Avoid Hidden Holiday Fees: Five Costs to Watch This Summer

As summer travel approaches, holidaymakers face the risk of unexpected charges that can significantly inflate their vacation expenses. From car rental fees to seat selection costs, a variety of hidden charges can catch travelers off guard. This summer, experts are urging vacationers to be vigilant to avoid unnecessary financial burdens.

Be Cautious with Airport Parking Costs

Parking fees at airports can quickly escalate, potentially consuming hundreds of pounds from your travel budget. According to moneysavingexpert.com, booking your parking space in advance at the UK’s largest airports can save you up to £362. For instance, the cost of parking on arrival can reach £416 per week at major airports. Off-site parking options are often even cheaper. A recent analysis by Holiday Extras revealed that travelers could save up to £60 by choosing an off-site car park rather than one located on airport property.

Travelers should also be mindful of potential overstay fees. At Stansted Airport, for example, charges can reach up to £67 per day. If you pick up your car late due to a delayed flight, you may have grounds to claim these fees from your airline or travel insurer.

Seat Selection: A Costly Decision

Many airlines impose fees for selecting specific seats, which can be quite steep. For instance, WizzAir charges up to £147.74 per person for the privilege of sitting together. Ryanair and easyJet also levy fees for seat reservations, with costs reaching up to £38 and £29.99, respectively. To avoid these charges, travelers are advised to book tickets together and check in online as early as possible, as most airlines will automatically seat families next to one another.

Jo Rhodes, a travel expert, emphasizes the importance of awareness: “It’s easy to get stung by lots of extra fees, all of which can really push up the cost of your holiday.”

Beware of Excess Fees on Car Rentals

Car rental companies often add unexpected fees that can inflate the cost of a rental by as much as £452 for a week. Excess protection, which covers large excess fees for damage or theft, is one of the most expensive add-ons, averaging £189. However, this protection can often be obtained from specialist providers for as little as £3.49 per day.

Travelers should also consider using their own car seats and navigation systems rather than paying rental companies, which can charge up to £72 for a GPS unit. Such preparations can lead to significant savings during your holiday.

Manage Baggage Fees Before Departure

Overweight luggage fees can become an unexpected expense for travelers. Some airlines allow you to pre-purchase additional weight for your checked bags, often at a fraction of the cost of paying at the airport. For example, easyJet permits passengers to add extra weight for £15 per 3 kg up to two hours before departure. In contrast, airport charges can amount to £12 per kilogram over the limit, which can lead to hefty fees. Proactively managing baggage weight can save travelers significant money.

Don’t Forget Tourist Taxes

Many countries now impose tourist taxes that can add a substantial amount to hotel bills. Countries such as Spain, Greece, Italy, France, and Thailand routinely charge these fees. For instance, travelers visiting Greece this summer may face an additional cost of €8 (£6.94) per night, totaling nearly £50 for a week’s stay. These taxes help fund local amenities and services but can catch travelers off guard if not budgeted for in advance.

In conclusion, being aware of these common holiday fees can help travelers better prepare for their summer vacations. By taking proactive steps to avoid hidden charges, vacationers can enjoy their time away without the stress of unexpected financial burdens.