20 Hidden Travel Fees and How to Avoid Them
Travel is expensive enough—don’t let sneaky hidden fees drain your wallet.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 6 min read
Hidden travel fees can turn a budget-friendly trip into a financial nightmare. From surprise baggage charges to sneaky resort fees, these extra costs add up fast. Here’s how to spot them and, more importantly, avoid them so you can spend your money on experiences, not unnecessary expenses.
1. Baggage Fees That Catch You Off Guard
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Airlines love charging for checked bags, and some even for carry-ons. Always check baggage policies before booking and stick to airlines with free carry-on options. Pack light, use compression bags, and wear bulky items on the plane. If you travel often, consider an airline credit card that includes free baggage perks.
2. Sneaky Seat Selection Fees
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That “optional” seat selection fee? It’s just another way airlines make money. Skip paying extra by letting the airline assign your seat for free. If traveling with others, check in early to increase your chances of sitting together. Otherwise, book airlines that don’t charge for seat selection.
3. Resort Fees That Aren’t Optional
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Hotels love adding daily “resort fees” for things like Wi-Fi, gym access, or pool use—even if you don’t use them. Always check for resort fees before booking, and factor them into your budget. Look for hotels that don’t charge these or ask at check-in if they can be waived. Booking with points often avoids these fees, too.
4. Wi-Fi Charges That Cost More Than Your Coffee
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Some hotels still charge ridiculous fees for Wi-Fi. Before booking, check if Wi-Fi is included or join the hotel’s loyalty program for free access. If stuck with fees, use your phone’s hotspot or visit a nearby café. A portable Wi-Fi device can also be a lifesaver.
5. Foreign Transaction Fees That Sneak Up on You
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Using the wrong credit card abroad can cost you extra with every swipe. Get a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees before your trip. Always choose to pay in local currency when given the option. Avoid exchanging money at airports, where rates are terrible.
6. ATM Fees That Drain Your Cash
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Withdrawing money from the wrong ATM can mean high fees from both your bank and the local one. Use ATMs from major banks or those partnered with your bank. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees. A debit card with fee reimbursement is a game-changer.
7. Rental Car Insurance That You Might Not Need
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Rental companies push pricey insurance, but your credit card or regular car insurance might already cover you. Check your coverage before you travel. If you need insurance, third-party providers often offer it cheaper. Always inspect the car and take photos before driving off.
8. Gas Refill Charges That Cost a Fortune
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Returning a rental car without a full tank means paying sky-high refueling fees. Always fill up the tank yourself before returning the car. Use a gas station a few miles away to avoid overpriced airport gas stations. Keep your receipt in case the rental company claims otherwise.
9. Early Check-in and Late Check-out Fees
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Want to check in early or stay late? Some hotels charge extra for the privilege. Avoid fees by joining the hotel’s loyalty program, which sometimes includes early check-in. Call ahead to request a free late checkout—it often works if the hotel isn’t fully booked.
10. Hidden Fees in Budget Airlines’ Cheap Tickets
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That $50 flight? It’s never really $50 once they add fees for bags, seat selection, and even printing a boarding pass. Read the fine print before booking budget airlines. Pack light, bring your own snacks, and check in online to dodge extra charges. Sometimes, a regular airline is actually cheaper once fees are added.
11. Overpriced Airport Food and Drinks
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Hungry at the airport? Be ready to pay double. Bring snacks and an empty reusable water bottle to fill after security. Some credit cards give you access to airport lounges with free food and drinks. If you must buy, look for fast-food chains instead of overpriced airport cafés.
12. Ticket Change and Cancellation Fees
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Plans change, but airlines and hotels charge hefty fees for changes or cancellations. Book flexible tickets or refundable rates when possible. If a change is necessary, call customer service instead of doing it online—sometimes they’ll waive the fee. Travel insurance can also help if plans fall apart.
13. Luggage Storage Fees at Hotels and Airports
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Need to store bags after checkout or during a layover? It’s not always free. Some hotels waive storage fees for guests—ask nicely. Use luggage storage apps or train station lockers, which can be cheaper than airport storage services. Travel light to avoid needing storage at all.
14. Parking Fees That Add Up Fast
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Hotel and airport parking can cost more than your rental car. Look for hotels with free parking or use apps to find nearby cheaper lots. Consider public transportation or ride-sharing instead of renting a car. Some hotels offer discounted or validated parking—always ask.
15. Cruise Gratuities That Aren’t Optional
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Cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities, sometimes without clear notice. Check the fine print and budget for these extra charges. Some allow you to adjust the amount at guest services. Prepaying gratuities when booking can sometimes lock in lower rates.
16. City Tourism Taxes That Surprise You at Checkout
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Many cities charge extra taxes on hotels, sometimes hidden until checkout. Research city tourism taxes before booking so you’re not caught off guard. Consider staying just outside the city if taxes are significantly lower. Sometimes Airbnb or vacation rentals have lower tax rates than hotels.
17. Public Transportation Fees for Unused Cards
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Buying a transit card for the week? Some cities require a deposit or have non-refundable balances. Check if single tickets or day passes are cheaper. If you buy a card, see if you can get a refund on the deposit before leaving. Digital payment options (like Apple Pay) can also be cheaper.
18. Toll Fees You Didn’t See Coming
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Rental cars often come with pricey toll passes, and some toll roads don’t accept cash. Research toll roads before driving and use your own toll transponder if possible. Pay tolls manually when possible to avoid rental car company markups. Google Maps or Waze can help you avoid toll roads altogether.
19. Hidden Fees on “Free” Attractions
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Some “free” attractions still charge for parking, lockers, or mandatory donations. Read reviews to see if there are hidden costs. Bring your own essentials to avoid expensive rentals (like towels at a beach). Always check if free entry is only at certain times.
20. Airline Carry-On Weight Limits That Cost You Big
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Even if your carry-on is free, some airlines have strict weight limits. Weigh your bag before heading to the airport. Wear heavy items like jackets and boots to save weight. A small personal item (like a backpack) can sometimes hold more than a tiny rolling suitcase.