Claw back the cost of your trip

Take the chance to reclaim those all-important pennies.

The silver lining on that missed flight

You may not be able to get a refund on that budget airline flight you missed, but you can reclaim the tax on any portion of a journey you haven’t taken.

Maximise loyalty schemes

Make sure you’re signed up for and using airline and hotel loyalty schemes at every opportunity, including seeing where you can claim points for additional purchases like car hire. Making large purchases on a credit card that offers airline loyalty points is a great way to pile up the miles – but always check terms and conditions carefully.

Also Read: Budgeting tips for travellers

Also Read: First-timer tips for private lodging

Recoup on purchases made abroad

Depending on where you are, you can usually claim back certain taxes paid on purchases made while travelling, especially if you’ve paid with an overseas credit or debit card. Check out the regulations for where you’re going and where you’ve been, as there will be forms to fill in (that you can usually pick up at point of purchase). Payment for services such as car hire can’t generally be claimed back.

Know the inside track

As odd as it sounds, check if certain elements of your holiday are tax deductible, as they may be if, for instance, you combine a holiday with a business trip. Your home government should have advice online.

Don’t lose out on leftover currency

While the exchange rate for repatriating your leftover holiday funds into your own currency will be poor at departure points, you can often find zero-commission fees back at your point of purchase. At larger hostels you may be able to strike a deal with a fellow traveller – if legal to do so of course.

This excerpt has been taken from Lonely Planet’s Best Ever Travel Tips.

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via Lonely Planet India