You’ve set your out-of-office reply, packed your bags and even picked out a beach read. You’re ready for vacation. After careful planning and research, you’ve thought of everything. (Alternative plans for a rained-out pool day? Check.) But what about those hidden travel expenses?
While you probably budgeted for plane tickets and a hotel, other costs you haven’t accounted for can add up quickly. With a little foresight, you can prepare for these common additional expenses to help ensure you don’t blow your vacation budget.
Read more: Make the most of your travel budget with these cost-cutting travel hacks
Remember resort fees
When you book a hotel, you know what your nightly rate will be, but what about the other fees attached to it? It’s not uncommon for resort or hotel fee to be separate from your nightly rate. They may show up on your bill as a facilities fee, destination fee or amenity fee.
Resort fees may not show up until the final step in the booking process when you see the full price, including taxes. If you’d like to avoid them altogether, shop around to find accommodations that don’t charge a resort fee.
Going the route of a vacation rental or home stay? Even though you will avoid resort fees, there are often extra fees for cleaning when you check-out of your home away from home – be sure to check the rental agreement’s fine print.
Read more: Navigate the ins and outs of all-inclusive travel
Beware of airline baggage fees
Air travel can be expensive — and it’s not just the tickets. From food to Wi-Fi to ground transportation after landing, there are plenty of small expenses to keep in mind, but one you won’t want to overlook is luggage fees. Depending on what airline you’re flying you may need to pay an additional fee if you check a bag. Rules and charges vary significantly from airline to airline, so it’s worth doing some comparison shopping if baggage fees are a concern. And if you’re able, fitting everything in a carry-on can help you sidestep the charge altogether.
However, if you need to check a bag or two there are ways to keep costs down. Pack light to reduce the number and size of the bags you have to bring. Shop around for airlines that don’t charge an additional fee – and don’t forget to check on any airline credit card or loyalty program benefits you might have access to (free checked bags might be a perk).
Factor in foreign transaction fees
If your trip takes you out of the country, remember you may encounter foreign transaction fees. You’ve worked hard to maximize your vacation savings by budgeting carefully and strategically for your trip. Factoring in these fees will help you stay on track. Some credit card companies charge foreign transaction fees for purchases made internationally. Check your card’s policy and if you frequently travel abroad consider applying for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.
Paying in cash, when possible, can help you avoid some or all of these charges. But be sure to research the best exchange rates in the area before you reach your destination. Local banks typically have better rates than currency exchanges in popular tourist areas, (like airports and hotels). You may also be able to do a currency exchange at your local bank before you leave.
Plan for parking
Whether you’re headed out on a road trip, or plan to rent a car, if you plan to drive during your trip, you will probably need to pay for parking at some point. Choices may be limited depending on your destination but consider your options ahead of time to find ways to save. In dense urban areas where parking comes at a premium, consider using apps that can help you find the best prices or offer discounts. You might also consider public transportation, ridesharing or even walking to get around during your vacation.
Suss out sneaky expenses
Travel is an adventure, but you don’t want surprise expenses to put a damper on your trip. By anticipating and planning for hidden fees, you can make sure your focus remains on how much fun you’re having — and not the extra costs hitting your wallet.
