Budget Travel
Best Budget Airlines for Flying Within Europe (Hidden Fees Considered)
Sophie snagged a ten euro flight online – a steal! But at the airport, Ryanair charged twenty-five euros for her slightly oversized carry-on and another fifty-five euros because she hadn’t checked in online. Her cheap flight tripled in price. For budget European travel on airlines like EasyJet, Vueling, or Ryanair, always read the fine print. Check baggage size/weight limits meticulously, pre-book extras online (it’s cheaper), and verify airport locations, as budget airlines often use secondary airports further from the city. Compare the total cost, not just the initial fare.
Best Travel Backpack for Carry-On Only Trips
Mark wanted to explore Southeast Asia for a month without checked luggage headaches. He chose a 40-liter front-loading backpack, specifically designed to meet most airline carry-on size limits. Packing light using packing cubes, he easily fit everything he needed. He breezed through airports, skipped baggage claim waits, and navigated crowded buses effortlessly. A well-chosen carry-on backpack (like an Osprey Farpoint 40) offers freedom and saves money on fees, making it ideal for efficient, budget-conscious travel.
Best Ways to Find Cheap Accommodation (Beyond Airbnb/Hostels)
While backpacking Italy, Liam found hostels booked or expensive. Digging deeper online, he discovered university dorm rooms available to travelers during summer breaks. He booked a simple, clean room in Bologna for just twenty euros a night. Look beyond the obvious: consider monastery or convent guesthouses, local homestays (booking directly often cheaper), platforms like Homestay.com for vetted rooms in local homes, or even house-sitting gigs for longer stays. These alternatives often offer lower prices and unique cultural experiences.
Best Destinations for Backpacking on $30 a Day
Anika dreamed of long-term travel but had limited savings. She focused on Southeast Asia, specifically Vietnam and Cambodia. By staying in budget guesthouses (around eight dollars), eating delicious street food (two dollars per meal), using local buses, and enjoying free activities like temple visits or beach days, she easily kept her daily spending under thirty dollars. Regions like Southeast Asia, parts of Eastern Europe (like Albania), or Central America (like Guatemala) offer rich experiences, incredible food, and low living costs, making extended budget backpacking achievable.
Best Travel Credit Card for Earning Free Flights (Low Annual Fee)
Dave traveled domestically a few times a year and wanted to earn flight points without a hefty fee. He got a travel credit card with a low annual fee (under one hundred dollars) that offered bonus points after a minimum initial spend and rewarded everyday purchases like groceries and dining. Within a year, using it for regular expenses he’d incur anyway, he earned enough points for a round-trip flight to visit family. Look for cards offering solid rewards on common spending categories and a good sign-up bonus relative to the fee.
Best Free Walking Tours in Major European Cities
Exploring Prague, Sarah joined a free walking tour she found advertised near the Old Town Square. The enthusiastic local guide led the group through hidden alleys and shared fascinating stories about the city’s history and landmarks for nearly three hours. While technically free, these tours operate on tips; guides work hard, so tipping generously (around ten to fifteen euros per person if satisfied) is expected and fair value. Companies like Sandemans New Europe offer these in many cities, providing an excellent, budget-friendly orientation.
Best Travel Insurance for Long-Term Budget Travelers
Six months into his round-the-world trip, Ben needed stitches after a minor scooter accident in Thailand. Thankfully, he had purchased long-term travel insurance specifically designed for backpackers. It covered his medical expenses, saving him hundreds of dollars. For extended trips, look for policies (like those from World Nomads or SafetyWing) offering flexible coverage periods, emergency medical/evacuation, baggage loss/theft protection, and coverage for adventurous activities often excluded from standard policies. Peace of mind is worth the investment.
Best Apps for Finding Cheap Eats While Traveling
Wandering Lisbon, Maria craved authentic, affordable food away from tourist traps. She used apps like Google Maps (searching “restaurants” and filtering by price or rating), The Fork (for booking tables, often with discounts), and local food blogs she found online. She discovered a tiny family-run eatery serving amazing seafood for under ten euros per person. Utilizing map apps, reservation platforms offering deals, and searching for local foodie recommendations online are key strategies for finding delicious, budget-friendly meals anywhere.
Best Ways to Get Around Cities Cheaply (Public Transport Hacks)
Navigating Tokyo seemed daunting and expensive until Ken researched transport hacks. He discovered multi-day subway passes offering unlimited rides for a flat fee, saving significantly compared to single tickets. He also learned to use Google Maps’ public transit directions, which showed exact routes and costs. Utilizing city-specific transport passes, walking whenever feasible, using ride-sharing apps judiciously (often pricier than transit), and understanding local bus networks are essential skills for cheap urban exploration globally.
Best Time to Book Flights for the Cheapest Prices
Planning a trip to Peru, Chloe tracked flight prices for weeks. She noticed fares fluctuated significantly. Research suggests booking flights typically two to three months in advance for international travel, and one to two months for domestic, often yields the best prices. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are sometimes cited as cheaper days to book or fly. Using tools like Google Flights price tracking or Skyscanner alerts helps monitor trends, but flexibility with travel dates (flying mid-week or during shoulder seasons) remains a major factor in securing cheap fares.
Best Southeast Asian Countries for Extreme Budget Travel
Wanting to stretch his savings as far as possible, Alex chose Cambodia and Laos for his backpacking trip. He found private rooms for under ten dollars, flavorful meals for one or two dollars, and overnight bus journeys for less than fifteen dollars. These countries, along with Vietnam and parts of Indonesia or the Philippines (away from major tourist hubs), offer incredible value. With careful budgeting, focusing on local guesthouses, street food, and overland travel, experiencing their rich cultures and landscapes on an extreme budget is very feasible.
Best Ways to Earn Money While Traveling Long-Term
Running low on funds during her year abroad, Maya started freelancing online using skills she already had (writing and graphic design). She found gigs through platforms like Upwork. Others teach English online or in person (requiring TEFL certification), work seasonal jobs in hospitality or tourism (like hostels or ski resorts), or become virtual assistants. Leveraging existing skills digitally, teaching, or finding location-based temporary work are common strategies for funding continuous travel without needing massive upfront savings.
Best Hostel Chains Known for Cleanliness and Social Atmosphere
Nervous about his first solo hostel stay in Europe, David booked a room at a Generator hostel based on reviews praising its cleanliness and social events. He found a spotless dorm, a lively common area facilitating easy conversations, and organized pub crawls that helped him meet fellow travelers instantly. Chains like Generator, Selina (more upscale), or Hostelworld’s highly-rated independent hostels often prioritize hygiene, security, and fostering a welcoming community atmosphere, making them reliable choices for budget-conscious social travelers.
Best Free Things to Do in Expensive Cities (London, Paris, NYC)
Visiting London on a tight budget, Sarah filled her days with amazing free activities. She explored world-class museums like the British Museum and National Gallery (entry is free), watched the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, strolled through beautiful parks like Hyde Park, and window-shopped along Regent Street. Expensive cities often boast incredible free attractions: walk the High Line in NYC, admire Notre Dame from outside in Paris, enjoy street performers, or simply wander charming neighborhoods. Researching these free gems makes pricey destinations accessible.
Best Budget Travel Tips for Solo Female Travelers
Traveling solo in Morocco, Emily prioritized safety while sticking to her budget. She chose well-reviewed female-only hostel dorms, dressed modestly respecting local customs, shared her location with family back home, and used ride-sharing apps with safety features instead of hailing unknown taxis at night. She learned basic local phrases and always projected confidence. Key tips include researching destinations thoroughly, staying aware of surroundings, trusting intuition, connecting with other travelers, and utilizing safety tools and practices for peace of mind.
Best Lightweight Luggage Set for Avoiding Baggage Fees
The Miller family often got hit with overweight baggage fees. They invested in a lightweight luggage set where the empty suitcases themselves weighed significantly less than their old ones. This gave them several extra pounds for packing essentials within airline limits (typically 50 lbs or 23 kg per checked bag). Choosing luggage made from lighter materials like polycarbonate or durable fabrics, and weighing bags before leaving for the airport, are simple ways budget travelers can avoid costly surprise fees at check-in.
Best Reusable Water Bottle with Filter for Safe Drinking Water Abroad
Exploring rural India, Mark was wary of tap water safety but hated buying endless plastic bottles. He carried a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter (like a LifeStraw Go or Grayl GeoPress). This allowed him to safely fill up from taps or streams, removing bacteria and protozoa. It saved him money daily, reduced plastic waste significantly, and ensured he always had access to safe hydration, providing essential peace of mind in areas with questionable water quality.
Best eSIM Provider for Cheap International Data
Landing in Japan, Sarah activated an eSIM she purchased online beforehand from a provider like Airalo or Holafly. Within minutes, her phone connected to the local network, giving her affordable data access without needing to find a physical SIM card shop or pay exorbitant roaming fees from her home carrier. eSIMs offer convenient, often cheaper data plans for specific countries or regions, activated digitally, making them ideal for budget travelers needing connectivity immediately upon arrival. Comparing provider rates for the destination is key.
Best Way to Exchange Currency Without Losing a Fortune
Before his trip to Mexico, Ben needed pesos. Instead of using airport exchange kiosks (known for terrible rates and high fees), he used his bank’s ATM card upon arrival. Withdrawing larger amounts less frequently from legitimate bank ATMs generally offers better exchange rates than currency exchange counters, even factoring in potential ATM fees (check your bank’s international fee policy). Using credit cards with no foreign transaction fees for purchases also helps avoid poor exchange rates embedded in transaction costs.
Best Budget-Friendly Ski Resorts in North America
Avid skier Tom wanted a snow trip without Aspen prices. He researched smaller, independent resorts or those slightly further from major hubs. He found great value at places like Whitefish Mountain Resort in Montana or Loveland Ski Area in Colorado, which offered excellent terrain, fewer crowds, and significantly lower lift ticket and lodging costs compared to premier resorts. Looking beyond the big names, considering mid-week trips, and exploring resorts in states like Idaho, Utah (beyond Park City), or even Eastern Canada can yield fantastic budget skiing.
Best National Parks with Cheap or Free Entry
The Rodriguez family planned a road trip focused on nature, seeking affordable destinations. They discovered many US National Parks have very reasonable entry fees (around $20-35 per vehicle for 7 days), and purchasing an “America the Beautiful” annual pass for about eighty dollars granted access to all federal lands for a year – incredible value. Additionally, many National Forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas offer stunning scenery and recreational opportunities, often completely free or with minimal fees, perfect for budget-conscious outdoor adventures.
Best Road Trip Routes for Saving Money on Gas and Lodging
Planning a cross-country drive, Maya used apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel stops along her route. She planned her itinerary to include stays in smaller towns just outside major cities or National Parks, where motels were significantly cheaper. She also packed lunches and snacks to minimize restaurant costs. Choosing routes through states with lower gas taxes, utilizing fuel price apps, opting for budget lodging away from prime tourist centers, and packing food are key strategies for a more affordable road trip.
Best Cooking Gear for Making Meals in Hostels
Backpacker Leo saved a fortune by cooking most meals himself. His essential hostel kitchen kit included a small nesting pot, a compact spork, a small container of essential spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder), and a reusable food container for leftovers or lunches. Many hostels have basic kitchens, but having your own reliable pot and utensils ensures you can always prepare simple meals like pasta or soup, drastically cutting food costs compared to eating out for every meal while traveling long-term.
Best Budget Camera Phone for Travel Photography
Wanting great travel photos without lugging a heavy camera, Sarah researched budget-friendly smartphones known for good cameras. She opted for a model like a Google Pixel ‘a’ series or a mid-range Samsung Galaxy. These phones offered impressive photo quality, especially in good lighting, portrait modes, and decent video capabilities, all for under five hundred dollars. For most budget travelers, a modern mid-range smartphone provides excellent photographic results, convenient sharing, and eliminates the need for a separate expensive camera.
Best Budget Travel Destinations in South America
Dreaming of South America, Mike researched affordable countries. Bolivia and Ecuador consistently ranked high. He found vibrant culture, stunning Andean landscapes, and unique experiences like the Salt Flats and Galapagos Islands (via budget land-based tours) accessible even with limited funds. Hostels were cheap (around ten dollars), delicious set lunches (almuerzos) cost only a few dollars, and long-distance buses were economical. These countries, along with Peru and Colombia (outside major tourist zones), offer rich travel experiences at a fraction of the cost of neighboring Brazil or Chile.
Best Off-Season Travel Deals You Can Actually Snag
The Williams family wanted a European vacation but found summer prices prohibitive. They planned a trip to Italy in November (shoulder season). Flights were significantly cheaper, accommodation offered discounts, and major attractions like the Colosseum had shorter queues. Traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring/fall) or off-season (winter, depending on destination) often yields substantial savings on flights and lodging, plus a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, making popular destinations much more budget-friendly. Check weather patterns before booking.
Best Way to Volunteer Abroad Ethically and Cheaply
Wanting to give back while traveling, Chloe researched volunteer opportunities carefully. She avoided expensive “voluntourism” placement agencies charging thousands. Instead, she found reputable grassroots organizations through platforms like Workaway or Worldpackers, where she exchanged a few hours of work daily (like helping at a hostel or eco-farm) for free accommodation and sometimes food. Researching organizations directly, ensuring they have a positive local impact, and using work-exchange platforms are ethical and affordable ways to volunteer abroad meaningfully.
Best Budget Travel Gear That Lasts for Years
Tired of cheap gear breaking mid-trip, Ben invested in a few quality basics: a durable carry-on backpack from a reputable brand, merino wool clothing (odor-resistant, versatile), sturdy walking shoes, and a reliable portable charger. Though the initial cost was higher, these items lasted through years of adventures, saving money long-term compared to repeatedly replacing flimsy, cheaper alternatives. Investing strategically in well-made, versatile essentials like a good pack, adaptable clothing, and comfortable shoes is smart budget travel practice.
Best Packing Cubes for Maximizing Backpack Space
Maria struggled to fit everything into her carry-on. A friend recommended packing cubes. Using several cubes – one for shirts, one for bottoms, one for underwear – she compressed her clothes and organized her backpack neatly. Finding items became much easier without unpacking everything. Packing cubes, especially compression types, work wonders for maximizing space, keeping belongings organized, and making packing/unpacking more efficient, allowing budget travelers to fit more into smaller, fee-avoiding carry-on bags.
Best Travel Pillow That Doesn’t Take Up Much Room
Long bus rides in Asia were tough on Liam’s neck, but bulky U-shaped pillows took up too much pack space. He switched to an inflatable travel pillow. When deflated, it folded down smaller than a soda can. Inflating took just a few breaths, providing decent neck support during transit. Inflatable pillows or those made from compressible materials offer neck support for budget travelers on long journeys without sacrificing precious backpack real estate, unlike their bulky microbead or memory foam counterparts.
Best Budget Sleeping Bag Liner for Hostels
Staying in basic hostels, Sarah sometimes questioned the blanket cleanliness. She carried a silk sleeping bag liner. It added a layer of personal hygiene, felt comfortable against her skin, and provided a bit of extra warmth on cooler nights. It packed down incredibly small and light. A sleeping bag liner (silk is light and comfy, cotton is cheaper) is a budget traveler’s best friend for added comfort, hygiene assurance in shared accommodation, and slight warmth, all while taking up minimal pack space.
Best Way to Handle Laundry While Backpacking
During his month-long trip, Ken needed to wash clothes. He avoided expensive hotel services. Sometimes he used hostel laundry machines (paying a few euros). Other times, he hand-washed essentials (underwear, socks, t-shirts) in the sink using a small bar of laundry soap or concentrated detergent sheets he carried, then hung them to dry overnight using a travel clothesline with clips. Utilizing hostel facilities or simple hand-washing are the go-to budget methods for keeping clothes clean on the road.
Best Budget Travel Tips for Couples
Traveling Europe together, Mark and Lisa saved money by sharing costs. They booked private rooms in hostels (often only slightly more expensive than two dorm beds), split costs for groceries to cook some meals together, and took advantage of “two-for-one” deals on attractions or transport. They also communicated openly about budget expectations beforehand. Sharing accommodation, cooking together, looking for couples’ deals, and agreeing on spending priorities allows couples to travel affordably while still enjoying private time and shared experiences.
Best Budget Travel Tips for Families
The Chen family loved traveling but needed to watch expenses. They opted for apartment rentals (like Airbnb or VRBO) with kitchens to save on meals, utilized multi-day family public transport passes, focused on free activities like parks and playgrounds, and packed snacks and drinks. They also traveled during the shoulder season for lower prices and fewer crowds. Choosing self-catering accommodation, leveraging family passes, balancing paid attractions with free fun, and traveling outside peak season make family adventures significantly more affordable.
Best Websites for Finding Error Fares and Glitch Deals
Thrifty flyer Dave regularly checked websites like Scott’s Cheap Flights (subscription-based), Secret Flying, and Jack’s Flight Club. These services scan airlines constantly for mistake fares or unusually low promotional deals. Once, he snagged a round-trip flight from New York to Barcelona for under three hundred dollars – an error fare! While requiring flexibility and quick booking, monitoring specialized deal-finding websites or newsletters is a key tactic for potentially scoring exceptionally cheap flights.
Best Free Camping Spots (Boondocking Tips)
Road-tripping in their van, Sarah and Tom avoided pricey campgrounds by boondocking – camping for free on public lands. They used apps like iOverlander and Campendium to find legal, free spots, often on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or National Forest land. Key tips include being self-sufficient (carrying water, power, toilet), practicing Leave No Trace principles rigorously, checking local regulations, and having backup plans. Boondocking offers incredible freedom and cost savings for vehicle-based travelers comfortable with basic conditions.
Best Budget Airlines Flying to the Caribbean
Planning a beach getaway, Maria looked for affordable flights to the Caribbean from the US. She found airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest often offered competitive fares, especially if booked in advance or during sales. JetBlue also frequently has good deals. As with European budget carriers, it’s crucial to factor in baggage fees and seat selection costs to compare the true final price. Checking fares from multiple nearby airports can also uncover savings for reaching sunny Caribbean destinations affordably.
Best Way to Use Public Transportation in Japan on a Budget
Navigating Japan’s amazing but potentially costly train system, Liam maximized savings. For long distances between cities, he considered a Japan Rail Pass if his itinerary justified the cost (calculating individual ticket prices first). Within cities like Tokyo, he purchased rechargeable IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) for easy tap-and-go payment on subways and local buses, avoiding individual ticket purchases. He also utilized hyperdia.com or Google Maps to plan routes and compare costs, sometimes opting for slightly slower but cheaper local trains over expensive Shinkansen bullet trains.
Best Value Travel Experiences (Where Your Money Goes Furthest)
Seeking maximum experience per dollar, Anna chose Portugal for her European trip. She found stunning coastlines, historic cities, delicious food (Pastel de Nata!), and wine were remarkably affordable compared to neighboring Spain or France. Accommodation, transport, and dining costs were lower, allowing her travel fund to last longer. Destinations like Portugal, Mexico, Vietnam, Poland, or Colombia often represent excellent value, offering rich cultural experiences, beautiful scenery, and great food at a significantly lower price point than many Western European or North American locales.
Best Travel Clothes That Are Versatile and Quick-Drying
Packing light for a multi-climate trip, David focused on versatile clothing. He packed merino wool t-shirts (odor-resistant, temperature-regulating), convertible hiking pants (shorts/pants in one), and items in neutral colors that could be mixed and matched easily. He chose fabrics that dried quickly overnight after sink washing. Investing in a small capsule wardrobe of multi-functional, quick-drying clothes made from materials like merino wool or synthetics reduces luggage bulk and laundry needs, perfect for efficient budget travel.
Best Budget Travel Shoes (Comfort & Durability)
Exploring cities involves miles of walking, so comfortable shoes are non-negotiable for budget traveler Sarah. She invested in a pair of well-regarded walking shoes known for support and durability (like brands popular with runners or hikers, but in a casual style). She avoided cheap, flimsy shoes that would wear out quickly or cause blisters. One pair of broken-in, comfortable, durable, and reasonably versatile shoes (suitable for walking, light trails, and casual evenings) is a crucial investment for any budget traveler prioritizing foot health and avoiding mid-trip replacements.
Best Daypack for Exploring Cities While Traveling
While backpacking, Mark left his large pack at the hostel and explored cities using a small, packable daypack. It was lightweight, folded into its own pouch when not needed, yet large enough to hold essentials like a water bottle, snacks, camera, light jacket, and map. This kept his valuables secure and hands free for navigating crowds or taking photos. A packable, lightweight daypack (15-25 liters) is essential for carrying daily necessities comfortably and securely while sightseeing, without the bulk of the main travel bag.
Best Way to Deal with Jet Lag on a Budget (Natural Remedies)
Flying from New York to Rome, Chloe battled jet lag without expensive sleep aids. Before leaving, she gradually adjusted her sleep schedule closer to Rome time. Upon arrival, she immediately adopted local time – forcing herself to stay awake until evening, getting morning sunlight exposure, and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water (avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol). Simple, free strategies like pre-adjusting sleep, sunlight exposure, hydration, and syncing immediately to local time are effective natural ways to minimize jet lag’s impact.
Best Budget Travel Safety Gear (Locks, Alarms)
Staying in shared hostel dorms, Ben used simple safety gear for peace of mind. He used small padlocks to secure his backpack zippers and lock valuables in hostel lockers. He also carried a rubber doorstop wedge with an alarm; placed under his door at night, it prevented entry and sounded loudly if disturbed. Basic, inexpensive items like luggage locks, a portable doorstop alarm, and a money belt for deep storage of cash/passport provide significant security enhancements for budget travelers concerned about theft.
Best Way to Learn Basic Phrases for Budget Travel
Heading to rural Vietnam where English wasn’t widely spoken, Lisa wanted to connect with locals. She used free language learning apps like Duolingo or Memrise for weeks beforehand to learn basic greetings, numbers, “thank you,” and food-related phrases. She also downloaded an offline translation app (like Google Translate). Knowing even a few simple words showed respect, facilitated smoother interactions (like ordering food or buying bus tickets), and often led to warmer welcomes, significantly enhancing her budget travel experience.
Best Budget Souvenirs That Aren’t Junk
Instead of buying generic trinkets, Mark sought meaningful, budget-friendly souvenirs. In Morocco, he bought fragrant spices from a local market. In Japan, a beautiful tenugui (printed cloth). In Italy, a small packet of local pasta. He focused on consumable items (spices, tea, snacks), small handicrafts purchased directly from artisans, or practical items unique to the region. These souvenirs were inexpensive, easy to pack, and served as genuine reminders of his travels, rather than mass-produced clutter.
Best Travel First-Aid Kit Essentials for Budget Trips
While hiking in Peru, Sarah got a blister. Luckily, her compact first-aid kit contained essentials. She included blister plasters (like Compeed), antiseptic wipes, assorted bandages, pain relievers (ibuprofen), antihistamines for allergies/bites, motion sickness medication, and any personal prescriptions. Assembling a small, personalized kit with basics for common travel ailments saves money and hassle compared to finding a pharmacy abroad for minor issues, ensuring preparedness for small injuries or discomforts on a budget trip.
Best House Sitting Websites for Free Accommodation
Wanting extended stays in expensive countries like Australia, couple Tom and Lisa signed up for house-sitting websites (like TrustedHousesitters or Nomador). They created profiles highlighting their responsibility and love for animals. They secured several sits, caring for homes and pets in exchange for free accommodation, saving thousands on lodging costs. While often requiring membership fees and flexibility, house sitting offers a fantastic way for responsible budget travelers to live like locals and eliminate accommodation expenses, especially for longer trips.
Best Ways to Find Cheap Train Tickets in Europe
Planning train travel across France and Germany, Ken researched cost-saving strategies. He booked tickets well in advance (often 2-3 months) directly through national rail carriers (like SNCF or Deutsche Bahn) for the best prices, especially for high-speed routes. He compared costs for specific times, opting for slightly slower regional trains or off-peak departures when cheaper. Using apps like Trainline to compare options and booking early are key tactics for securing affordable European rail travel, avoiding expensive last-minute fares.
Best Budget Travel Mindset for Enjoying the Journey
Maria’s first budget backpacking trip had hiccups – delayed buses, basic accommodation, communication barriers. Instead of getting frustrated, she embraced the budget travel mindset: flexibility, patience, and openness to the unexpected. She saw challenges as part of the adventure, laughed off minor inconveniences, and focused on the amazing experiences and connections she was having. Cultivating resilience, resourcefulness, a sense of humor, and appreciating simple pleasures over luxury allows budget travelers to truly enjoy the journey, regardless of occasional bumps in the road.