Avoid Hidden Holiday Fees: Five Tips for Summer Travelers

As summer travel approaches, hidden fees from airlines, hotels, and car rental companies are on the rise, potentially costing holidaymakers hundreds of pounds. According to travel expert Jo Rhodes, it’s crucial for travelers to remain vigilant about these extra charges, which can significantly inflate the overall cost of a trip. Here are five common holiday pitfalls to avoid this season.

Plan Ahead for Airport Parking

Airport parking costs can quickly escalate, with prices reaching up to £416 per week for last-minute bookings. However, travelers can save as much as £362 by reserving parking spaces in advance at major airports in the UK, as highlighted by moneysavingexpert.com. For example, opting for an off-site car park can lead to savings of up to £60 compared to on-site options.

Additionally, travelers should be cautious of overstay fees, which can reach up to £67 per day at Stansted Airport, £35 at Liverpool, and £30 at Bristol Airport. In cases of flight delays, passengers might be able to claim these charges back from their airline or travel insurance.

Secure Your Seats Without Extra Costs

Many airlines impose charges for selecting seats in advance, with prices varying widely. For instance, WizzAir passengers might pay up to £147.74 per person to sit together, while Ryanair and easyJet charge up to £38 and £29.99, respectively. A simple strategy is to book tickets together, as most airlines—excluding Ryanair—will automatically seat families next to each other. Checking in online as early as possible increases the chances of securing adjacent seats without incurring additional fees.

Be Wary of Car Rental Extras

Car rental companies frequently attempt to upsell drivers on unnecessary add-ons, which can inflate rental costs by up to £452 for a week-long hire, according to icarhireinsurance.com. Excess protection, typically priced at around £189, is often offered at a fraction of that through specialized providers, sometimes as low as £3.49 per day.

Travelers should also consider using their own navigation systems to avoid the additional £72 fee for renting a sat nav. Bringing a child’s car seat can also save money, as rental companies may charge from £7 per day for this service.

Manage Your Luggage Wisely

Overweight baggage fees can quickly add up, with some airlines charging significantly more at the airport than if added online. For example, easyJet allows passengers to add extra weight for up to £15 per 3 kg before arriving at the airport, while fees at the airport can reach £12 per kilogram. For a suitcase exceeding the weight limit by 3 kg, this could lead to charges of £72 for a round trip, while pre-purchasing could limit costs to £30, saving travelers £42.

Account for Tourist Taxes

Tourist taxes have become increasingly common in various countries, often added directly to hotel bills. Destinations such as Spain, Greece, and Italy charge these fees, which can substantially increase accommodation costs. For instance, a week’s stay in Greece this summer could incur a fee of up to €8 (£6.94) per night, translating to nearly £50 for the week. Travelers are advised to factor these costs into their budgets to avoid unexpected bills.

By being proactive and informed, holidaymakers can sidestep these common financial traps and enhance their travel experience this summer.