Financial
Dollars & $ense - Vacation Planning 101
Here are some handy tips on what to know before you book your next adventure
T
he calendar says it’s still winter, but
many of us are dreaming of spring
break or summer excursions. Have
you been surfing the Internet for that next
great trip idea or deal?
Travel doesn’t have to break the bank.
There are ways to save while having an
adventure and creating memories. Here are
some ideas to make travel planning easier
and spending your hard-earned dollars right
where you want them.
Budget basics.
What can you afford? And when can you
afford it? After your monthly expenses are
paid, what can you put towards your vaca-
tion dreams? Can you book now or do you
need to save and go next year? Jump start a
travel fund by skipping gourmet coffee and
meals out. Once you know where you’re
going, create a spending plan for your trip.
How much will you need per person, per
day? Factor in food, lodging, transportation,
tips and souvenirs.
Your fashion consciousness may want to
bring seven pairs of shoes, but if you over-
pack for an airline flight, you may
encounter overweight baggage charges or
fees for an additional bag. Know the weight
restrictions and baggage allowances before
you head to the airport.
Don’t forget discounts.
Consider Driving to your destina-
tion.
An organization you already belong to
may offer discounts on airfare, rental cars,
accommodations, or admission to museums
and other sites. AARP, AAA or various fre-
quent flier memberships are just a few
examples.
Often driving saves you money on trans-
portation (especially when traveling with a
family). Driving may also negate the neces-
sity of a car rental and eliminates worries
Lighten up.
A family wage, and the benefits that go with it, not only strength-
ens families, but also allows our communities to become
stronger, more cohesive, and more responsive to their citizens'
needs.
Our family wage agenda reflects our commitment to people
working in the building trades, and to workers everywhere. In this
small way, we are doing our part to help people achieve the
American Dream. This dream that workers can hold dear regard-
less of race, color, national origin, gender, creed, or religious
beliefs.
The Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters
Representing more than 5.000 construction workers in Oregon State.
Do you want to know more about becoming a
Union carpenter?
Some people like to travel in a group;
others like to plan their own trip. If you
think you’d like to join a tour, find out
what’s included and what isn’t. Airfare?
Ground transportation? Tipping? Meals?
You’ll need to budget for non-inclusive
items.
Pack any extra batteries you might need,
especially if you’re heading overseas. Buy-
ing batteries in a foreign country is shock-
ingly expensive.
Stop the sniffles.
Von D. Bailey
Funeral Director
20 NE 14th Avenue
Portland, OR 97232
503-232-4111
Fax 503-231-1586
von.bailey@sci-us.com
It is our primary goal as a
labor union to better the
lives of all people working
in the building trades
through advocacy, civil
demonstration, and the
long-held belief that work-
ers deserve a "family wage" - fair pay for an honest day's work.
To tour or not to tour?
Power up.
Caldwell’s, Hennessey, Goetsch
& McGee Funeral Home
We honor the many
accomplishments of African
Americans.
about overweight luggage charges. You may
be surprised about how many magical desti-
nations are close at hand. For longer trips
you may be able to experience more of the
country scenery that you miss when you fly.
And as an added advantage; driving from
home saves you from extended waiting time
at the airports.
Bring your own over-the-counter medi-
cines for a cold or headache so you won’t be
gouged in the wallet for medicine you’re
unfamiliar with. And of course, don’t forget
any prescription meds you’ll need. If you
are even able to get your prescription filled,
it might be very expensive at an out-of-net-
See FINANCIAL on page 11
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2-1-12
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CCB # 101233
We are an equal opportunity employer and request
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2-1-12
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