Journey savvy: 9 tips for mastering time and budget during international travel

We all understand the importance of time and money; however, when you decide to hit international shores, these essentials take a whole new meaning. Apart from different cultures and people, the time zones and currency also change. Once you decide on an international trip, there’s much to plan. From booking tickets to which hotels to stay in, you need to chart your itinerary meticulously. Here are nine essential hacks to guide you as you plan your overseas adventure.

1. Make a realistic itinerary

There are so many places to see but such little time! It will always happen unless you plan smartly. Strategic planning is the key to covering places. Attempting to squeeze in 4-to 5 places within a single day leads to a rushed and hectic experience, where you find yourself constantly on the move from point A to point B. It is wiser to select 2-3 locations that are conveniently situated near one another, allowing for a more leisurely exploration without the constant pressure and stress of hurried travel.2. Flexible booking strategies
While you can plan an impulsive trip, it will be heavy on your pocket. One must keep a gap of two months between booking the tickets and the boarding time. One should use the deals and discounts that credit cards and debit cards offer while looking out for tickets. Always go into incognito mode while looking out for tickets to avoid constant price changes.

3. Travel light
Avoid additional charges that many airlines levy for exceeding the baggage weight limit. Travelling light would be convenient through crowded airports, stations and streets. You won’t have to constantly worry about getting your luggage lost or stolen, as managing one light backpack is easier than carrying 2-3 bags!

4. Opt for public transport
It’s always a great experience to take a subway or a bus to see how the locals travel. Public transport would save you a lot of money, which you can allot to other aspects of your travel such as sightseeing, dining and shopping.5. Get forex cards, avoid money exchanges
It’s advisable to carry forex cards instead of exchanging Indian currency at money exchanges as a) They might not be licensed and b) they might charge higher exchange rates. Therefore, it’s always advisable to use Forex cards for cash withdrawals and shopping abroad.

6. Eat like a local
Try local markets and street food stalls to get the authentic taste of the place you are in. Eating like a local will be lighter on your pockets and introduce you to newer local cuisines. Follow the locals’ favourite food spots to get good value for money.

7. Use expense tracking tools
Document all your expenses in an expense tracking app on your phone. This will help you go back on your spending for shopping, dining and adventures. You can use apps like Mint, Good budget and Expensify to keep a close watch on your expenses.

8. Learn basic local phrases
Learning basic local phrases of the place you will be visiting would not only help you communicate better but also encourage camaraderie with the locals. In case you, unfortunately, get lost in a foreign land, communicating in the local language can get you on the right track.

9. Get travel insurance!

It is wise to be ready for some unexpected events during your travels. In such unfortunate circumstances, travel insurance becomes invaluable. The Bajaj Allianz Travel Prime Individual Plan offers coverage for accidental bodily injury during your foreign travels, as outlined in the policy schedule.

Here’s how the Bajaj Allianz Travel Prime Individual Plan will help you save both time and money during your international trip-

• Personal accident: Bajaj Allianz Travel Prime Individual Plan covers untoward accidents like sudden death or permanent total disablement due to accidental bodily injury during your foreign travel, as stated in the policy schedule.*
• Medical expenses and evacuation^: This parameter of coverage addresses the costs associated with medical treatment for illnesses and injuries incurred during international travels, outlined in the policy terms and conditions.*
• Emergency dental pain relief: Dental discomfort can spoil your travel experience, and getting dental care abroad can be expensive. The Bajaj Allianz Travel Prime Individual Plan offers USD 500 for emergency dental pain relief, as indicated in the policy schedule.*
• Loss of checked baggage: Loss of checked-in baggage during transit, can land you in a soup in a foreign land. The Bajaj Allianz Travel Prime Individual Plan provides wholesome coverage for the complete and permanent loss or destruction of checked-in baggage, as detailed in the policy terms and conditions.*
• Loss of passport: Misplacing or losing your passport abroad can be a significant inconvenience, often requiring additional expenses for obtaining a duplicate. The Bajaj Allianz Travel Prime Individual Plan will cover such costs up to the specified policy limits.*
• Hijack cover: In the event of hijacking leading to the insured’s kidnapping during air travel, the insurance company will offer coverage up to the maximum sum specified in the policy terms and conditions.*
• Delay of checked baggage: If your luggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, you will need emergency purchases like toiletries, medication, clothing, etc. this policy covers the associated expenses, as outlined in the policy terms and conditions.*

Travelling abroad doesn’t mean you have to empty your pockets. If planned smartly, everything can be squeezed in within budget, that too, by not compromising on the overall experience of the trip. Therefore, buying international travel insurance is crucial as it provides financial protection against unforeseen emergencies such as medical expenses or trip cancellations, ensuring travellers can navigate unexpected challenges with peace of mind.

^Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the travel insurance policy.

*Standard T&C apply
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.