5 Tips to Keep Holiday Preparations Abroad Frugal and Comfortable

01 July 2025

Overseas holidays are often seen as a time to unwind and explore new places. However, a truly enjoyable holiday is not just about choosing a dream destination. What matters most is how to enjoy the trip without stress, without overbudget, and without unexpected obstacles such as incomplete documents or running out of funds while travelling.

In fact, many people experience stress after a holiday, not because the trip wasn't fun, but because the planning was poor. Good planning includes more than just tickets and accommodation, from budget management, travel documents, to emergency fund preparedness

In order for your holiday to run smoothly and free from unexpected obstacles, there are several important things that need to be considered from the start.

Here are 5 tips for planning an overseas holiday to make it more organised, comfortable and enjoyable:

1.   Deciding on the Right Destination and Time

The first step is to decide where and when you will go. Try to decide whether you want to explore a modern city like Tokyo or enjoy European history in Prague.

Also, choose the right time. For Japan, early July is a good time as there are many summer festivals going on and it's not yet the busy school holiday season. Use a calendar and check the seasons in the destination country. For example, avoid travelling to Europe in winter if you are not prepared for the extreme temperatures.

2.   Plan a Budget and Start Saving Now

Budgeting is the key to having a fun holiday without burning a hole in your pocket. Calculate the total estimated expenses for tickets, accommodation, meals, local transport, and emergency fund.

Start saving gradually, because by setting a holiday fund goal, estimated costs, time period, and regular savings value, you can save disciplinedly every month and reach your holiday target without having to go into debt.

3.   Book Tickets and Accommodation Early

Book tickets and accommodation in advance. Usually, ticket prices will be cheaper if booked 3-6 months in advance. For accommodation, utilise online platforms to compare prices and read reviews. Also, make sure to choose a strategic location so you don't spend a lot of money and time on transport.

4.   Prepare Important Documents and Supplies

Visa and passport are the main things for international travelling. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your departure date. For visa applications, additional documents such as bank references and e-statements are usually required.

5.   Design Your Itinerary and Connections at Your Destination

Make a daily itinerary for your holiday. Determine the main activities of each day, tourist sites, places to eat and transport used. Although flexible, an itinerary can help you be more prepared and save time.

Don't forget to prepare your internet connection abroad. You can rent a portable WiFi or buy a local SIM card. Some countries also have extensive public internet connections, but make sure you keep your data safe.

Plan Holiday Fund with 360 Digital Wealth Feature in M2U ID App

Maybank Indonesia provides convenience in planning and managing finances as a whole through M2U ID App (mobile banking). Through the 360 Digital Wealth feature, you can easily monitor your daily finances, set financial goals, and make more targeted holiday fund plans.

This initiative is part of Maybank Indonesia's commitment to help customers achieve their financial goals more wisely and planned, including in terms of planning holidays without the need to be burdened with financial problems in the future.

With the Set Financial Plan feature in 360 Digital Wealth on M2U ID App, Maybank Indonesia encourages people to start getting used to setting aside special funds regularly according to the desired target and time period. Whether it's for a year-end holiday, overseas trip, or simply a staycation with family, everything can be planned more disciplined and realistic. This feature will help you plan and monitor your progress. Everything can be done from the palm of your hand.

In addition, through M2U ID App, you can easily:

1. Create a bank reference letter via M2U ID App for visa purposes: Bank Reference Guide
2. Access and download e-statements via M2U ID App to show transaction history: e-Statement Guide
3. Make e-billing payments via M2U ID App for online passport and visa applications without the need to queue: e-Billing Guide
4. Apply for a Maybank Credit Card for easy transaction needs abroad: Maybank Credit Card Application Guide

All these processes can be done in one application, making document preparation much more efficient.

With careful planning and technological assistance such as M2U ID App, holidays abroad can be precious moments without burden. You can enjoy every corner of a new city, culinary specialities, and different cultures without having to worry about finances.

Download M2U ID now and start planning your dream holiday trip!