Factually, this is true: many hotels themselves have some leeway to offer you discounts, particularly on empty weeks when they’re trying to fill rooms. And you get to compare hotel prices manually.
But realistically, it’s not worth the effort – chances are, you’ll give up and book online instead, and you’ll probably end up with a worse deal because of your last minute booking, wasted time, and a very grumpy mood.
NEXT: Use traveler’s cheques to protect your cash →
2. Use traveler's cheques to protect your cash
It’s like trading your smartphone for a pager, or your car for a horse carriage.
Traveller’s cheques used to be a great idea, in the days when banks were poorly networked.
True – it does protect your money. No one can cash the cheques but you. But this archaic method of moving money is tremendously inconvenient to banks, who will often impose fees. So you’ll wind up losing money anyway.
NEXT: Book the cheapest tour option →
3. Book the cheapest tour option
On a package tour, the cheaper ones usually have tour guides who earn on commission.
That means they’ll drag you to every possible tourist trap – which aren’t even the best places to visit – where you will be harassed into buying every manner of junk.
Plus, if the guide is not making enough money, you can expect the tour to suddenly be cut short.
NEXT: Use the cheap unlicensed taxis →
4. Use the cheap unlicensed taxis
Once you’re in the cab (or you know, “cab”), you’re at the driver’s mercy, and you’ll have to pay whatever exorbitant amount they demand.
Also, your personal accident plan often won’t cover you if you use this kind of unregulated “taxi”.
One common bit of advice we keep hearing among Singaporeans is to use the cheap motorbike taxis in Bangkok. This is something even the locals there consider dangerous. While you won’t get ripped off, you will be going down packed highways at 80 kilometres an hour without a helmet. Not very safe, is it?
NEXT: Bring your loot home in makeshift luggages →
5. Bring your loot home in makeshift luggages
Sure, pack all your stuff into big canvas bags. Or just leave it in a box and tie it all together with raffia string.
The problem with not using a suitcase is the damage you risk. Baggage handlers don’t treat things with loving care, so be prepared to have a few things broken, or have your belongings be left in a total sprawling mess should the bag fall apart.
