One of
the best ways to kick off the new year is to take a realistic look at your personal financial situation for the next
twelve months. I’ve spent a good portion of the morning doing just that — online banking, bill payment and account
transfers. It can be a grueling task at times, but is an absolutely essential step. Take an honest look at where things
stand — this includes assessing your travel budget for 2006. What does yours look like? Whether you are planning to
take one short trip this year or are embarking on a long-term journey (like my upcoming European adventure), take some
time this week to review your travel finances and set reasonable goals for the coming year. As I prepare to leave the
States for at least five months, there are tons of little details regarding my personal finances that need to organized
— I want all my banking to be easily accessible online, I need to activate electronic bill payment so that thing will
automatically be paid while I’m traveling, and I need to make sure I choose the right methods for purchases while
abroad. I’m happy to know that at least I seem to have the best credit card for overseas purchases. As I was reading
through financial tips and suggestions this morning, I came across this Consumer Reports travel
alert, which shares important info regarding the use of credit cards when traveling internationally. I’ve heard
that my Capital One account is one of the only ones around that does not charge transaction fees, but of course that’s
on the list of things to do this week too — call them and double check their current policies. Which reminds me of
another call I’ve got to make — to the cell phone company, to ensure that my calling plan is cancelled at the right
time and with no hidden fees. The list goes on and on…No matter how big or small your travel plans are for the coming
year, take some time this week or this month to study up so you won’t be caught by surprise…and enjoy saving for that
next trip on your travel to-do list with financial peace of mind.