We stay in close contact with our group leaders and tour directors throughout the entire trip-planning process; from the first phone call to returning home, we are there every step of the way. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions that we get during the planning process regarding spending money on tour:
How much spending money do you recommend bringing?
This depends entirely on what has been included in your tour. If your group has not included On-Tour Tipping, you’ll want to budget money to tip your tour director and bus driver(s). You’ll also want to budget about $10-$15 total per traveler for your local guides and any possible airport transfers. If lunch is not included in your tour, we recommend each traveler budgets about $10-$15 per day for this as well. On service tours, you are welcome to bring money along to go shopping for donations. The only other money you would need is for souvenirs, and that amount is entirely at your discretion!
What is the best way to convert money?
First of all, avoid exchanging your money at the airport at all costs. We recommend starting off your tour with at least $100-$200 in local currency in hand, too. You can exchange U.S. dollars by ordering through your bank or a currency converter (TravelEx, AAA, etc.). While on tour, we advise you to withdraw cash using ATMs. Contact your bank to see what affiliate banks are connected to your account to help minimize withdrawal and conversion fees. Finding a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees will be your best bet overall though.
What if there are multiple currencies used on my tour?
Most of our tours limit the amount of time you’ll spend in another country that uses a separate currency. In these cases, we recommend using a credit card or debit card for any purchases. In countries like Switzerland, though, you can pay in Euros and your change will be given in Swiss Francs.
What is the best way to pay on tour?
While some cash is good to have Credit cards are also widely accepted in major cities, especially in Europe, Asia and the South Pacific, but in rural Latin American areas, they often prefer cash. Note also that AmEx and Discover are not as widely accepted abroad and that traveler’s checks have become obsolete, so we encourage against them. For debit users, note that many ATMs only support 4-digit PIN codes, so be sure to update yours as needed.
Have more question? Visit the FAQ page on our website or contact us directly!