Like many of you, my family loves to travel, but we hate the high cost of travel. One of those ridiculous travel necessities (if you are flying to a far away destination) is the dreaded rental car.

It’s not bad enough that they hook you with seemingly reasonable rates on their website and then hit you with fees, luxury taxes, etc.  They will also try to add an additional $10-15 a day in “rental insurance” fees.

Agents will tell you that by purchasing this insurance, you are all covered in case anything should happen during your rental agreement time. In fact, they may even joke with you that you can bring the car back in a cardboard box and that you will not owe a dime.

What they won’t tell you is that depending on your insurance provider you are already covered for car rental damage. My husband and I called our insurance provider, and low and behold, we were fully covered when it came to car rental insurance.  No need to purchase additional coverage.

Not sure if you have this particular coverage? Call your friendly insurance agent before you travel and ask them if you are already covered for car rental insurance. A 30-second phone call could save you lots of $$$$.

I’m notorious for getting to my travel destination and realizing that I packed five pair of pants and only three shirts. And one of the three shirts doesn’t even match! And I discovered the secret that solves this problem; Make a list!

Here are three simple steps to make sure you arrive with all of the clothing you intended to take:

 

Step 1

Mentally plan what you’ll wear each day—including your travel days. Don’t forget the accessories—belts, scarves, shoes and socks.

Step 2

Lay out these items and then pack in outfits, specifically.

Step 3

Make a list. Write down each and ever item you need to pack and pack it in your suitcase, too.

Step 4

Once you’re back home and unpack, leave one important item in your empty suitcase: The list! You’ll be miles ahead for your next trip.

Vote for me as I’m saving for my next trip!