Taking a family holiday abroad can be an expensive business. On top of the cost of flights, accommodation, food and entertainment, there are dozens of hidden costs that can snag the unsuspecting traveller. Here, we’ll take a look at a few of the more troublesome ones.
Drinks
Here’s where tourists are in something of a bind. We can’t buy water in bulk and take it onto the plane, but, in many cases, neither can we drink the tap water available in our destination of choice. Thus we often end finding bottled water wherever it’s convenient. A Post-Office poll of more than 2,000 adults revealed an average overspend of around £415, £22 of which comes from bottled water alone. So, it’s worth finding out where you’ll be getting your drinking water when you’re considering a hotel.
Data
If you’re travelling within the EU, then the good news is that you’ll be protected against excessive data charges. If you’re going further afield though, then the cost of roaming can quickly escalate. To be on the safe side, turn off your phone’s data and check that your accommodation has free WiFi. In any case, you don’t want to be online while you’re on holiday, anyway.
Airport Spending
When you shop at an airport and you need essential supplies, there’s nowhere else to go. And thus the few shops which are there are able to charge a hefty premium. This philosophy extends from the bureaux de change right up to the Wetherspoons – the more you spend in the airport, the more you’re overspending on your holiday.
Of course, there are exceptions to this rule. If you’ve already shopped around for the best exchange rate online, then the airport might be the best place to pick up your cash.
Baggage Fees
If your baggage is outsized or overweight, then the airliner will probably charge you extra to stick it into the cargo hold. This is serious money for airliners. Budget companies like Ryanair have last year slashed their allowances by a third, so just because you were within the boundaries last year, doesn’t mean you’re safe this time. If you’re going to be shopping while on holiday, be sure to consider the extra weight you’re carrying before you check in for the return flight.
Airport Transfers
When you finally arrive at your destination, you’ll need to actually get from the airport to your accommodation. This often means airport transfers, which can cost quite a bit. Booking airport transfers in advance will help you to get the best possible deal, and give you a better idea of your overall budget as you move on with the rest of your holiday. It’ll also give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your transport will be waiting.