Relaxing Tips for Credit Card Use on Vacation

Ah, it’s time to get away for a week to relax on your vacation. But even on vacation, you have some responsibilities to manage your credit cards and your spending effectively.

Make a budget

When you plan a vacation, you should plan a spending budget for travel, lodging, food and all other spending. The key to making a vacation budget is STICK TO THE BUDGET. Having a fun and relaxing time on your trip may tempt you to use your credit cards more freely and spend a great deal more than you planned or expected. You don’t want to be surprised at the end of the month when your statement arrives, displaying hundreds of dollars of charges you didn’t even realize you made.

Planning travel

If you are taking a trip that requires air travel, plan to book early. Use your credit card to secure your tickets online at trustworthy discount airfare websites such as Travelocity or Orbitz. Make sure you carry the same card at the airline check-in that you used to book the flights.

Reserve a hotel and rental car

Your credit cards will be useful when you plan ahead and book your hotel and/or rental car. These service providers always require a credit card to hold your reservation. When you make these reservations, note the cancellation requirements and deadlines for check in. You don’t want the hotel or auto rental company to charge your credit card if you have to cancel your travel plans.

Keep your cards safe

While you are on your trip, always keep your credit cards in a safe place away from potential pickpockets. Tourist vacation spots are always prone to professional pickpockets and thieves. A good way to protect your credit cards and ID is to use a pouch that fits around your shoulder and torso, or your waist. Keep it zipped and locked at all times.

Be flexible on your spending

You don’t have to use your credit cards for all your vacation spending. Plan to carry a little cash, or even bring a debit card that uses money straight out of your checking account. The less you charge to your credit card, the less you’ll have to pay off in the end.

Avoid the tourist trap

Most popular vacation spots have the ever-present “tourist traps,” featuring markets that sell trinkets and souvenirs. These spots are tailor-made to tempt you into spending more than you planned. If possible, avoid them (do you really need that ten-pound sea shell?) or be prudent when shopping through them.

Keep all receipts

Receipts are an important part of sticking to your budget. How will you know what you have spent if you don’t keep track of your charges? Always save your credit card receipts and keep them tallied so that you stick to your planned budget spending.

You have worked hard to enjoy your vacation. With a little planning, you can control and use your cards safely and wisely and be sure to fulfill your dream of relaxation.

Write to Grace Carter at grace@creditdonkey.com