7 ways you're wasting money while traveling

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Seemingly tiny expenses can add up quickly when you’re traveling. And often it’s money that’s better spent elsewhere.

Here are seven expenses you can (and should) avoid paying for on your next trip.

Foreign transaction and ATM fees

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Paying to use your own money is often an infuriating consequence of traveling abroad, but it doesn't have to be. If you're still paying fees for making foreign transactions, it's time to switch banks—there are plenty that don't charge you to use your card overseas.

As for ATM fees, be wise about when and where you take out money. The best option is to visit your bank before you travel, when you can switch your currency virtually free of charge. But, if you do have to withdraw money at your destination, do it in as few transactions as possible. Withdrawing one large sum will save you from paying multiple fees on withdrawals. Just make sure to keep large amounts of cash in a safe spot.

Tip: Talk to someone—a real person, not a machine—at your bank before you leave. They could answer questions you didn’t even know you had about spending money abroad.

RELATED: How to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

Not checking prices after purchasing

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One common mistake people make when booking flights and lodging is thinking the task is done once they complete their purchase. Many airlines allow you to cancel your purchase for no charge within 24 hours, which means you can re-book your flight if the price drops during that period. This could potentially save you a lot of money.

Hotel prices can also drop after you book them, but it's harder to keep your eye on those fluctuations. The solution? Book with an online travel agent (OTA) site like Tingo, which automatically refunds you the difference if the rate drops below what you paid. Earning money back for doing absolutely nothing isn't a bad way to start a trip.

Tip: Many hotels don't tally rewards points for hotel bookings through Tingo, so if you're a loyal member you might want to keep an eye on the rate yourself.

Editor's note: Tingo is a member of the TripAdvisor Media Network, which also operates SmarterTravel.

Checking a bag

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Over-packing is a common problem, but in an age of increasing airline baggage fees, it's more than just inconvenient—it's costly. Traveling without checking a bag is relatively easy if you maximize your carry-on and personal item capabilities.

Sometimes it's as simple as choosing the right bag or changing your packing method. Other times it means cutting down on the amount of stuff you think you need.

Tip: Checking a bag on only one of your two flights can be considered a small victory. Don't decide to check one both ways just because you plan on bringing back some items that violate the 3-1-1 guidelines—just check your carry-on for the flight home.

RELATED: How to Travel Without a Bag

See the rest of the story at Business Insider