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Your summer vacation should be full of sunshine, relaxation, and unforgettable memories, not unexpected bills. But even the best-planned trip can come with surprise expenses that throw your budget off course. From hidden fees to unexpected detours, staying financially prepared can make all the difference. Here are some tips.

1. Budget Beyond the Basics

Most travelers account for big-ticket items like transportation, lodging, and meals, but it’s the smaller, sneakier charges that can add up fast. Hotel parking fees, resort charges, baggage costs, or even a few extra snacks at the airport can tax your travel budget.

Tip: Add a 15% to 20% buffer to your travel budget to cover surprise expenses and give yourself some peace of mind.

2. Watch Out for Hidden Travel Fees

That "deal" on a hotel might come with resort fees. Your budget airline flight could charge extra for everything from seat selection to overhead carry-ons. Considering a cruise package? They often leave out port fees, gratuities, or onboard activities.

Tip: Always read the fine print before booking and compare total costs, not just base prices.

3. Prepare for Transportation Surprises

Whether you're flying, renting a car, or road-tripping, leave a little flex space in your budget. Gas prices fluctuate, flat tires happen, and flight changes can mean added expense.

As a member with American Heritage, you can enjoy discounts when renting a car through Enterprise Rent-A-Car®, Alamo®, or National Car Rental®. Click here to learn more about this membership discount.

Tip: If you're renting a car, check to see if your personal insurance or credit card covers rental insurance. Also, fill up the tank before you return it to avoid costly refueling charges.

4. Avoid Roaming Charges and Foreign Transaction Fees

Staying connected on vacation is important, but using your phone abroad or relying on credit cards that charge foreign transaction fees can leave you with post-trip regret.

And when it comes to security, be sure to add a travel notification to any cards you plan to use while on vacation, especially if you'll be out of the country. For your American Heritage debit or credit cards, you can do this through Online or Mobile Teller.

Tip: Check with your mobile provider about international data plans or consider an eSIM digital SIM card. If travelling internationally, opt for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

5. Plan for Emergencies

Illness, injury, or weather delays can extend your trip or force a last-minute change. It's wise to have a financial cushion and an emergency-only credit card ready just in case. Just as you have protection for the unexpected at home through an emergency fund, think of this emergency-only credit card as that option for when you're traveling.

Tip: A dedicated credit card with a solid limit and a low rate can serve as your financial safety net on vacation.

6. Save Smarter for Next Year's Trip

If you're already dreaming about next summer, it's never too early to start saving. Here at American Heritage, we make it easy.

Vacation Club Accounts let you set aside money year-round for your summer getaway. There’s no minimum balance required, and you can make up to four withdrawals a year. Enjoy peace of mind without tapping into your everyday funds.

Tip: Estimate your trip costs now, then divide that total by the number of weeks left until your departure. That's your weekly savings goal.

7. Make the Most of Digital Tools

From budgeting apps to mobile banking, digital tools can help you track your spending in real time, which is especially helpful when you're traveling. Be sure to turn on notifications, whether through email or eAlerts, to be notified if any unauthorized charges are made with your accounts.

Tip: Download the American Heritage Mobile App for easy account access, mobile deposits, and alerts that help you stay on top of your finances from anywhere.

8. Travel Smarter With a Credit Card That Gives Back

American Heritage credit cards offer great rewards, low rates, and fewer fees, and are built to work for everyday purchases and travel. Even better, every purchase gives back—American Heritage donates $0.01 to The Kids-N-Hope Foundation for every swipe.

• With our Cash Reward Mastercard®, you'll earn 2% cash back* on travel and dining, including airfare, hotels, and ride shares.
• With our Platinum Preferred Mastercard®, you earn 1 ScoreCard® Reward Point for every $1 you spend.
•  And with our Platinum Classic Mastercard®, you'll enjoy a low annual percentage rate and receive ScoreCard® Rewards.

Tip: Use your American Heritage Mastercard for large vacation purchases to earn rewards while supporting a great cause.

Bonus Tip: Save Even More With Credit Union Travel

As an American Heritage member, you can save when staying at 1.2 million brand name hotels worldwide through Credit Union Travel. Plus, when you make your reservation using your American Heritage debit or credit card, you’ll receive 5% back. Add these extra savings and rewards when booking your next hotel stay!

Travel Smarter With American Heritage

From budgeting tools to flexible savings accounts and credit cards that reward you, American Heritage Credit Union has everything you need to travel smarter and worry less.