You may feel guilty about attempting to take a vacation in this economy. Here you will find some great ideas for traveling on a budget.

Leave what valuables you can at home and don’t take them on your trip. Having valuable items with you on a trip is just asking to have them lost or stolen.

TIP! Avoid public computers when accessing your personal data. There could be malware that is tracking your personal info.

Plan ahead if you want to travel by air. Major airports are in big cities much of the time, so getting through traffic and to your gate on time can be a challenge. Pack your bags, including your carry-on, before you go to bed. To reduce your pre-flight anxiety, prepare for your trip well in advance. Nothing is worse than missing your flight.

One important thing to keep in your wallet is a color photograph of your child. This can come in handy if he or she gets lost. Not knowing your child’s whereabouts is frightening. Unfortunately, it can happen. If you have a picture of your kids with you, it can help out if they get separated from you in a crowd and you need assistance finding them.

Making travel arrangements far in advance can help keep your trip affordable. There are many things that cost money while traveling and many of them are cheaper when purchased ahead of time. Try not to do things at the last minute in order to have more money left in your budget later.

TIP! In the event your child wanders off, make sure to have a recent picture along with you to help locate him or her. Being away from home and losing a child is a very scary prospect.

If you go traveling abroad, be aware of your surroundings, especially when taking taxis. You should make an effort to ensure it’s a legitimate taxi before you actually enter the vehicle. Anyone can put a sign that says “taxi” on a vehicle; you have no way of knowing who the person is or where you might end up.

Tip the staff at the hotel appropriately when you are staying at a hotel. People generally recommend a buck per bag for the bellhop and $2-5 per day for the maid. Tipping ensures good service and is sure to make your interactions with hotel staff more pleasurable.

The economy being poor and money being hard to come by is no excuse to avoid this year’s vacation. Use the suggestions in this article and find your way to an affordable vacation.