Overlooked Travel Costs: HOW TO AVOID STICKER SHOCK
Flights are booked. Hotel is confirmed. And bonus! You’re well within your budget.
…Until the extra fees start popping up. Resort fees? Parking charges? City taxes? That breakfast you thought was included?
Suddenly your trip costs way more than expected, and you haven’t even filled your suitcase with souvenirs yet 😒
While many of these fees can’t be avoided entirely, knowing about them in advance reduces the sticker shock and helps you pad your budget where it counts.
Here are a few of the most common culprits ⬇️
Resort & City Fees
Those pesky nightly charges can add hundreds to your bill at checkout.
Plan Ahead: Ask about resort or city taxes in advance, or work with someone who’ll outline the total cost up front.
Tipping & Service Charges
A misunderstanding of tipping culture (or a “mandatory” service fee you didn’t expect) can add up fast.
Plan Ahead: Ask about tipping expectations and include them in your budget from the start.
Foreign Transaction Fees & Exchange Rates
Paying in USD abroad or using a card with foreign transaction fees can quietly chip away at your budget.
Plan Ahead: Use a travel-friendly credit card that waives foreign fees, and ALWAYS pay in the local currency for the best rate.
Trip Cancellation, Interruption, or Delay
Getting stuck with nonrefundable costs due to weather, illness, or airline chaos is the ultimate budget buster.
Plan Ahead: Protect your investment with travel insurance that covers cancellations, delays, and interruptions.
Vacations are meant for memories, not money stress. Knowing what to expect, and booking with someone who plans for the unexpected, means you get to enjoy your trip without side-eyeing every receipt.
💰 P.S. Planning with an advisor often saves you money on hidden fees, perks, and package inclusions you might never find on your own!
