Does a short trip over the weekend really require a close perusal of your finances? The answer may surprise you.
Sometimes a shot weekend trip is just what we need to relax and unwind after a hectic week at work. As the old saying goes, ‘all work and no play makes Jack a colossal bore at cocktail parties’.
Let’s face it. We all need some downtime to blow off some steam, especially if we’re constantly worried about making Credit Card or loan payments every month. However, there’s no real reason you need to take your worries along with you on a weekend getaway, because if you do, it pretty much defeats the purpose of a getaway doesn’t it?
So, to ensure that the only baggage you carry with you on your trip are a change of clothes and questionably-patterned undergarments, here are some financial tips that should put your mind at ease before you head out.
Additional Reading: 9 Tips To Make Holidays Affordable
- Pay Your Phone Bill
Even though you’re probably only travelling a short distance, it would be prudent of you to pay off any outstanding mobile dues. You certainly don’t want to be far away from home without any network to speak of, especially if you’ve planned a short trek in the wilderness or hills. You never know when a sudden emergency may rear its head, so try not to tempt fate in this regard.
Also, if you’re a prepaid user, make sure you recharge your phone with enough currency so you won’t have to worry about making calls should the need arise. And it also goes without saying, make sure you carry your phone charger or a portable charger along. Investing in a portable charger can certainly come in handy on all your future trips as well.
Additional Reading: How To Check Your Bank Balance Without Internet On Your Phone
- Clear Credit Card Dues
Even if you can’t pay off a substantial portion of your outstanding Credit Card dues before you leave, at least try and pay a fair amount so that you free up your credit limit on your card. This could act as a backup or failsafe in case you run out of cash or if you need to pay a hefty amount to take care of a sudden medical emergency or something similar.
But remember to use it only if absolutely necessary. Just because you’re heading out on a mini-holiday doesn’t mean you should get carried away and swipe your card without a care in the world. Exercise restraint at all times or you could come back from your trip more stressed than ever.
Additional Reading: The Pros And Cons Of Increasing The Limit On Your Credit Card
- Get Insured
Regardless of whether you’re going on a trip or not, insuring yourself and your family against any unforeseen circumstances should be at the very top of your list of financial priorities. You may tell yourself that you’re only going away for a short while, so what’s the worst that could happen?
Well, we don’t mean to scare you, but you never know when accidents or a sudden illness may occur. To protect yourself and your loved ones, taking out a good Car Insurance and Health Insurance policy should be something you shouldn’t skimp on.
Car Insurance can cover you against any expenses due to the result of damage to your vehicle or injuries sustained to you, the passengers or pedestrians, while Medical Insurance can protect you against high medical expenses, hospitalisation expenses and much more.
Additional Reading: Everything You Need To Know About Health Insurance
While you’re still probably apprehensive about getting all this done before going on such a short getaway, keep in mind that the duration of your trip doesn’t really matter. What matters is that you’re prepared at all times and you have something to fall back on regardless of whether you’re jaunting around the world or just walking down the road to the grocery store.
After all, prevention is certainly better than cure.
If you’re looking for great financial products that can sort you out before a holiday or during the course of your life in general, then you’ve certainly come to the right place.