As the holiday season approaches, eager travelers have already started planning for the holidays ahead. Here are four tips for preparing your trip.
1. Check if your documents are valid
You can finally dig out your passport or/and international driving permit and put them to good use! Before planning your trip, do remember to check the validity of these documents. There are now many means to renew passports, including online, mobile app, travel document submission kiosks, drop-in, by post or in person. More details can be found from the Immigration Department website. For international driving permits, application can be made online via an iAM Smart+ account with digital signing function or a valid personal digital certificate.
2. Money exchange
Pay attention to the foreign exchange rates ahead of time and consider phasing your money exchanges. Also handling fees may vary at different banks and money changers. If your destination is not among the most popular ones, your bank/money changer may not have enough currencies for the exchange. Do contact your bank/money changer earlier to buffer enough time for the exchange.
Typically, the rates at local money changers, hotels or tourist sites are less favourable. Unless you are heading to destinations which currencies are difficult to exchange in Hong Kong, avoid exchanging money at your destination. Also, keep your receipt so you can change your money back to Hong Kong dollars upon your return.
3. Work out the numbers
There are many ways to spend your holiday – some are willing to splurge, while others may prefer to set a budget. Always discuss and agree with your travel buddies on the choice of destination and budget to ensure everyone is on the same page. There are many expense items to cover, including plane tickets, transportation, car rentals, accommodations, sightseeing, and show tickets etc. Plan according to your budget and what you can afford.
When it comes to taking out travel insurance, it is equally important to consider its coverage and claim procedure. Especially in a post-pandemic era, there are many policies that provide covid-related protections. Before making any purchases, understand how trip/flight cancellations, becoming infected during your trip, and overseas medical expenses are covered and their claim procedures.
4. Save up before your trip
There are many expenses to consider when travelling. Be well-prepared financially so you won't find yourself strapped for cash and having to take out cash advances or borrow money for the trip. To help you budget for your trip, aside from working out your travel expenses in advance, you can also start saving early by making use of IFEC's Savings Goal Calculator to help you realise your travel goal.
