Top 10 Unexpected travel expenses and how to avoid them 2023

 Traveling can be expensive and many times, travelers are hit with unexpected fees. In 2023, this is still true and travelers should be aware of potential fees to avoid costly surprises. Knowing what to expect can help travelers budget appropriately and stay on track financially. 

Common Unexpected Travel Expenses

1. Baggage fees: Most airlines charge a fee for passengers to check a bag, but some have additional fees for overweight or oversized bags. Knowing an airline’s policy before arriving at the airport can help travelers avoid surprises and save money. 

2. Booking fees: Booking flights, hotels, and rental cars through a third-party website can add unnecessary booking fees. To avoid these fees, travelers should book directly with the airline, hotel, or rental car company.

3. Flight change fees: Canceling or changing a flight is usually expensive, so travelers should plan ahead and book nonrefundable tickets to save money. Airlines often offer more flexibility with refundable tickets, but these tickets are usually more expensive. 

4. Foreign transaction fees: International travelers should be aware that some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees. To avoid these fees, travelers should use a credit card that does not have foreign transaction fees or use cash to pay for purchases. 

5. Hotel fees: Hotels often charge a variety of fees, including resort fees, parking fees, and pet fees. To save money, travelers should book hotels that do not charge these types of fees. 

6. Rental car fees: Rental car companies often charge additional fees for extras like GPS, car seats, and tolls. To save money, travelers should ask about rental car fees before booking and consider bringing their own car seats and GPS devices. 

7. Railroad fees: Railroad companies often charge fees for onboard snacks and for checking bags. To avoid these fees, travelers should bring their own snacks and make sure their bags are within the size and weight limits. 

8. Shuttle fees: Airport shuttles often charge fees for each passenger and for each bag. To save money, travelers should look for other transportation options like public transportation or ride-sharing services. 

9. Tour fees: Tour operators often charge fees for cancellation and for additional services like meals and transportation. To save money, travelers should read the terms and conditions before booking a tour. 

10. Visa fees: Some countries require a visa for entry and the fees can be expensive. To save money, travelers should research visa requirements before booking their trip and apply for the visa as soon as possible. 

Tips to Avoid Unexpected Travel Expenses

1. Read all the fine print: Before booking a flight, hotel, or rental car, travelers should read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid unexpected fees. 

2. Research all fees: Researching fees ahead of time can help travelers budget appropriately and avoid surprises. 

3. Compare prices: Comparing prices from different airlines, hotels, and rental car companies can help travelers find the best deal and save money. 

4. Bring your own snacks: Bringing your own snacks and drinks can help travelers avoid paying for them onboard a train, plane, or bus. 

5. Book direct: Booking directly with the airline, hotel, or rental car company can help travelers avoid booking fees. 

6. Use a credit card without foreign transaction fees: Using a credit card without foreign transaction fees can help travelers avoid extra fees while traveling abroad. 

7. Consider public transportation: Taking public transportation or ride-sharing services can help travelers save money on airport transfers. 

8. Check the cancellation policy: Canceling a flight or hotel reservation can be expensive, so travelers should check the cancellation policy before booking. 

9. Bring your own equipment: Bringing your own car seats and GPS devices can help travelers avoid rental car fees. 

10. Apply for visas early: Applying for visas early can help travelers avoid rushing to get one at the last minute and paying extra for expedited processing. 

By following these tips, travelers can save money and avoid unexpected travel expenses in 2023. Knowing what to expect and planning ahead can help travelers stay on track financially and enjoy their trip worry-free.