When you’re in the process of planning a vacation, most people only focus on airfare and lodging, but there are several less common costs that people often forget about – And they can add up quickly! When you book with a travel professional, they will provide you with a transparent accounting of the extra costs you should expect.
Here are 7 unexpected travel expenses to watch out for:
1. Airline Fees
Most airlines charge for checked bags, and most people are already aware of this. However, there are some airlines that charge additional fees for carry-ons, and seat selections. Check with your airline in advance, so you know what to expect.
Additionally, airlines can also charge extra for priority seating, and for any of the food or drinks you choose to sip on while you’re in the air. Unfortunately, most airlines don’t outline these fees ahead of your flight, and the unplanned bill can catch you by surprise.
2. Resort Fees
Many resorts charge resort fees and most travelers are unaware of these additional fees. These fees are also not usually included in your hotel or vacation package you booked, and is due at arrival or at check out. The resort justifies this fee for offering amenities such Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and parking. However, some resorts also charge additional fees for parking on top of the resort fee. These fees can range anywhere from $20 USD a day to upwards of $50 USD per day.
When you book a resort on your own, they don’t always tell you about the fees until you’re already at the resort. Spending an extra $300-$500 you weren’t planning on can put a wrench in the rest of your vacation. When booking with a Travel Professional like Rebecca from Wanderland Escapes, she discloses these fees to you upfront before you make the booking so you’re not surprised.
3. Parking Fees and Transportation Costs
Parking can be costly no matter where you go, but some places are more notorious than others for charging steep prices for your car to sit in it’s square of space. Often these are daily expenses, and like resort fees they can add up quick. If you have a lengthy drive to your departing airport, you’ll probably need to park your car at the airport, and this is a big one you’ll need to budget for. Some airports have other lots nearby that are much more affordable, so be sure to check into your options if you have to drive to the airport and you can’t realistically take an Uber or a taxi.
Transport costs such as Uber or Lyft, transfers to your hotel, as well as the fees around guided tours and public transit are something to factor into your budget. Be sure to check into these options and weigh them into your budget before you commit.
4. Fees for Credit Card, Cell Phone, and ATM Card Use
Foreign transaction fees on credit cards are an unexpected travel expense that you should also be aware of. When you grab your best friend a souvenir and pay with your credit card, you could be paying for the trinket, as well as foreign transaction fees if you’re outside of your home country. These are often forgotten about until the credit card bill comes in later in the month and surprises you.
Before you travel, check with your credit card company and see if they charge foreign transaction fees. If you’re looking for a great travel credit card without any foreign transaction fees, Capital One has a great option. (It’s also what I use) You can apply for that here: https://capital.one/3csROaY. (I do get a referral bonus if you sign up using this link)
If you decide to use an ATM at your location to get some of the local money in cash, be prepared for additional ATM fees beyond what you might be used to. Foreign currency exchange comes with its own handful of fees as well as a fee from your bank and the ATM’s bank.
Lastly, if you plan to use your cell phone during your trip to make calls, send messages, use the GPS, or even to use data-based apps, be sure to check with your carrier to find out if there are additional costs. If it’s not included with your plan, they may have options to add it on temporarily at a reasonable price. If you don’t check ahead of time, you could see significant roaming charges on your bill upon your return.
5. Travel Insurance
This one shouldn’t be considered unexpected, but there are still many people who don’t plan for this very important piece of their vacation. There are a lot of moving parts with a big vacation, and you’re also paying a lot of money for it. That is why it’s so important to protect yourself from things outside of your control. Hello Covid!
When you book a vacation and add travel insurance, not only will it protect you and your precious time, but you’ll also protect your investment if something happens. Without it, you’ll likely lose everything since most travel is non-refundable. Don’t skip this important step and make sure to budget for it.
6. Departure Fees
Another common, but an unexpected travel expense for most travelers are departure fees. Certain countries require you to pay a fee in order to return home. One location that this is common in is in Cancun, Mexico. They require you to pay a departure fee of about $10 per person. They have options where you can pay it online or at kiosks at the airport. Many other countries do this too. Talk to your travel advisor to make sure you know what those fees are before you book your trip.
7. Food, Drinks, and Excursions
This isn’t really an unexpected travel expense, but it’s something that people often forget to budget for when they plan a vacation. Dining out can be expensive, especially at tourist traps. All inclusive resorts might be something to consider to help cut down on costs because they include food and even alcoholic drinks with your stay.
Participating in events, excursions, buying from the local market, and other adventures will also need to be budgeted separately from the resort costs.
Be in the Know of Unexpected Travel Expenses
When you plan a vacation, it’s an exciting time, but when you book on your own things can often be overlooked or you could just be unaware. It’s especially advantageous to book your vacation with a travel specialist so you can be aware of any unexpected travel expenses.
Booking with a specialist also helps you stick to your budget because you’ll have an idea of the fees ahead of your trip. The best part of having a trusted travel advisor on your side is that they can help you get the most out of your trip by finding fun and memorable activities that won’t break the bank, and can often find you options that don’t have hidden fees.
Contact Wanderland Escapes today to start booking your next trip.
