Plan Your Own Trip

While package tours offer greater convenience, some travelers may find it more rewarding to plan their own visits to overseas destinations. By designing your own itineraries and making your own arrangements on air tickets, accommodation and transportation, you get more freedom to decide which sights to see. Here are a few tips on organizing your own overseas trips.

• Know the exchange rate of the country you are planning to visit. Will food and lodging be more or less expensive than they would be in Hong Kong? If the costs are prohibitive, consider visiting countries with favorable exchange rates compared to the Hong Kong dollar.
• Be flexible with travel dates to save on flights. Booking a vacation in "off months" can also offer significant savings.
• Shop for the best deals. Sometimes purchasing airfare and lodging together can offer significant savings.
• The Hong Kong government recommends residents making overseas trips to obtain travel insurance to gain protection for medical emergencies and accidents.
• Pack smart so you do not have to stock up on expensive items upon your arrival, like film, special clothes and toiletries.
• When exchanging currencies, compare the rates offered by banks, hotels and airports to ensure you get the best deal.
• Be careful with cabs, etc. Find out the going rate of activities, food and cab fare, and do not be afraid to bargain. Visitors will likely have to pay more than locals, but it pays to have an idea of what is fair or you could end up paying significantly more. Research the local public transportation to get around town and to and from the airport. Many cities offer weekly passes for buses and underground trains for significant savings.
• Consider playing it by ear. If you have not pre-booked your accommodation, it is generally less expensive to plan for your lodging after arrival, so you can cut out the fees paid to travel agents and websites.

Source: GovHK, Travel Industry Compensation Fund Management Board