5 Money Saving Tips
Going abroad will never be easy on your bank account. Before going on a trip, you will be advised to set aside a good amount of money. Despite the fact that Australia has a weaker dollar than the US, they certainly made up for it by inflating their prices even higher. Living in Tasmania was a little expensive, but there were plenty of ways to get around emptying out your wallet.
- Use Cash
Although almost all places of business will accept card, many companies charge a small fee when you use your card abroad. This fee is relatively small, maybe only costing you 10 cents per purchase; however, it definitely adds up! Try to exchange currency and get a good amount of cash before going abroad. If need be, get more cash from ATMs while abroad rather than using your card, there’s only a 3 AUSD fee.
2. Use Public Transportation
Rather than spending money on ubers or taxis to get to and from downtown, the metro can take you almost anywhere around Hobart! Each ride costs university students 1.80 AUSD and is relatively fast. Passes can be purchased downtown where money can be added as well.
3. Find Happy Hours
The phrase “Happy Hour” generally refers to drinks, but what most don’t know is that it can apply to food as well! Hobart is bustling with so many restaurants and cafes, that there is almost always a happy hour happening somewhere. Cheap food, cheap drinks, in exchange for a great time.
4. Pack Basic Medicine
You’ll be surprised the amount of times you need aspirin, cough drops, or even bandaids. Traveling can induce a cold on its own, and you don’t want to be spending money on overpriced medicine as well.
5. Don’t Impulse Buy
It can be hard knowing what’s unique and native to a country versus something you could get back home. There will be lots of markets and events where you’ll want to buy everything you see, but use your better judgement! I’m not saying you shouldn’t buy anything at all that catches your interest, but be selective. There’s a lot out there that isn’t as great as its hyped up to be.
Follow these 5 tips and you should be returning back home with a full wallet and full heart!
Looking for a fun day trip thats fulfilling and cheap? Try hiking trails on any of Tassie’s amazing mountains.
