Category Archives: Vacation and Traveling Finances

How to Avoid Summer Vacation Scams

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Summer is upon us, and after a long year – most of us are more than ready for a vacation. However, while we all look forward to that long-awaited break, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks that can arise – such as summer vacation scams.

Scammers have developed sophisticated tricks to exploit travelers, especially during high-demand periods like the summer vacation season. Here’s how you can avoid being their next victim, and ensure a relaxing and trouble-free vacation.

Research Thoroughly

It’s no surprise many of us are looking online for travel deals — especially as inflation continues. According to a new McAfee Report, 56% of travelers say they’re using the internet to search for travel bargains, with 35% saying they would try new booking sites in order to snag a good price.

But in the world of the digital age, it’s easy to fall for ‘too good to be true’ deals or discounts when you’re eager for a break.

Make sure you are booking through a reputable travel agency or website. Look for reviews and ratings of the service or property you are interested in. Keep in mind, scam websites can often look quite legitimate – so make sure to look for secure URLs that begin with ‘https’ and be cautious of those asking for a bank transfer as the only payment method.

Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers

One common scam tactic involves sending unsolicited emails, texts, or even calls offering unbeatable vacation deals. These offers may look like they’re from well-known travel agencies or airlines, complete with logos and official looking email addresses. For instance, you may receive an email stating that you’ve “won a free trip” or “you’ve been selected for a heavily discounted luxury vacation.”

Be particularly cautious if these messages include a sense of urgency, such as “limited time offer” or “claim within the next 24 hours.” These are red flags that the offer could be a scam. Instead of clicking on any links or replying to these unsolicited offers, go directly to the travel company’s official website or contact them directly to verify the legitimacy of the offer. This extra step can save you from falling into a well-laid scam trap.

Use Secure Payment Methods

Scammers often ask for payment methods that are hard to trace, such as wire transfers or prepaid gift cards. Always use secure payment methods when booking your vacation. Credit cards offer the best protection against fraud, as they have built-in safeguards and allow you to dispute charges if you become a victim of a scam. At First Financial, we offer zero fraud liability for all our credit cards so you can have added backup on all your purchases. You can even earn perks like points for travel-related purchases when you use the First Financial Cash Plus Credit Card.*

Double Check Rental Listings

Renting a private home or apartment for your vacation can provide a more personal and unique experience than a hotel. However, it also comes with its risks. Scammers often list properties that they don’t own or that don’t even exist. To protect yourself, never pay outside of the platform you are booking through and always check for multiple photos and reviews of the property.

Get Everything in Writing

Avoid verbal agreements and get all details, including the total cost, cancellation policies, and what the package includes – in writing. This provides a record and helps you avoid unpleasant surprises during your vacation.

Consider a Travel Agent or Insurance

In an era of DIY travel planning, it’s easy to overlook the benefits of working with a professional travel agent. Reputable travel agents have the expertise and insider knowledge to help you navigate the vast sea of vacation options. They have established relationships with hotels, airlines, and tour operators – which means they can often offer packages and deals that you wouldn’t find on your own.

More importantly, a reliable travel agent provides an additional layer of security against potential scams. They vet the companies they work with, ensuring the legitimacy of your accommodations, flights, and other travel arrangements. It’s also important to consider getting travel insurance to cover unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies. Make sure to read the policy carefully to know what it covers.

Summer vacations should be about relaxation, fun, and making memories, not dealing with scams. While the tips above can help you avoid most scams, always remember that if something seems too good to be true – it probably is.

Stay safe and travel smart with First Financial. Let us help you navigate your financial journey with ease and security. Check out our First Scoop blog for more fraud prevention tips.

Happy travels!

*Your First Financial Visa® Cash Plus Credit Card will earn cash back based on your eligible purchase transactions. The cash back will be applied to your current credit card balance on a quarterly basis and be shown cumulatively on your billing statement. Unless you are participating in a limited time promotional offer, you will earn 1.5% cash back based upon eligible purchases each quarter. APR varies up to 18%, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. This APR is for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.

Money Saving Ideas for Your End of Summer Staycation

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If you’re trying to make the best of the last few weeks of summer while vacationing at home and saving money – keep reading. With a bit of creativity and an open mind, spending your time off at home can still be just as fun and just as rewarding. Plus, you won’t have airfare or hotel bills to pay!

Turn Your House into a Hotel

You can enjoy the experience of staying in a hotel right at home. Indulge in hot chocolate at night with a fresh baked cookie, create a mini bar in your bedroom, and leave a folded luxurious robe and new pair of slippers out for yourself and enjoy a bubble bath. To add to the vacation resort feel, turn on the spa station on Pandora or find a relaxing music station on TV and keep it playing in the background. You can also buy tropical beach or spa scented candles or essential oils to increase the resort getaway feel, without ever leaving your house.

Around the World Theme Night Dinners

Convert your kitchen into a foreign destination with a themed dinner – a different one for every night of the week, if you so choose. Research the cuisine of each country you pick, play cultural music in the background, and serve drinks, appetizers, dinner and dessert all from the nationality of the day. To add to this idea, you might choose to get a bit competitive with other family members. Have each person make a certain dish, set a time limit, and vote on the best one!

Backyard Camping

Put up a tent in your backyard, and have a family camping experience equipped with sleeping bags, flashlights, cook on the grill, tell ghost stories, and make s’mores. You can also still have just as much fun with a living room camping experience with sleeping bags and flashlights too!

Hold a Yoga Retreat

This can also take place in your living room or outside in the backyard with yoga mats, infused water, and relaxing music. Search on YouTube or Google for simple poses and how-to videos to help guide you.

Watch a Broadway Show – Virtually

Did you know that https://www.broadwayhd.com/ includes a free 7 day trial? There are also monthly and annual subscription service options if you want to watch them all!

Hold a Movie Marathon

Rent movies or create a line-up of ones you’ve wanted to see but haven’t had the time for. Stock up on popcorn and other movie theater style snacks. If the weather is nice, you could even hold an outdoor marathon using a projector and screen and watch from the backyard.

Get Creative

Reconnect with your inner child (or your actual children), and hold a drawing or painting class. You will probably need to order some supplies in advance (paint, canvas, drawing pencils). The most important thing to remember is to be creative. If the weather is nice, paint or draw outside! If your creations turn out better than you hoped – you’ll even have new artwork to display inside.

Go Outside

Visit a local park, beach, go for a bike ride – just get outdoors. If you plan to spend the day outside, bring supplies like sunscreen, snacks, water, and other necessities.

Learn a Skill

Was there ever something you have always wanted to learn but just never found the time? Maybe you’ve always wanted to focus more on baking or cake decorating, grow a garden, etc. See if you can find a local class during your staycation and make your dream a reality.

Assist a Charity

There are many charities and non-profit organizations who can use your help no matter the season. Seek out one that’s local to you and spend the day volunteering. You’ll feel internally rewarded!

Travel Virtually

You might not be able to get on a plane and tour world landmarks or go on an island getaway right now, but you can travel virtually. If you’re a museum enthusiast, many museums around the globe also are featuring virtual online tours. Zoos, aquariums, and even theme parks have virtual experiences too – get out your laptop or tablet and start searching for the spots that interest you the most.

Article Source: TowerFCU.org

NJ Day Trip Ideas for a Local Staycation in Summer 2020

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As summer starts to come to an end, are you realizing you won’t get to vacation like usual this year but still want to experience something out of the ordinary and save money at the same time? Check out the following New Jersey day trip landmark ideas for a day of summer family fun (during a pandemic).

Asbury Park Boardwalk

Asbury Park’s boardwalk includes a variety of shops, places to eat, and historic spots (such as Convention Hall). Don’t miss the iconic Asbury Park pedal boats on Wesley Lake either! Just past the pedal boats, head into Ocean Grove – a charming little beachfront town right next to Asbury Park.

Battleship New Jersey

Located in Camden, if you’ve never seen the 887-foot-long battleship in person – you might want to consider taking a drive. The ship is over 11 stories high and is one of the longest battleships ever built, as well as the most decorated in the country. The ship was closed during the pandemic but is now open everyday through Labor Day. Be sure to check it out!

Cape May Lighthouse

This lighthouse is 161 years old, and once you climb 199 steps – you’ll get amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, and Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal. This is a sight located within Lower Township’s Cape May Point State Park that you won’t want to miss!

The Delaware River

If it’s a nice day and you’re looking to take a scenic drive – think about driving along the Delaware River in Hunterdon County through Lambertville, Frenchtown, Milford and Stockton. Don’t miss the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge for a gorgeous view, and outdoor dining in Lambertville and New Hope.

The Great Falls of the Passaic River

Why drive all the way to Niagara Falls when the Great Falls of the Passaic is practically right in your own backyard in Paterson? The Great Falls of the Passaic are part of the National Historic Landmark District. Park grounds are currently open, however the welcome center is still temporarily closed. Learn more here.

Lucy the Elephant

Located in Margate City on Atlantic Avenue – you can’t miss the 6 story, 90-ton elephant that boasts a 140 year old history. Perfect for keeping your social distance, Lucy the Elephant is one of the oldest roadside attractions in the country! Guided tours are also currently taking place, with proper protocols like face masks while inside or in the gift shop.

Palisades Parkway

Located in Alpine – you can take a scenic 42-mile drive along the Hudson River from the George Washington Bridge to the Bear Mountain Bridge. You’ll get to see the New York City skyline, and there are three different lookout areas to stop and get out to appreciate the gorgeous views. Find out more here.

Pinelands National Reserve

Located in South Jersey and touching 7 counties, you’re bound to hit a section of one million acres of berry farms, historic villages, forests and wetlands – plus fresh air. Find out more at https://www.nps.gov/pine/index.htm

Red Mill Museum

Located in Clinton in Hunterdon County, the Red Mill is a NJ icon which sits on the Raritan River and was built in 1810. While some of the grounds might be temporarily closed, the Red Mill is featuring live outdoor concerts and car shows on various dates. Learn more here. In town you’ll also find shops, eateries, and tree lined streets.

With great day trip ideas like these – you can hit them all during your end of summer New Jersey staycation!

Article Source: Mycentraljersey.com

Check Yourself Before You Rec Yourself – Tips for RV Purchases

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It is fair to say that summer 2020 is also shaping up to be…unconventional. It may seem as though your summer fun is quickly becoming summer none, but a solution may be in reach. Enter: A recreational vehicle. Whether it be a boat, an RV, or even an ATV – summer excitement may just be on the horizon.

How do you decide which one is right for you and your family?  Do you want to take to the road, the water, or forested trails? Here’s a little insight on this thrilling (but important) decision.

RVs

Picture this: You and your family are on the open road. Your destination is ahead of you. Your children laugh as they play a card game at the table behind you. Best of all, you don’t have to stop for bathroom breaks.

A recent study found that RV vacations cost much less than other travel, even when factoring in fuel prices and RV ownership cost. According to the study, there are cost savings of between 21-64% for a four-person travel party, while a two-person travel party may save 8-53%. That’s some serious savings if you do it right. You can instead spend that money on food, experiences, and souvenirs from your trip.

Before purchasing an RV, be sure to do your research. There are multiple packages and floor plans that may not be right for every family. Be sure to shop around to find the RV that fits your needs the best.

Keep in mind that, like all motor vehicles, an RV will also require maintenance and upkeep. This is an expense that must be factored into RV ownership.

Boats

Did you know, Vitamin D deficiency affects 50% of the population worldwide? What’s an excellent source of Vitamin D? Sunlight.

There are many ways to get under the sun, but one of the most fun is boating. Not only that, but taking to the water can be as relaxing or as exhilarating as you want. Gently float along soaking up that Vitamin D, or test your balance on a wakeboard. The possibilities are endless.

2019 saw a 6% increase in the number of people who purchased personal watercrafts, bringing the U.S. total to approximately 73,000 new boats on the water.

The next logical question, “what type of boat is right for me?” There are so many options you can choose from. Do you want a sailboat or one with a motor? If you opt for a motor, what horsepower should you choose? What size boat is perfect for your needs? Will you take your boat to the lake, river, ocean or all of the above? Consider all of these factors before purchasing a boat.

Four-Wheelers (ATVs)

Gritty. Dirty. Fun. Four-Wheelers can be a major source of excitement, but they can also be dangerous if you are not careful. Before purchasing an ATV, be sure to do your research and brush up on ATV safety. There are also other things to consider – like your four-wheeler brand, size, and tire size. Fun fact: At low speeds, a four-wheeler’s wheels move in opposite directions to make parking and maneuvering easier.

What will you do with your Recreational Vehicle Loan?

There are many things to consider when purchasing a recreational vehicle, and we are here to help with one of the most important – financing. We offer recreational vehicle loans that make funding your summer fun (and beyond) more accessible than ever, no matter which type you choose. We’re your credit union, contact us today if you have questions about RV loans – or you can learn more and apply online 24/7!*

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Not all applicants will qualify, subject to credit approval. Additional terms & conditions may apply. Actual rate may vary based on credit worthiness and term. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a First Financial RV, ATV, Boat or Motorcycle loan and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan. Federally insured by NCUA.

Financial and Preparedness Tips for Summer Roadtrips

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Amidst the Coronavirus pandemic, as bigger trips get cancelled and flights are limited – some may be considering road trips to other states as this year’s family summer vacation. While the CDC still urges limited travel, those who decide to take a roadtrip should consider the following before hitting the road:

  • What’s actually open? Planning is especially important this summer because many state parks and businesses in certain states may still be closed. Do your research ahead of time.
  • Face masks – Bring one for every passenger, and wear them in public. Even places where it looks like social distancing is in force can become crowded in a hurry.
  • Call ahead – Be sure to confirm any potential restrictions for where you are traveling.
  • Call the hotel – If you plan to stay overnight at a hotel, call ahead to make sure it is still open and will have rooms available.
  • Stop early and often for fuel and breaks, just in case. Check online to see which state-run highway rest stops are open and which facilities are operational.

Auto Maintenance Tips for Traveling by Car:

  • Bring your own protective equipment – This includes gloves for pumping your own gas, paper towels, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper. Some gas stations/rest stops may be limited in what they have available, so be sure to bring your own just in case.
  • Prepare in advance – Be sure to stay up to date on oil changes and have your tires checked before you go. Also check your windshield washer fluid level, coolant, light bulbs, battery life and so forth. Book a service appointment for your vehicle prior to leaving.
  • Do you have a roadside assistance plan? If not, you may want to enroll in one before your trip.

Packing and Preparedness Suggestions:

  • Don’t overload your car, and store the heaviest items low (or opt for a rooftop cargo carrier).
  • Be sure to bring a car phone charger, basic tools, road flares, a flashlight, spare tire and changing kit, and jumper cables.

Did you know that First Financial’s mechanical repair coverage can help you limit out-of-pocket costs should you ever have a covered breakdown? Be sure to check it out before you hit the road this summer. To research, compare, and buy Mechanical Repair Coverage, visit creditunion.forevercar.com/firstffcu or call 855.927.0224

*Mechanical Repair Coverage is provided and administered by Consumer Program Administrators, Inc. in all states except CA, where coverage is offered as insurance by Virginia Surety Company, Inc., in WA, where coverage is provided by National Product Care Company and administered by Consumer Program Administrators, Inc., in FL, LA and OK, where coverage is provided and administered by Automotive Warranty Services of Florida, Inc. (Florida License #60023 and Oklahoma License #44198051), all located at 175 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago Illinois 60604, 800.752.6265. This coverage is made available to you by CUNA Mutual Insurance Agency, Inc. In CA, where Mechanical Repair Coverage is offered as insurance (form MBIP 08/16), it is underwritten by Virginia Surety Company, Inc. Coverage varies by state. Be sure to read the Vehicle Service Contract or the Insurance Policy, which will explain the exact terms, conditions, and exclusions of this voluntary product.

Article Source: Patch.com