Summer travel season is just around the corner and it’s only getting more and more expensive to see the world. If budget is important to you then try saving major buck with some helpful tips. Your wallet deserves a break as well, so try to save a few bucks this summer by avoiding some extra expenses.

Airport parking fees

Airports can be some of the most expensive places you’ll visit on vacation. Airline baggage fees, high foods costs and now add in insanely high parking rates and you’re already breaking the bank before you even leave town.

On average on site parking at airports hovers around $20 per day, which can really add up. It’s time to get resourceful in finding a cheaper alternative to parking on site. Many hotels offer free parking with one night’s stay, so search around for some great deals.

Many people will just find a ride to the airport and leave your car at home. Car services like Uber and Lyft can be very convenient for situations like this. You of course can always ask a friend for a ride, calling in a favor is a great way to save money.

If parking at the airport is your only option then search for discount lots around the airport that will generally be half the price of on-site lots.

Baggage Fees

Airlines now charge insanely high baggage fees and even higher penalties for overweight bags, so make sure you pack smart. It’s good practice to weigh your bags before you go to the airport. Make note of the baggage restrictions and see how much a bag can weigh before they charge you an overweight fee. Generally the limit is between 50-60 pounds per bag. Most airlines charge between $30-50 per bag, so it usually saves you money to carry on more than you check. Reputable airlines offer two free carry-ons for free, so take advantage of their generosity. Some budget airlines charge for every add-on like carry-on bags and choosing your seat.

Hotel Fees

Hotels are picking up on this ala carte style of charging guests so get ready for tons of hidden fees next time you stay at a hotel or resort. Of course the mini-bar is where they get you, steer clear of in room dining in general. Hotels are now charging for early check-ins, holding luggage at front desk and late checkouts, so be aware that they will try and squeeze every cent out of you.

Eating Out Constantly

Eating out on vacation is where a good portion of money ends up being wasted. Try cooking or preparing one meal a day and see how much you save overall. Maybe you will be swayed to eat two meals a day on the cheap and one nice restaurant meal.

Rental Car Expenses

Rental cars often end up being huge wastes of money. If you are going to be at a resort the entire time, why rent a car. Most resorts offer a free shuttle service and cabs are usually so cheap.

If you must rent a car, make sure you aren’t wasting money on expenses that are not needed. Your insurance should cover your car, so avoid the rental car insurance; it’s a scam. Pay with a credit card, as they will insure most purchases and services.

Peak Travel times

The best way to save big on summer vacations is avoiding the busiest times. Try and fly out on a Tuesday and return on a Tuesday, Wednesday or a Saturday. Avoid holidays like the plague; they are the most expensive time to travel and often the busiest.

Save money all over the place if you just keep your eyes open and are ready for the curveballs that will be tossed your way.

Tourists will be required to wear digital wristbands in Thailand. This will enable the Thai government to easily track their health status while touring the said Southeast Asian country.

To sever possible COVID-19 transmission, Thailand plans to require would-be tourists to wear digital wristbands while staying in the country. This mandate will allow the government to track their whereabouts including their health as they visit Thailand’s different traveler destinations.

Last month, the said Southeast Asian nation opened its borders to a group of Chinese visitors—the first ever arrival since April when Thailand halted inbound travels to control COVID-19 transmission. The country has been doing quite well in the battle against the novel coronavirus. Hence, it has been reluctant to reopen its doors to visitors wanting to explore its various tourist spots.

The recent October group of Shanghai tourists were automatically required to undergo a 14-day quarantine period, especially since they planned to stay within the country for a month. They were also relegated to a government-accredited hotel.

Nevertheless, aside from the automatic quarantine period, recent Thailand updates assert that the nation now plans to mandate all approved, incoming tourists to wear digital wristbands, “Smart Bands” as they are called. These devices will help the government track the tourists, particularly their health, as they visit the different places within the country.

The said digital device measures the body temperature of the wearer which will, then, notify nearby health centers. Tourists who wear digital wristbands will also be able to ask for help should they ever get lost while touring the country.

Not all would-be visitors will be able to enter Thailand, however. At present, only visitors from low-risk areas will be given a Special Tourist Visa. This visa can be obtained by paying 2,000 Baht ($64.25).

Additionally, a would-be tourist needs to have a “fit-to-fly certificate” from a certified doctor, a negative PCR COVID-19 test result, and a health insurance policy of at least $100,000 that will cover COVID-19 treatment within the country.

If you plan to travel to Thailand, you must be able to secure these requirements before buying your ticket. See to it that you will be coming from a country that is enlisted as a low-risk area by the Thailand government. You should also obtain the necessary “fit-to-fly certificate” from your doctor, have a negative PCR COVID-19 test at least 72 hours before your flight, and an insurance policy of the above-stated amount before you can apply for the said Special Tourist Visa.

As of writing, Thailand has only less than 4,000 total COVID-19 cases, a far cry from the overall COVID-19 cases worldwide that has already reached more than 46 million. Hence, the Thai government strictly monitors tourists who are allowed to enter their borders. The planned mandate to require tourists to wear digital wristbands while staying in the country will greatly help control possible COVID-19 transmission which may be brought on by the gradual reopening of its borders.

According to some smart people Norway is the world’s happiest country followed by Denmark, Iceland and Switzerland. SO apparently being freezing cold 9 months out of the year equals happiness. I have no idea what makes a country happy but I know they must make nice places to visit. Let’s explore the happiest countries in the world and see why we should check them out.

How do you judge a country’s’ happiness? Well the smart people at the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) have figured some way out. Working for the United Nations the SDSN used tons of data and statistics to come to their findings. The main factors used were Happiness, Caring, Freedom, Honesty, Health, Income, Generosity and Good Governance.

Sweden

Scandinavian countries were well represented on this list with all their countries placing in the top 10. Sweden ties for 9^th place and is such a wonderful place to visit. Stockholm has some amazing attractions and interesting architecture. Come for the Scenery and stay for their happiness.

Australia

Tied for 9^th place is the happy people down under. Throw another shrimp on the barbie and drink a Fosters with some real happy folk. Check out the amazing Great Barrier Reef and scuba dive with thousands of animal varieties. Australia is a wonderful place to visit and see why everyone is so happy.

New Zealand

Australia’s neighbor and rival is number 8 on the happiness list. The kiwis are a boisterous and happy people known for being welcoming and helpful. The landscape in New Zealand is second to none and offers epic views at every turn. Incredible sailing and waters ports dominate the beaches and hikes and white water rafting are inland favorites.

Canada

We all knew Canadians were a happy people and they rank 7^th on this list. Celebrating their 150^th anniversary as a nation this year, there should be plenty of celebrations going on.   Check out Prince Edward Island where the independence from Great Britain was first discussed.

Netherlands

The Dutch are a happy people and their country is one of the best to visit. Celebrating their rich history, The Danish people have plenty to be happy about. Check out the Van Gogh museum or take a tour in the Heineken Brewery. Check out their famed marijuana coffee shops or stroll down the beautiful canals.

Finland

Scandinavia represents again with Finland and the 5^th spot. A favorite winter sports destination, Finland is as beautiful during the summer. Check out their wonderful lakes and take in some beautiful landscapes.

Switzerland

The Swiss are always neutral but you shouldn’t be neutral about visiting the fourth happiest country on Earth. Enjoy the amazing mountains and outdoor activities in this natural playground. The Swiss have been at the top of this list since it’s inception.

Iceland

The island nation off on its own in the Atlantic Ocean is the third happiest country. Outdoor activities, the Northern Lights and some incredible thermal pools make Iceland an awesome destination. Reykjavik is an international city with huge attractions and natural beauty, outside the city offers the most intense experiences.

Denmark

Number two on the list is the happy people of Denmark. Copenhagen is my favorite European city and it is a must visit. Check out the tall ships and the cute coastal architecture all around Copenhagen.

Norway

The happiest country on the planet is Norway. The Scandinavian country has the happiest people and some of the most breathtaking views on the planet. All you have to do is see one fjord in person and you’ll understand natural beauty. The people of Norway are healthier and happier than anywhere on Earth. See why everyone is so happy and experience it for yourself.