Embarking on a new journey is always an exhilarating experience. We know that travel provides a reprieve from the strains of work and allows you to explore new places and experience new cultures.
Three famous words – unexpected travel costs!! (we all know and hate them) – can throw your budget off track and drastically impact your trip, personal finances and even your general state of mind after the fact.
We’ve compiled a list of 10 unexpected travel expenses to help you not only identify but also avoid them.
1. Baggage Fees
Baggage fees can be confusing, especially when flying with multiple carriers. They all have distinct weight and size requirements, which can very easily cost start costing lot of money if you don’t prepare or exceed the set allowance(s).
Before filling up your suitcase to the brim, check the weight and size restrictions for each airline you’ll be flying with. Also, double-check your ticket to ensure that luggage is included. A lot of times budget airlines and tickets do not often provide free checked luggage or even carry-on, so this is something to make a note of.
We recommend investing in a portable luggage scale Amazon – Luggage Scales to avoid ever having overweight luggage AND a durable luggage set to travel with.
2. Roaming Charges
Let’s be honest, we are addicted to our phones in one shape or the other, and want to be able to use them whenever. To avoid costly bills when you return home, make sure you remember to turn off roaming on your device. When possible, use Wi-Fi or consider acquiring a local SIM card at your location
3. Debit/Credit Card Fees
There are around 1000+ banks globally, and each bank imposes fees for non-members. If you don’t have a travel card, you’ll almost certainly have to pay withdrawal fees. Some credit cards levy a fee for each purchase made while travelling internationally.
The best method to avoid all of these expenses is to obtain a travel card. Always notify your bank when travelling abroad to avoid card denial or, in the worst-case scenario, getting devoured by the machine. We also love modern banking apps like Monzo which is great for frequent travellers and offer comparable exchange rates for abroad spending.
4. Emergencies
Accidents are just that, they happen when we least expect them. When you travel there is always the risk of an accident or illness whether that’s in transit or during your trip. You should always purchase travel insurance for each trip to ensure that you are adequately covered. Keep up to date with the necessary vaccines or medications for your destination, and budget for emergencies or at least have access to funds in the event of an emergency.
5. Uber/Taxi Fares
There may be additional expenses for the taxi ride from the airport for instance an Uber surcharge during busy hours. Often times this happens with apps like Uber/Bolt, but can also happen to local taxis.
To avoid paying exorbitant fees, be aware that taxis have flat charges that must be followed. Learn these rates to avoid being taken advantage of. If Uber and/or local cab prices are prohibitively expensive, consider taking public transportation such as the metro, bus, or shuttle.
6. Currency Exchange
Currency exchange shops normally charge a standard fee for their services, which adds to the cost. Some charge reasonable fees and others are pretty ridiculous.
To ensure you are getting the best rate first check by using a currency converter such as XE. You can also opt to change money are your destination country rather than your home country (though this too has its downsides, for example you could be stuck with a terrible exchange rate and won’t have much of a choice by that point).
7. Unexpected Weather
Packing a light rain jacket, umbrella, and shoes for wet weather can mean the difference between simply enjoying your trip and trying to find a local shop that sells these products – most likely at a much higher prices than you’d pay at home. These products take up little space in your luggage and have the extra bonus of allowing you to get out and enjoy the scenery regardless of the weather! There’s nothing worse than having to cancel your plans just because you don’t have the appropriate clothing.
Our Verdict
Making a comprehensive budget plan will help protect you from overspending, and importantly avoid unexpected trip expenses. Always keep some additional cash on hand in case of an emergency. We hope the advice provided is of great use to you as you look forward to going away on a much deserved holiday 🙂
