I get overwhelmed just thinking about the effort it takes to plan, pay for, and physically take my tired, unexfoliated body on a summer trip. But then I remember that it’s almost always worth it. Even a wet, buggy camping misadventure has the upside of making your regular life seem like a vacation by comparison. (Or so I seem to recall from the last time I camped, approximately seven years ago.) The point is, it’s good to get a change of scene.

That said, nothing spoils a vacation like being on edge about how much it costs. There’s too much pressure! If you drop a bunch of money on a hotel and your Wi-Fi doesn’t work or the room smells funny or your window overlooks a parking lot, you’ll spend the whole time seething about how much more you would enjoy spending the same amount on Seamless with a view of Netflix from your own couch.

Of course, the sweet spot is to get out of town, take a break from your routine, and do things you enjoy without racking up a bill that will erase your postholiday glow. This can be difficult, especially during peak vacation season in July and August. A recent survey found that about 60 percent of Americans plan to travel this summer and one in five plan to spend “significantly more” than they did last year. (This isn’t just because things are more expensive — people are planning more lavish trips.)

If you, like me, do not plan to be one of those people, what are the best ways to save money on summer travel this year? I asked a bunch of financial experts for tips they are currently giving their clients — and are using themselves.

1. Decide in advance what you’re willing to spend on and what you aren’t.

Obviously, everything is a trade-off. But it’s smart to consider which financial compromises you’re willing to make before you get talked into a lobster dinner after a few glasses of wine on your first night in Lisbon. “Reflect on what you really enjoy and splurge on those things while ‘cheaping’ out on others,” says Megan McCoy, a financial therapist and professor of financial planning at Kansas State University.

It’s also worth thinking about where your money will go the furthest, says Katie Gatti, the host of Money With Katie. “I am almost always willing to pay more for better flight times,” she says. “While you may be tempted to save $150 by opting for the 6 a.m. flight with two connections, the connections take time out of your trip, and it’s torture to wake up at 3 a.m. To me, spending a little more on a direct flight at the time I want goes a disproportionately long way.” (Alternatively, if you would rather sacrifice a few hours of vacation and/or sleep to save a few hundred bucks on your flight, do it!)

Also, consider the location of your hotel. “Some people like to splurge on fancy properties or better rooms, but I generally find that spending a little more on location is a good investment,” Gatti says. “It means that you spend less time and money on public transportation or rideshares once you arrive, which can affect how much you enjoy the trip and what you’re able to do in your limited time there.”

Personally, I have hard rules for what I will and won’t spend money on while I’m traveling so that I don’t hem and haw over every temptation. For example, I generally refuse to pay for travel upgrades. I will be miserable on any airplane, no matter what kind of seat I’m in, so it’s not worth it to me to pay hundreds of dollars more for four more inches of legroom. I also have a policy against shopping while traveling (I learned this after I bought a hat that looked so cool in Santa Fe but that I absolutely could not pull off at home). This includes souvenirs. No one wants a shot glass from New Orleans. Or if they do, they won’t be getting it from me.

Conversely, I will spend money on nice drinks, good food, art museums, and anything that allows me to skip a long line. You can hate my rules and I don’t care! You get to make your own.

2. Talk to people who live where you’re going or know a lot about it.

“Connect with at least one person who lives locally and knows the area well who can give you tips on things to see, do, and eat for less,” says Farnoosh Torabi, host of the podcast So Money and author of multiple best-selling books on personal finance. “These suggestions might be off the beaten path but more authentic and less touristy.” (Another upside to knowing locals is that they might invite you over for dinner and you’ll get to see how people actually live — also fun and free-ish.)

If you don’t know anyone who lives where you’re going, cast around for people you trust (and have a similar lifestyle — i.e., budget) who have recently visited and ask them what they recommend and what they don’t. This is how I wound up in a strange neighborhood in Mexico City visiting a free art fair in an abandoned convent that was easily the coolest thing I saw on that trip.

Touristy places are always more expensive, usually crawling with other tourists, and probably just as cool as some other less famous spot that hasn’t been tagged by a million influencers. So why not try the latter?

3. Extend your vacation mentally.

Traveling someplace new can have huge benefits for your psyche — research has found that it’s linked to open-mindedness, emotional intelligence, and enhanced creativity. You can milk these effects by appreciating your destination before you get there and after you return, says Manisha Thakor, a certified financial planner and author of MoneyZen: The Secret to Finding Your Enough.

“A vacation can be a sizable chunk of your discretionary budget, and one way to make the most of that money is to spread out the joy of the trip by watching documentaries about where you are going and even reading novels that take place there,” she explains. “Just doing one of those things before, and maybe another one after, can help extend the joy and feeling of your vacation.”

I actually do this too. Starting about ten years ago, before I go anywhere, I try to read at least one book set in that place or by an author who lived there (Gabriel García Márquez before I went to Colombia, Colette before I went to Paris, Roddy Doyle before I went to Ireland). Watching a movie set there counts too. And the halo effect is real — I feel like I’m already on my trip before it starts and then I can “go back” afterward by reading and watching more about it.

4. Be strategic about food and drink.

Everyone I spoke to brought this up: When you’re traveling, eating and drinking get pricey, and no one wants to pay $7 for a rock-hard bagel in the airport. Luckily, there are ways around this.

First of all, always bring nonperishable stuff to eat from home. “I like to bring a Tupperware of snacks,” like protein bars and nuts, says Gatti. She’ll also keep them in her hotel room or wherever she’s staying when she arrives. “It means I’m not spending $15 on subpar airport sandwiches or relenting to the $40 continental breakfast simply because I wake up hungry and need to get something in my stomach.”

If you’re staying at a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast, go to town. “In many European countries, breakfast comes included with a hotel stay,” says Thakor. If you’re feeling really shameless, you could sneak some into your aforementioned Tupperware and save it for later. Don’t be shy about doggie bags, either.

If you’re traveling with kids (or you just get hangry on a regular basis), it’s almost always worth it to book a room or an Airbnb with a small kitchen so that you can store, cook, and eat meals without being beholden to restaurants, says Sonya Britt Lutter, a certified financial planner and financial therapist. “As soon as you arrive at your lodging, find the nearest supermarket and stock up on drinks, too.”

Drink free coffee wherever you can get it (most hotels offer it), and make sure to bring a refillable water bottle so you aren’t paying $5 for Evian out of a minibar, says Stephanie Genkin, the founder of My Financial Planner. And finally, do your own research — many tourism boards and hotels get kickbacks for the things they suggest. “Don’t ask the hotel concierge where to go for dinner,” she adds.

5. Look at your credit-card offers.

I’m not one for obsessing over credit-card points or signing up for new offers just to get a few hundred airline miles — if you’re into that, great, but I find it’s often more trouble than it’s worth. Still, if you’re planning to travel, see what your credit card can do for you, says Torabi. The same goes if you work for a big company that may have corporate-travel perks.

“Your credit card or even your employer might have relationships with hotels where you can, because of your affiliation, snag some freebies and discounts,” she says. “My credit card’s website has a travel-booking page that offers perks like free breakfast for two and $100 spending money at the hotel.” Don’t get trapped into booking a more expensive place just because of these bells and whistles, though.

6. Consider shipping your luggage ahead of time.

Rich people do it all the time, according to luxury-travel agent Jaclyn Sienna India, but so can the rest of us. If anything, shipping your stuff to where you’re going — especially if it’s domestic — costs less than most airline baggage fees do. Sure, you have to pack in advance and go to the post office (a voyage in itself, let’s be honest), but it sure beats schlepping your stuff through various airports and running the risk of losing it en route.

7. Save your splurges for the last day.

Okay, this is purely my own tip: I once read that the last day of a vacation is the most important because if you end the trip on a high note, you’ll come back refreshed and remember the whole thing more fondly. So now I always save the best for last. During earlier parts of a trip, we’ll stay in more affordable Airbnbs or with friends and family. Then, for the last night or two, I’ll book a hotel room or fancier Airbnb, find a cool activity, and plan a great dinner. It saves us money overall and still feels like a treat.

It’s summer and the temperature is rising. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

It’s set to be another scorching summer, with extreme and prolonged heat waves forecast across many parts of the United States and Europe.

The stifling conditions could impact millions of travelers and wreak havoc on vacations at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Multiple heat-related deaths among tourists have been reported in Greece and Saudi Arabia in June following extreme temperatures in the Middle East and Aegean regions. Even those who have booked trips in traditionally cooler places may not be spared from the summer heat because of the growing unpredictability of weather patterns.

Here are some tips on how to manage high temperatures when traveling in a heat zone.

Check government guidance

If a heat wave has been forecast at your destination, check government websites before embarking on your trip to give yourself plenty of time to plan and adapt. In extreme temperatures, governments often issue heat advisories warning people to stay indoors during peak heat hours and provide resources to help residents and visitors stay cool. In the United States, the National Integrated Heat Health Information System has a website with information and tools to help prevent illness and death during excessive heat.

Tourist attractions also provide important updates about the conditions at the sights, including any scheduled closures, as a precaution against high temperatures. Some cities grappling with intensive heat, like Los Angeles, Miami, Athens and Melbourne, have assigned chief heat officers to prepare for the heat waves and lead emergency responses.

Avoid peak sun hours

It may seem obvious, but staying outdoors for prolonged periods of time when the sun is at its peak can put many at risk of heat exhaustion. Even if the temperature does not read exceptionally high, excessive dry heat or humidity can make an environment feel hotter than it is.

Travel advisers are adapting itineraries, putting sightseeing in the cooler early morning and evening hours and prebooking tickets for their clients so they do not have to wait in long lines.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

Hiking in the middle of the day is also not advised. On June 5, Dr. Michael Mosley, a British medical journalist, died during an afternoon hike in a 104-degree heat wave on the Greek Island of Symi. Four more tourists, including an American man, have recently died in Greece as temperatures have continued to soar.

“I would always recommend going hiking with a certified local guide and under no circumstances alone,” said Franziska Basso, a Milan-based travel adviser for Dreamsteam Exclusive Travel. “Of course, avoid the hottest hours of the day. Go hiking very early in the morning. And always stick to official hiking trails.”

In some European cities, including Paris and London, air conditioning is not a given, so check if it is available before booking a hotel, restaurant or transportation to ensure you have a cool place to find respite from the scorching heat. Visiting a museum or other indoor sightseeing is another good option, but expect crowds at peak hours.

Stay hydrated and take a siesta

Dehydration and heatstroke are among the most common causes of hospitalization during heat waves and can be prevented by staying hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption. During meals, consider eating foods like melons, cucumbers and celery as it can help to sustain hydration throughout the day. Always carry a water bottle with you and consider a parasol and portable fan to help keep you cool and shaded when outdoors.

While your itinerary may be packed with activities and tours, the heat can take a toll on stamina, so consider following the European siesta ritual by breaking up your day with a short nap.

“I’m telling my clients to adapt their itineraries and take advantage of the after-lunch siesta and then push their tours to later in the day when it’s cooler,” said Sarah Johnson, who owns Paper Ink & Passports Travel, a luxury travel company based in Pennsylvania. “There’s a reason they’ve been doing it in Spain and Italy for generations. Walking around in the midday heat and waiting in line could really hurt some people.”

Wear cool clothing

The National Weather Service recommends lightweight, loosefitting, light-colored clothing for outdoor use as it reflects heat and sunlight. Hats and sunscreen are also recommended to protect the face and scalp from harmful UV rays.

Just because it’s hot, doesn’t mean it will be dry. Heat waves can bring torrential rainfall, so be prepared.

“My biggest advice to travelers is to be prepared — for hot or cold, dry or wet weather since one never knows,” said Laurel Brunvoll, the owner of Unforgettable Trips, a Maryland-based travel agency. “Pack layers.”

Book a flexible trip

Even after taking all the right precautions, traveling in a heat wave can be miserable, making it worthwhile to make flexible bookings and purchase “cancel for any reason” travel insurance to have the option to postpone your trip to a cooler time.

Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. Travelers booking through a Sensible partner in the United States will be able to add daily protection that will allow them to claim reimbursement for a booking if the temperature exceeds a threshold that is usually set between 90 and 100 degrees.

“Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder, who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold.

When traveling this year, you might be wondering how to stay healthy as you go. For sure, getting sick can sure put a damper on your trip.

Spending time in airports or places where people gather increases your risk of picking up the cold or flu, says the Journal of Travel Medicine. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to prevent catching a virus while in transit. Here are five tips — such as eating immune-boosting foods — to help you stay well during your holiday travels.

1. Get a Flu Shot

Getting the flu vaccine is absolutely the best way to reduce your chances of catching and spreading the flu. The flu vaccine boosts your immune system to help your body fight off viruses that cause influenza.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it takes about two weeks for the flu shot to provide protection, so try to get one as soon as possible. Fortunately, flu vaccines are readily available in many locations, possibly even at your local pharmacy. Your doctor can also administer the vaccine.

2. Avoid Germs

Most contagious viruses and bacteria are transmitted when you touch a contaminated surface. Simply grabbing the doorknob of the airplane bathroom and then touching your eye, nose or mouth is enough to get you sick. Here’s how to avoid that from happening:

• Wash your hands, including your fingernails, regularly with soap and water, or with an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Use a paper towel or tissue to open door handles or turn off water faucets.
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes after touching something a sick person might have touched.
• Use disinfecting wipes to swab armrests, tray tables and other surfaces.
• Stay at least six feet away from anyone who appears ill or who is coughing or sneezing.

3. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is crucial for healthy travel, especially if you’re flying. The mucous membranes in your nose are part of your body’s natural defense against bacteria and viruses. The air in an airplane cabin is extremely dry; dehydration and dry air can desiccate nasal passages, which can make you more susceptible to a fellow passenger’s flu-packed sneeze.

Be sure to carry bottled water when traveling and avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol. Packing some Power Packs in your carry-on is a great way to help you rehydrate.

4. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep helps keep your immune system strong. The Mayo Clinic says that lack of sleep increases your risk of getting sick.

Try to get a good night’s sleep the day before you travel, and maintain a regular sleep schedule as much as possible while on your trip. Here are a few tips to help you get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep every night:

• Keep your room cool at night.
• Minimize your caffeine and alcohol consumption.
• Avoid electronic devices such as smartphones and e-readers for at least an hour before going to bed.
• Travel with an eye mask and earplugs and get some rest while in transit.

5. Eat Healthy

Maintaining a good diet will keep you healthy year-round, but especially while you’re traveling. Eating a balanced diet, with a focus on whole and immune-boosting foods, goes a long way toward supporting your immune system and fighting off infection.

By following these simple tips, you’ll know how to stay healthy while traveling.

From Tokyo to Rome, it’s clear which countries travellers are gravitating to for their summer travel plans this year! Here’s everything you need to know.

Now that summer vacations are finally upon us, everyone’s looking to the next big hotspot to head for a relaxing trip. Amongst these locations, these 7 countries have emerged as one of the most popular amongst tourists, each with their own appeal. Here’s where your next visit could be:

London, United Kingdom

There’s a lot to see all over London, as one of the most touristy cities on the planet that welcomed more than 21 million international tourists throughout the year. Besides the iconic snapshots like the British Museum or Buckingham Palace, however, there’s a lot beyond the well-trodden path like the vibrant markets of Camden and Borough Market that place a focus on both fresh produce and actually making social connections!

Tokyo, Japan

As Japan’s largest city, Tokyo has simply been growing and growing since its founding. It’s honestly pretty hard to imagine the small fishing village of Edo that stood in its place for centuries before it became the capital of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603. Today Tokyo is a dazzling mix of cultural gems and neon-lit skyscrapers that are sure to create a trip you won’t forget.

Rome, Italy

Rome is in itself an archaeological gem, completely overflowing with historical treasures and hopes. From the awe-inspiring pillars of the Colosseum to the halls of the Vatican Museum, it holds the complete history of the Roman Empire in its city. Besides its landmarks, you might even want to go for a stroll along its forgotten lanes, as every unturned stone has its own story to tell.

Cancun, Mexico

Right on the shores of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun has several stunning beaches to explore that offer a charming underwater retreat for people that are looking for the chance to explore some water-based adventure sports, like snorkellig or scuba diving by the coral reefs!

Orlando, United States

For travelling families, Orlando offers a lot of themed amusement parks and endless entertainment. From recognising all the iconic characters strolling about Walt Disney World Resort and the thrilling rollercoasters at Universal Studios, there’s quite a lot to explore!

Paris, France

Once the premier tourist destination for travellers, the City of Lights’ allure has never dimmed! Whether it’s the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum, the key word to remember as you curate your travel itinerary for Paris is culture! There are simply so many memories to make that it’s an absolute dream for lovers.

New York, United States

The Big Apple itself, New York is known for its skyscrapers that touch the clouds and for the artistic spirit of the city. With the iconic Statue of Liberty and Times Square immediately identifiable from its name, New York has etched its name into the conscience of the world.