8 Things People Waste Money On When Booking A Holiday
Booking a holiday is exciting – it’s all about imagining that perfect getaway, relaxing under the sun, or exploring somewhere entirely new. But when it comes down to planning and actually booking, it’s easy to make choices that aren’t as cost-effective as they could be. So, let’s look at some common ways people end up overspending and how to avoid them to keep more of that travel budget intact.
- Booking on the Wrong Platform
Ever noticed how some sites charge wildly different prices for the exact same holiday? Choosing the wrong platform can cost you hundreds, especially with the countless online travel agencies, direct booking options, and aggregator sites out there. Each platform has its own way of pricing packages, adding fees, or limiting what’s included. Often, booking directly through an airline or hotel offers better rates and flexibility, while other times, a third-party site has a genuine deal.
Solution: Check multiple booking sites before making a final decision. This includes comparing direct bookings against third-party platforms. And if you find a lower rate somewhere else, some hotels and airlines will match it if you book directly with them. The best place to start is HolidayBest, as they have an excellent reputation for value-for-money holiday deals.
- Ignoring Hidden Fees
Who hasn’t been lured in by a low advertised price only to be shocked by the extra charges stacked onto the bill? Hidden fees are a sneaky addition that can make a “bargain” into an unexpectedly costly booking. These fees can pop up for a variety of things, like checked baggage, airport shuttles, or local taxes. By the time they’re added, your budget-friendly holiday could cost more than you initially thought.
Solution: Read the fine print carefully and know the full cost breakdown. Look for added taxes, resort fees, or surcharges that aren’t included in the headline price. A simple scan of the terms can save a lot of disappointment (and money).
- Choosing Expensive Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential – no one wants to be stranded without it if things go wrong. But picking the most expensive option doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best cover. Many people end up with overlapping coverage or paying for unnecessary extras, just because they’re trying to be safe.
Solution: Shop around. Compare policies and ensure the one you choose covers only what you need. Often, basic coverage is enough unless you’re engaging in high-risk activities. If you already have some insurance through a credit card, you may only need supplementary cover instead of a whole new policy.
- Paying Extra for Priority Boarding or Seat Selection
Many airlines offer the option to pay for priority boarding or to choose a specific seat. And while it’s tempting to skip the boarding lines or secure a window seat, these “perks” aren’t essential for everyone. Especially if you’re traveling light or if your group doesn’t mind a few minutes of waiting, you can easily save by skipping these extras.
Solution: Ask yourself if these add-ons really enhance your travel experience or if you can do without. For families, maybe a pre-selected seat is essential. For solo travellers? Probably not.
- Overpaying for Currency Exchange
Many travellers end up spending extra on holiday by exchanging currency at the airport or through high-fee services. Airports are notorious for poor exchange rates, and even some local kiosks will take a significant commission. If you exchange a lot of money at these rates, you’re literally giving away part of your travel budget.
Solution: Compare exchange rates at different providers, and consider prepaid travel cards, which offer better rates and are more secure than cash. If you can, withdraw local currency from a reputable ATM once you arrive – this can be one of the cheapest options.
- Renting a Car with Unnecessary Add-Ons
If you’re hiring a car, there’s often a long list of optional extras – GPS, child seats, premium insurance, Wi-Fi, and more. These can add a significant amount to the cost, but many travellers accept them without a second thought. It’s worth considering what you actually need, as you might already have GPS on your phone, or a travel insurance policy that includes rental coverage.
Solution: Double-check what’s included in your car rental. Many policies offer sufficient basic cover, and extras like GPS can usually be skipped. Additionally, you can bring your own child seat or use offline maps on your phone to cut down on costs.
- Not Checking for Local Deals or Packages
Once you’re at your destination, it’s easy to fall into tourist traps with higher prices and lower value. From attractions to dining, travellers who don’t look into local deals might end up paying more than necessary. Local offers can provide access to popular spots and experiences at a fraction of the price.
Solution: Before booking activities or dining at highly-rated restaurants, check local apps or ask locals for recommendations. Hotels often have brochures or partnerships with local services that include discounts.
- Failing to Set a Realistic Budget
While it’s tempting to splurge on a holiday, going overboard without a budget can lead to unexpected expenses and stress when you get home. Setting a budget for food, travel, and entertainment helps manage costs and ensures that the holiday remains enjoyable without the anxiety of overspending.
Solution: Plan a budget that includes meals, entertainment, shopping, and a bit of a buffer for unexpected expenses. Sticking to it will help you make the most of your trip without the stress of overspending.
Enjoying the Journey Without the Extra Costs
Booking a holiday is supposed to be enjoyable, but it’s easy to get caught out by extra costs if you don’t take a little extra time to plan. By knowing where you could be wasting money, you’ll be in a better position to make informed choices, so you can travel without that lingering worry about overspending. Whether it’s picking the right platform, skipping unnecessary extras, or setting a budget, these small adjustments make a big difference – giving you more freedom to fully enjoy your holiday, knowing you’ve made the most of every penny.