Vacations are meant to be relaxing, but under planning and overspending can lead to financial stressors. Taking some time upfront to complete just a few short tasks can change your outcome and provide peace of mind.
Consider the following tips to reduce travel-related anxiety and help you make the most out of your time away—whether journeying across state lines or overseas.
- Create a travel budget: this will help you make well-informed financial decisions while away without compromising your long-term savings goals when you return.
- Think mini getaway: taking shorter, more frequent trips versus one big faraway bonanza not only requires less planning and is generally less expensive but offers more opportunities to unwind year-round.
- Plan in advance: trip planning can be stressful - research destinations, make reservations, prepare itineraries and align these with your budget. Decide on a reasonable timeline and ensure you have your affairs in order (impending deadlines, medication needs, mail hold, baby-sitting and dog-sitting/house-sitting arrangements).
- Control what you can: unexpected surprises like flight delays and lost or stolen items can quickly sour your vacation mindset. Travel insurance can help you recoup some of your expenses and soften the blow but make sure to read the fine print. Some credit cards—especially those designed for travel—offer protections for delayed flights, lost luggage, trip cancellation, accident insurance and more.
- Travel notifications: complete this form for any travel plans you have to let Heartland know when you are traveling both inside and outside the United States to avoid account freezes or declines for “suspicious activity.”
You also might consider taking some cash just as a backup and even an extra credit card. It’s always better to be over-safe, than sorry that you didn’t take a few additional steps.
As always, remember that as your trusted community bank, we are here to help. We hope you find these tips useful - enjoy a well-deserved vacation!