Visiting another country often requires lots of preparation leading up to the trip, from applying for a travel visa to learning the basics of an unfamiliar language. One of the most common tasks is exchanging your money for foreign currency. When abroad, it’s helpful to have local currency on hand for making purchases, especially as many restaurants and shops abroad still don’t accept credit cards, and in case of emergency. However, exchanging currency comes with potential risks — even experienced travelers often fall victim to predatory practices. So, before you head to the airport to embark on your next journey, here are six common mistakes people make when exchanging foreign currency and how to avoid them.

Exchanging Money at the Wrong Place

High-traffic areas with many tourists are among the worst places to exchange currency. This includes airports, train stations, hotels, and exchange kiosks located near public squares and other popular areas. Many of these locations take advantage of tourists who wait until the last minute to exchange their money, and they charge fees as high as 20% for each transaction. Many tourists assume those fees are standard and don’t even realize they’re being taken advantage of until it’s too late.

The best place to exchange currency is actually back home with your bank. Some banks, such as Bank of America and Citibank, will even waive fees for exchanging money, while others impose a more modest 1% to 3% transaction fee and offer reasonable exchange rates — far less than many dedicated kiosks overseas. We recommend calling your bank first to check if they have the currency you’re looking for, as not all banks carry every type of foreign currency. 

If you can’t exchange money at your bank or are already abroad, check with your home bank if there are any in-network ATM locations overseas. Again, the fees for doing so will be far less than going to a kiosk at the airport or hotel. Unfortunately, it’s not always that simple to find an in-network ATM overseas. You may end up having to settle for withdrawing money from an out-of-network ATM and paying whatever fees they impose, but they are usually still lower than dedicated exchange kiosks.

Failing to Research Exchange Rates

Do a little research about exchange rates beforehand to ensure you don’t get ripped off like less knowledgeable tourists. If you know the current exchange rate, you can walk into a currency exchange center and ask for a more favorable deal. If they refuse, then just take your business elsewhere. Companies like Bloomberg and Reuters provide helpful resources that are frequently updated and will keep you privy to the latest rates.

Exchanging Too Much Currency

It can be tempting to load up on foreign currency so that you don’t have to worry about running out and needing to withdraw more overseas. The downside, however, is that you may end up with extra cash at the end of your trip that you have no use for. Sure, you can exchange that currency back into U.S. dollars, but then you’ll likely be subject to the same fees that you already paid when you made the initial exchange. Try to develop a realistic budget for your trip abroad and avoid overdrawing too much cash from the get-go.

Not Being Aware of Fees

In addition to the upfront exchange fees that people warn you about, there may be several hidden fees that you won’t know about until it’s too late. These can include service fees, conversion fees, and other sneaky charges. Be sure to clarify what fees you’ll be paying before actually handing over money, and don’t believe anyone who tells you that their fees are the lowest in town — this is likely just a deceptive marketing tactic.

Throwing Out Your Receipts

No traveler wants to return home from a trip only to realize more money was withdrawn from their bank account than expected. Incidents like this are why it’s essential to hold onto any receipts from foreign currency transactions — that way, you have proof if you need to dispute any charges with the bank. Only throw out your receipts once you’ve returned home and confirm that everything appears correct in your bank account.

Using Your Credit Card

If you don’t have cash handy or a debit card to use, then you could use your credit card for a cash advance. However, this is almost always a terrible idea. You may end up paying more in fees than you actually withdraw due to the high-interest rates and exploitative charges associated with cash advances. That said, it’s usually safe to use your credit card to make international purchases — just check with your bank beforehand to confirm what percentage they impose on international credit card transactions. Many banks offer credit cards that waive any foreign transaction fees, which makes them a handy alternative to exchanging currency abroad. 

Packing for a trip is a lot like playing a game of Tetris — just when you think it’s going well, you make one silly mistake and need to start all over again. This can be especially frustrating when it comes to smaller carry-on bags, which many people rely on for shorter trips or to avoid those hefty checked bag fees. But often, travelers fall victim to the same packing mistakes and end up with too much clothing to fit in their carry-on, leaving them to pay extra for an additional suitcase. Looking to avoid that scenario on your next trip? Here are eight clever carry-on packing tricks.

Note: All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Daily Passport may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Wear Bulkier Items on the Plane

Even if the weather doesn’t call for it, try to wear your bulkiest items on the plane, thus freeing up valuable space inside your carry-on. If you’re traveling from somewhere warm to a colder climate, wear your down jacket to the airport — it might be uncomfortable at first, but you can always take the jacket off on the plane. This tip also goes for boots, sweaters, or any other item that may take up too much room in your carry-on. Instead, stick to thin fabrics when packing.

Bring Samples of Your Favorite Cosmetics

You’ve probably got a favorite shampoo or preferred brand of foundation, but those big bottles can take up valuable storage space. Instead of carrying around full-size products, shop for travel-size containers or, better yet, head to your local beauty store for free samples of your favorite products. Free samples offered at retailers such as Sephora often come in tiny packages that are perfect for maximizing space (and are also small enough to pass TSA regulations).

Use a Vacuum Sealer

It’s not just your clothes that add bulk to your suitcase — pockets of trapped air between articles of clothing can also add volume. Enter: vacuum-sealed storage bags. Vacuum sealing reduces the volume of each bag by up to 80%, allowing you to pack five times as much in any given carry-on. If you’re in the market for such a product, then this compact electric pump from Wanalit is an affordable and effective option. 

Avoid Denim

You may need to leave that denim jacket or your favorite pair of jorts back home if you want to pack efficiently. As a material, denim is quite bulky and heavier than most other fabrics, which means you’re potentially adding unnecessary weight to a heavy carry-on that you’ll be lugging around the airport. If you want to bring a pair of jeans, try wearing them on the flight to free up storage space.

Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling up clothing instead of folding it has a number of advantages. First, rolling often means fewer wrinkles, so your clothes are ready to wear the moment you unpack. Second, the tighter the cylinder, the more space you’ll be saving — you can even use rubber bands to keep each roll of clothing tight. If you’re especially pressed for space, roll up a few shirts and tuck them into your shoes. Another handy trick frequent travelers swear by? Packing cubes. These expandable compression packing cubes allow you to squeeze even more into your carry-on. 

Store Chargers in an Eyeglass Case

Have a spare eyeglass case lying around? You can use it to store any loose charging cables for your phone, tablet, or other device. This helps lessen the amount of clutter in your carry-on, and also keeps those chargers organized so that you can easily access them once you reach your destination. Eyeglass cases are also perfect for storing jewelry, medicines, or any other small, loose items.

Pack Hats Upside Down

If you’re traveling to the beach with a big sun hat, be sure to pack the hat in the carry-on upside down. This allows you to store extra items inside the open portion of the hat and maximize the room you have available. Doing this also helps the hat maintain its rigid structure so that it doesn’t get squished by the rest of the items inside your carry-on.

Zip It up First… Then Add More

If you’re still struggling to close your carry-on because it’s packed to the brim, try this method: First, remove a few items and zip up the bag. Once the bag is completely closed, unzip a small opening that’s just a few inches wide and stuff whatever you can into whatever limited space is available. Repeat this process elsewhere around the entire edge of the bag until you’ve utilized all of the available space and can’t fit another item inside.

No one wants their vacation ruined by theft — so it’s understandable that many travelers will seek to reduce the risk of it happening while on the move. There’s something to be said for the peace of mind that can come from choosing luggage that makes it more of a challenge to steal valuables and vital documents. Though these bags can be on the pricey side, if you travel often, they may be worth the investment. Indeed, more travelers are choosing anti-theft bags than ever before. Interested in joining them? Here are the key features to consider and our picks for the best anti-theft bags for traveling with peace of mind.

Anti-Theft Bag Features to Consider

Thieves can use a range of different techniques to steal your possessions. Though it might be obvious, it’s worth reiterating that an open bag is the easiest target. Choosing one that can be securely closed, such as with a heavy duty, lockable zip, is a smart first step. Crossbody bags can help avoid thefts caused by distraction scams or drive-by snatches. You should also consider luggage that features extra durable fabric and a hidden lightweight steel mesh (these are typically marketed as anti-theft bags). Finally, look for a bag with plenty of internal pockets so you will know where everything is, and you won’t need to leave the bag open for long to rummage around.

Pacsafe Citysafe Square Crossbody

Now that you know what to look for, we’ll share few of our favorite pieces of anti-theft luggage for traveling. First up is Pacsafe, one of the industry-leading brands for anti-theft bags, from fanny packs to backpacks. This crossbody bag is ideal for travelers who are sightseeing in busy cities and other crowded places. Available in three colors, it has a number of anti-theft features, including an embedded mesh that prevents the material being cut, interlocking zippers that attach securely to an in-built bar, and a reinforced shoulder strap that’s long enough to be worn across the body. With plenty of pockets for essentials such as wallets and cell phones, it’s a good choice for day use.

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Bag

This roomy anti-theft bag from Travelon, which comes in several colors, is both stylish and practical. Two easy-to-access external pockets can be locked for security, while the slash-resistant body and straps offer peace of mind. The fabric is water and dirt-resistant, making this bag an attractive option while exploring in all types of terrain. Its padded sleeve is large enough for a 10-inch tablet, and there’s a tethered key clip with LED light. This bag also features expandable pockets that can accommodate bulky items such as a water bottle or collapsible umbrella.

Wander Plus Anti Theft Slim Sling Bag

Those who like to travel light will appreciate this slimline anti-theft bag from Wander Plus, which is surprisingly spacious yet fits close to the body. The sling-style design means it fits under a jacket or hoodie, while the adjustable straps ensure a snug fit. The invisible zipper makes it tricky for potential thieves to access its contents, and there are multiple places to store items, including a secure internal pocket. Plus, it’s a good budget-friendly option.

WENIG Anti-Theft Travel Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for an affordable anti-theft backpack with lots of capacity, then this laptop backpack from WENIG is hard to beat. Multiple pockets and compartments help keep your things organized, while the bag’s in-built USB charging port and charging cable can be combined with your own power bank to ensure you stay connected. Lockable zippers and a hidden inside pocket give you the confidence to carry your valuables inside. The water-resistant fabric helps also keep your belongings dry in showery weather, while the padded shoulder straps are comfortable on the go.

Arden Cove Victoria Tote

The Arden Cove Victoria Tote is an expensive option, but if you’re looking for an anti-theft bag that is as beautiful as it is functional, you may consider this worth the investment. This weekend-ready tote is made of microfiber faux leather that is hard to scratch, scuff, or stain. It’s lined with slash-proof fabric and is fully customizable — just switch out the straps to turn it into a backpack or a messenger bag using the bag’s handy D-rings. The large compartment will accommodate a laptop, while an internal water bottle loop keeps bottles upright, reducing the risk of spillages.

Most hotel breakfasts, while delicious, feature simple, tried-and-true favorites like sausage patties, scrambled eggs, and steaming pots of coffee. But then there are certain hotels whose extravagant breakfast platters stand out above the rest — ones serving up indulgent morning feasts worthy of any five-star restaurant. Even if you’re not a hotel guest, it’s worth checking out these lavish hotel breakfasts across the United States.

Provisional Kitchen at the Pendry – San Diego, California

Provisional Kitchen at the five-star Pendry San Diego is the perfect place to start your day before heading out to explore San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter. No matter what day of the week it is, the Provisional Kitchen serves up regionally inspired breakfast fare like chilaquiles and omelets made to order. And on weekends beginning at 7:00 am, diners can opt for a curated five-course brunch experience for $65. 

Perhaps the real highlight from the menu, though, is a platter simply called “the Ostrich Egg.” This one-of-a-kind breakfast serves three to four hungry guests, requires advance reservations, and costs a whopping $135 — but each ostrich egg is roughly equal to about 16 chicken eggs. The eggs are surrounded by other delicious breakfast staples like crispy bacon, plump sausages, fresh tomatoes, avocado, and pieces of artisanal bread that you can dip into that gooey, tasty yolk.

The Americano at the InterContinental Buckhead Hotel – Atlanta, Georgia

The Americano at the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta serves up breakfast classics like fluffy pancakes smothered in maple syrup and rich plates of eggs Benedict. But on Sundays, this eatery in Atlanta’s trendy Buckhead neighborhood seriously elevates the morning meal with their special Sunday brunch. Diners can enjoy a selection of decadent dishes like seafood towers, steak and eggs, as well as bloody marys presented tableside with a variety of toppings according to preference. 

The seafood tower comes with shrimp, oysters, a daily market selection, and an ounce of caviar for an additional $60 if you’re feeling extra fancy. But for many diners, the highlight of the menu is the steak and eggs, which features two eggs prepared to your liking along with a choice of filet, porterhouse, or ribeye along with truffle jus. Adding to the elegant ambiance, the hotel’s Sunday brunches are accompanied by live jazz music.

The Buffet at Wynn – Las Vegas, Nevada

The Wynn Las Vegas is one of Vegas’ most popular buffets, and for good reason. The restaurant opens its doors every morning at 8:00 am, though you may want to arrive even earlier as there’s often a line out the door. Once inside, diners have dozens of gourmet options, including a newly installed made-to-order eggs Benedict station. You’ll also find items such as unlimited biscuits and gravy, red velvet waffles smothered in Nutella, and birthday cake-flavored pancakes made right in front of you.

Such a high-quality buffet does come with a steep price tag, however, and adults can expect to pay at least $60 per person (or $30 more for unlimited mimosas). But if the popularity of the Wynn buffet is any indication, the dining experience is well worth it.

The Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel – New York, New York

Located at the southeast corner of Central Park, the Plaza Hotel is one of New York City’s most famous hotels. It’s also where you’ll find the equally lavish Palm Court restaurant. The dining room features ceiling-high palm trees and custom furnishings, along with an elegant stained-glass dome that’s reminiscent of the original one that was installed in 1907.

Only hotel guests can make breakfast reservations, but walk-ins are welcome if space is available. Once seated, you may have a hard time choosing from the wide variety of popular dishes on the breakfast menu. Highlights include the Arabic breakfast, which contains eggs, roasted tomatoes, and Mediterranean fare such as pita, hummus, labneh, and halloumi. The Palm Court’s signature dish is Dungeness crab cake eggs Benedict — a rich and delicious, start to any morning.

Amangiri Restaurant – Canyon Point, Utah

Located amid the spectacular reddish terrain of Canyon Point, Utah, Amangiri encourages guests to reconnect with nature and enjoy relaxing activities such as desert yoga. And there’s no better way to kick off a stay here than with one of the more lavish breakfasts in the country. Amangiri’s breakfast menu draws inspiration from the American Southwest and incorporates many unique regional ingredients. Even better, the restaurant is located in a spectacular poolside setting enclosed by the surrounding rolling hills. 

Start your breakfast at Amangiri with a refreshing juice cleanse; there are several energy and immunity-boosting juice options on the menu. Then order one of the restaurant’s signature benedicts, which include a classic option with Canadian bacon, one topped with lobster and caviar, and another containing elk and boar sausage. For the diner with a sweet tooth, Amangiri serves pancakes that are made in a cast-iron pan inside a wood oven, which are then topped with maple syrup and fresh berries. Or, you can enjoy some French toast topped with locally made prickly pear compote. No matter what you choose, you’re in for a treat.

Note: All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Daily Passport may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Booking a flight — especially if you’re on a budget — can seem daunting. It can feel like each time you look at the fares advertised on airline websites or online travel agencies, the price changes — sometimes by a considerable amount. No one likes missing out on a great fare or paying more than the passenger seated next to them. So, we took a look at the data about whether there’s really a perfect time to book a flight — and here’s what we found out.

Ask the Experts

Airline ticketing is a dynamic process, and fares change constantly. That said, data-based reports from industry experts that analyze overall trends in data can help considerably as you embark on the purchasing process. For example, Expedia’s annual Air Travel Hacks Report helps potential bookers make evidence-based decisions about the flights they select. Its findings take into account a wealth of data in conjunction with the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) and data specialists OAG. 

Best Time to Book Domestic Flights for Cheap Airfare

What do those reports tell us? According to the 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report, the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is currently 28 days before you are planning to depart. Data compiled for the online travel agent’s latest survey suggests that you might save as much as 24% on the cost of your ticket when compared with waiting to book last-minute. 

Travel agency CheapAir’s survey had similar findings. It concluded that the prime booking window fell between 21 and 74 days before departure — and that 42 days out was, on average, the cheapest for domestic flight purchases. However, it also found that the average fare changed a jaw-dropping 49 times between the date of release and takeoff. Because of this volatility, you might wish to sign up for frequent flier programs and email newsletters that enable you to jump on promotional deals as soon as they are launched.

Cheapest Time to Book International Flights

When flying internationally, travelers tend to book further out. Long-haul flights tend to be more expensive, and locking in a deal earlier can be beneficial when budgeting the rest of the trip. Expedia’s findings indicate that, in order to secure savings of around 10%, you should try to make your purchase approximately two months ahead of departure — and usually no more than four months in advance.

However, other travel companies had different findings. For example, in November 2023, Kayak said that their data indicated booking eight months ahead was the ideal time for travelers to pin down their flights to Africa, Asia, Europe, Central America, or the South Pacific for 2024 travel. They predicted that travelers doing so could save an average of between 8% and 18% on the cost of their airfare. This discrepancy only reinforces the fact that prices fluctuate, so knowing in your own mind what constitutes the kind of deal you’d be happy with is important. 

What’s the Cheapest Day to Fly?

It’s not just when you book — there’s also a huge variation in prices according to the days and times you choose to actually fly. Obviously, traveling outside peak holiday periods and popular vacation times is a must for deal seekers. However, the day you choose to fly can also noticeably impact the fare even during low season. 

A good tip is to try to predict when many others will want to fly and choose a different time or day. For instance, when most travelers plan a weekend away, they’ll set off on Friday and return late on Sunday, as this minimizes disruption to the workweek. So instead, try flying out on Saturday and back on Monday.

Flying midweek — on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday — can also make a big difference to the cost of your airline ticket. You can also save by flying very early in the morning (one of the best times to avoid flight delays) or by taking an indirect route with one or more layovers. In general, it helps to be flexible. If a routing is less convenient, fares will be discounted — sometimes considerably so.

Is There a Perfect Time to Book a Flight?

Ultimately, because of the many variables involved in ticket prices and each traveler’s specific set of criteria, it’s virtually impossible to say with absolute certainty the best time to book a flight. Plus, future fares will be influenced by demand going forward, which is uncertain due to the large number of factors that come into play. But as long as you’re happy with the fare you’ve settled on, then you can consider that a good deal.