you have a membership with a service like AAA or a store like Costco, check their mailings or website. Once you reach your travel destination, the visitors guides typically have clip-out coupons (make sure you pick them up when you arrive).

Stay at a place with a kitchen (or at least a fridge) to help your budget. You can shop when you get there for meals and snacks.

Bring your own food on the airplane. Take carry-on food versus buying in the airport or on the plane. You can’t bring drinks, but you can buy a beverage in the waiting area, or get a free drink after boarding. Your own food will undoubtedly be healthier and more satisfying than anything they have to offer.

We’ve had trips in the past where we’ve traveled for next to nothing. Our airfare was paid for with miles and our lodging with hotel points. We only had to pay for food, local transportation, and entertainment.

What do you do to save money on vacation? Join the discussion.

Save Money – Stay Local this Summer

Share Your Vacation Story!

Planning a great money-saving vacation? Share your tips! You can post your story in the comments below or on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter. Or, you can email me at book @ jillrussofoster.com. I can’t wait to be inspired by your summer plans!

Here are my suggestions!

Now that it’s Spring, you’re probably thinking about summer travel plans. I know I am. But, with the price of gas going up, you might be thinking, “Can I afford to do something this summer?” You can if you stay local. Here are some free or low-cost suggestions:

Local museums – Museums can be pricey, especially if you’re bringing the whole family. But most museums have free days or discount days. Check the website or call the museum to see when their next discount day is, then plan a vacation day around that.

City parks for movies, concerts, or theater – Many Parks and Recreation Departments host events. These might be free, or low cost, and all you need to do is pack a picnic. In our area, we have movies in the park, many music concerts and Shakespeare on the Sound. Check out your town’s website to see what they offer.

Libraries – Check your library’s event listings (we use our library all year long). Many libraries host interesting talks, movies, and even musical events.

Holiday Celebrations including parades and fireworks – What is your town doing? Check out nearby towns, too.

State Parks – You’ll get a change of scenery and a day outside.

Tourist activities – Be a tourist or visitor in your town (or nearby) and check out the sites. Try to see your town with new eyes and check out the funny little restaurants, art stores, outdoor art, and important town landmarks.

Get together with family and friends – Plan a get together to reconnect. We have one planned for July already.

Go to the Beach – This is one of my favorite places to relax.

Street Fairs and Festivals – Many areas have multiple festivals throughout the summer. There are arts and crafts fairs, ethnic celebration festivals, and antique car shows. You can buy pottery one weekend, and dance the polka the next. Use the internet to see what’s happening in your area.

What do you have planned? Join the discussion.

You can vacation and still save money

Does the high price of gas have you thinking about whether or not to take your summer vacation this year? This doesn’t have to be the year of the staycation if you don’t want it to be. Here are some tips for taking your vacation and saving money too:

Look for the lowest price of gas. You can do this with many phone apps or with a little planning before you go.

Make sure your car is running in good condition.

proper tire pressure
remove any unnecessary weight / objects from your car that aren’t needed
stay at or under speed limits
avoid traffic jams (at other times than rush hours)

Comparison shop for more than the price of a night at a hotel. What else does the hotel offer?

Some will offer a shuttle service (you can forgo the rental car).
Some will offer you gas reimbursement.
Pick a central location so you can walk, take public transportation, or bicycle.

Rent your car away from the airport. This can save you money on taxes and fees. Compare the costs of an airport pick up versus another location. Even with the cab fee, it could be cheaper to rent your car away from the airport.

Remember your membership benefits. Many memberships, including AAA, AARP and more, offer discounts. All these savings can add up. Check online before you go for discount admissions to places.

A little planning can add up to taking a vacation instead of staying home.

Quick Tips: Vacation Safely

If you’re going away on vacation, you need to take some steps to protect yourself and your belongings. But, most of us aren’t covering all the bases. Here’s what I suggest you do:

Stop the mail, newspaper, and any other automatic delivery
Make arrangements for pets and plants
Call your credit card companies to let them know where you will be so that they can approve any charges you make and contact you if needed.
Make sure you have paid all your bills ahead of time so that you don’t have a late payment (remember: late payments are the biggest factor of your credit score).
Adjust your thermostat accordingly and unplug any unnecessary electronics. It’s also a good idea to set timers for any lights or electronics you want turned on and off in your absence
Have someone either housesit or check on your house frequently
Clean out your wallet. Remove all items that you won’t be using. This includes local items (like library cards), rewards cards, and any credit cards you won’t need on vacation. You should only carry what you will be using. If you are traveling with a spouse, make sure you travel with different credit cards. If one of you loses a wallet, then the other will still have credit cards that are usable.
If you will be travelling with a passport, make sure to make two copies of the information page, and don’t keep the copy with your passport. Keep one with you in case you lose it and give one to someone you trust who isn’t traveling with you.

What do you do before you go? Let me know your tips.