Traveling can be enjoyable and even life-changing, but hidden fees in travel often catch people off guard. Without warning, your well-planned budget transforms into a financial burden.
Hidden fees in travel deals are, unfortunately, fairly common for anyone planning a vacation. Knowing where these unexpected costs tend to hide can help you avoid overspending. Here are 8 common hidden fees found in travel deals that could strike with a vengeance if you’re not careful.
1. Baggage Fees
Many airlines advertise low fares but make up for them with high charges for checked baggage. To avoid this, check the airline’s baggage policy before booking.
Consider flying with airlines that allow at least one free checked bag, or better yet, try to pack everything into a carry-on if your trip is short. Be aware of weight limits as well since this could increase the price.
2. Resort Fees
Hotels, especially in tourist-heavy destinations, may add a daily resort fee. This hidden fee covers amenities like the pool, gym, or internet access, regardless of whether you use them.
Avoid surprises by contacting the hotel directly before booking to ask about mandatory fees. Explore lodging options like vacation rentals or boutique hotels that often do not charge resort fees.
3. Restaurant Service Charges
Hidden fees in travel are sometimes outside of the airlines and hotels. Be careful at restaurants in foreign countries. They sometimes add a service charge that isn’t always clearly disclosed before you dine. Check the menu for small print regarding added fees, or ask the server directly before ordering.
4. Foreign Transaction Fees
Credit card companies may charge a fee for purchases made outside your home country. Call your bank ahead of time to see if this will be an issue. If your bank knows about your travel plans, they won’t flag overseas purchases as fraudulent. This saves you money and creates less of a headache down the road.
5. Dynamic Currency Conversion
Merchants and ATMs abroad might offer to charge you in your home currency instead of the local currency, This practice is known as dynamic currency conversion.
While this might seem convenient, the exchange rate is often poor with this type of transaction. Always choose to pay in the local currency to get the best rate from your own bank.
6. Cancellation Fees
Many travel deals are non-refundable or come with steep cancellation fees. You don’t want to lose money if your plans change, so book flexible rates where possible.
It could be more expensive at first, but it’s worth the extra funds. Travel insurance covers cancellations for valid reasons, giving you more peace of mind.
7. Airport and Tourist Taxes
Some destinations require travelers to pay additional taxes that might not be included in the price of a travel package or ticket. These tourist taxes can be charged upon arrival or departure and vary greatly between countries and airports.
Research these fees in advance so you can budget accordingly and avoid surprises. You can find this information on the internet or call and ask the hotel or airline directly.
8. Rental Car Extras
Rental car companies are notorious for their hidden fees. There are unexpected charges for additional drivers, GPS systems, car seats, or returning the car to a different location.
To avoid these, check what’s included in the quoted price and decline any unnecessary extras. Use your phone’s GPS instead of renting a device, and try to return the car to the same location if possible.
Happy Travels
Going on vacation is always exciting, but hidden fees can be an unwelcome part of the journey. Ask the right questions and do your research to avoid these extra charges.
Your travel budget should be strictly for enjoyment. Always read the fine print, compare total costs including all fees, and use strategies that match your travel style to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Read More:
14 Hidden Gems in Europe for a Unique Vacation Experience
The Top 10 Most Deceptive Marketing Tactics Used Today To Get Your Money
Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.