Travel Budgeting

24. Budget for passport and visa costs.

If you are planning a trip that requires a passport and or visa, check its expiration date. Be sure the passport is valid for the entire trip and that you have all the necessary entry-requirement documentation for your destination. There is lots of information on the web on what you need where.

Check with embassies and foreign offices in your own country and overseas to get the most accurate information. Verify this with a travel professional or travel agent prior to booking and departure. Remember to include this as a category on your budget worksheet.

25. Plan and budget for the un-expected and incidentals.

Whether it is as simple as a practical collapsible type umbrella and poncho or a buffer-fund for in case there is a delay, extended stay or other factors where you will incur additional cost. Weather for example, is unpredictable and can ruin a travel experience if you let it.

Again, the key to saving money, avoiding expense, caring for details and being a smart traveler will be organization, planning and fiscal preparedness and resourceful fiscal discipline.