Secrets to a seamless and budget-friendly holiday

Planning a holiday is exciting, but with so much information available online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Marlee Hawkins, a local travel expert with a decade of experience and a passport with stamps from 51 countries, offers some advice to help your trip run smoother and reduce surprises along the way.

“Effective destination research is crucial,” Marlee explained. “You don’t want to arrive only to find out you missed out on key experiences because it needed to be pre-booked.”

“Japan is extremely popular right now due to the strength of our dollar against the Japanese yen, so making advance bookings is essential, especially for Universal Studios’ Fast Passes and Shibuya Sky tickets.”

Flexibility with dates can save you money, and as a travel agent, it’s the first question Marlee asks.

“If you are limited by school holidays, leaving a few days before they start can be a game changer,” she said.

Marlee frequently travels during the off-season as, “you can get amazing discounts on things like Caribbean Cruising and Fiji Island hopping, it can also mean fewer crowds.”

Being an early bird will pay off when it comes to tours, cruises, and luxury hotels, with companies such as Scenic offering free flights and significant discounts on their packages.

“Always pack essentials like medication and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case your checked luggage doesn’t make it – even your bathing suit if swimming is on the cards!”

Speaking of misplaced luggage, Marlee recommends the Apple Tag. While it won’t retrieve your bag, it will help locate it when airline staff can’t, offering peace of mind.

If you are traveling with friends, Marlee suggests downloading the navigation app called “What Three Words” app in case you lose each other, and “Splitwise” to keep track of expenses.

Got a long layover? “Look into airport lounges and take a shower, and better yet – consider a credit card like the AMEX Platinum that gives you plenty of great travel perks and lounge privileges.”

Managing money wisely is key to a stress-free trip. “I keep one of my ATM cards hidden away separately, locked via my banking app just in case my wallet is lost or my card is compromised.”

Marlee also suggests using the Wise card for its low fees, competitive exchange rates, and easy foreign currency transfers. “I had a really positive experience on my recent South America trip when an ATM in Chile failed me – Wise saved the day,” she said.

Finally, don’t forget Travel Insurance, and to check the DFAT website for Visa requirements, Medical and Safety Information about your destination.

Marlee, the travel enthusiast behind Before You Book, is a mobile, independent travel agent based in Docklands. Before You Book is a proud member of Envoyage (part of Flight Centre Travel Group) and an accredited member of IATA, ATAS, and AFTA.

Follow Marlee on Instagram for travel inspiration and special offers every Monday @beforeyoubook_travel •