Everything you need to know about money and traveling for your next trip abroad.
BUDGETING
AIRFARE
Depending on where you are located, your airfare can play a large role in budgeting. We typically recommend budgeting anywhere from $750-$1,000 USD per person for your flights. This can help you choose the best European destination for you.
TRIP TYPE
Our most economical trip type is our self-drive tour, however, we also offer private driver tours with your own personal chauffeur to accompany you throughout your trip. This is an important decision in the travel planning process. If you are unsure where to start, your Travel Specialist will help guide you in the right direction.
EXCHANGE RATE
Tenon Tours will always quote in US dollars with the most up-to-date exchange rates. Once your trip is confirmed, your exchange rate is locked in so that future fluctuations will not be used against you. If the exchange rate drops in your favor, we offer the option to be re-quoted within 30 days of your confirmation.
TRAVEL SEASON
The time of year you choose to travel is just as important as your trip type and destination. Traveling in the off-season or winter months can lower costs significantly. Summer months are popular for traveling and an increase in cost (and crowds) is likely.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much money should I take when traveling?
It’s nice to have cash when you land, but carrying too much cash can make some people uncomfortable while traveling internationally. Taking out $300-$500 is standard.
We recommend ordering foreign currency at least two weeks before your trip. Ask for smaller bills as larger ones can be difficult to convert.
Where will I get the best exchange rate?
Bank ATMs are the easiest way to get cash while traveling and will likely offer the best exchange rate. Be sure your card has a 4-digit PIN as many machines in Europe do not accept cards with a PIN longer than 4 digits. You can check with your local bank to see if they have a “sister” bank abroad as you may be charged with a foreign transaction fee and a local bank fee. Avoid currency exchange storefronts as their rates are among the highest.
Can I use my debit card?
Mastercard and Visa are universally accepted, be it credit or debit. AmEx is also welcomed in many places, but not all. American Express fees are among the highest for retailers.
OTHER MONEY TIPS
- Please note if you are traveling to Switzerland, the preferred currency is the Swiss Franc, not the Euro.
- We recommend paying in the local currency to save the foreign transaction fee. Paying in USD can sometimes double the foreign transaction fee.
- We advise against traveler’s checks, as few places still accept them. If you do not want to carry your main debit or credit cards while traveling, ask your bank to open a new account with a new card.
- Before traveling, notify your bank and credit cards of your travel plans.
- Don’t keep everything in one place. Split your money and credit cards between a couple of carrying spots.
- Keep the Value Added Tax (VAT) in mind. This is added to most things you purchase abroad. As a tourist, the VAT will be refunded to you by submitting receipts at the airport when you return home.