Everyone looks forward to that time of year when they can get away from it all, to that relaxing and fun-filled break from work popularly and affectionately known as "Vacation!" But even though you've been waiting for twelve whole months (or perhaps longer), there's no reason to throw complete caution to the winds once you leave home for that exotic destination. As a matter of fact, you'll need to exercise even more care while you're away so that you won't become an easy 'mark' for thieves who specialize in victimizing unsuspecting travelers. So, to help make your trip a pleasant one from start to finish, here are some prudent money-management tips to keep you on your financial toes while vacationing:

• If you'll be traveling out of your home country, know the currency conversion rates for you the destinations you're going to. You can print out the latest rates online just before you leave home. That way, you'll know the amount of foreign currency you should be getting back when you trade in your native cash, which you can do at a currency-converting bank before you leave or upon arrival at your first stop.
• Just because you're on vacation, you can still use budgeting to help you save money. For instance, one simple tactic is to set an overall spending budget for your trip and divide that amount by the number of days of your vacation. Then, carry only that amount of money with you each day, storing the remaining cash in your hotel's safe. When the daily allotment runs out, your buying is done, thus ensuring that you won't have to go through the last few days of your excursion moneyless. Keep all receipts so that you'll have a clear record of your spending.
• If you have multiple credit cards, carry no more than one with you and use it only for emergencies. Keep the others (along with your valuables, passports and any other important documents) secured in the hotel safe.
• When planning your trip, look for hotels that offer as many perks as possible. Many resorts offer such amenities as free transportation to and from the airport; golf, tennis or scuba packages; free breakfast each day of your booking and discount-admission coupons to nearby attractions.
• Whenever you're traveling abroad, use traveler's checks and record their serial numbers. If they're lost or stolen, you can have them replaced with relative ease.
• Talk to the locals while you're vacationing. Ask them where the best places to eat and shop are located. They'll be able to point you to the bargain spots and steer you clear of the 'tourist traps,' those areas that charge premium prices to take advantage of your unfamiliarity.
• When traveling abroad, be prepared to do a lot of haggling and borrowing for items that may catch your eye, especially when you're browsing through local markets or with street vendors. Don't worry, it's usually expected, and many people find it to be a lot of fun.
• Many airlines are now charging a fee for checked bags, so limit the amount of luggage you carry with you. This alone could save you $20 or more.