With less than two weeks left in the year, hundreds Colombians prepare to travel during the peak season. Since there is more income for tourists in cities due to holidays and celebrations. That’s why BBVA has prepared a series of Tips so that the end of the year does not put a heavy strain on your pocket when traveling.
(Read: Air passenger traffic has stopped thanks to foreign tourists.)
According to data from the Colombian Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (ANATO), last year recorded a record number of Colombians who traveled abroad, reaching 4.9 million people. however, It is important to organize expenses in advance so that your pocket does not suffer During and after New Year’s Eve and the holiday season.
BBVA experts pThey recommend reviewing where your money is to start managing a budget. This balance sheet will include your assets, including savings and available funds, and what your liabilities are, taking into account all debts and payments you have to make.
(See: Travel agencies sold 7% more to foreigners at Christmas than last year.)
Although it is one of the most common pieces of advice when it comes to financial health, Advance planning always prevents money leakage, Therefore, it is important not to leave purchasing tickets and booking accommodation until the last minute, because as the celebrations approach, demand also increases and prices may rise.
next to, It is important that the value of the trip adjusts to your borrowing capacity. You can visit places that are less touristy and a little cheaper or places that are traditionally more expensive. In this step they add Offers and discounts that you can review Constantly, some travel agencies and airlines launch promotions that allow you to save.
It is also necessary to determine the types of expenses:
● Basic expenses: Such as plane tickets, gasoline, ground transportation fees, accommodation and meals.
● Extra Expenses: Resources you can spend in case of an emergency, or for souvenirs or details you want to bring to your friends and family.
(Also: The tourism sector continues to demand more stimulus for next year.)
Although we often like to take it home in our suitcase, It’s important to only travel with what you need if you don’t want your pocketbook to suffer. This way, carrying one backpack will be less expensive than carrying several. Some airlines generate a charge if you carry bags in the baggage hold, which may increase the value of this service.
You can also apply the option of traveling by ground transportation, since a bus ticket may be cheaper, or If you ride your car, you should consider the price of gasoline and the number of tolls.
On the other hand, it is suggested Take advantage of the savings you’ve saved throughout the year Or to credit cards if you want to make a large purchase, such as tickets. Avoid buying more than you can afford or what you don’t need, as unconscious use of credit cards is one of the causes of over-indebtedness.
(Also: Year-round availability for families to be able to travel.)
Finally, BBVA’s financial wellness experts recommend not forgetting about personal finances, even though it’s a time to take a break and disconnect. It is important to be familiar with billing and payments, Review bank statements to avoid negative reports or additional late payment interest costs in the following months.
Paola Andrea Galeano Balaguera
Portfolio journalist
“Beeraholic. Friend of animals everywhere. Evil web scholar. Zombie maven.”