Hidden travel costs and how to dodge them « Euro Weekly News

With hundreds of millions of Europeans expected to travel abroad this year, many are unknowingly falling victim to hidden fees that can quickly add up – think how much in profit airlines and travel services are making.

From “budget flights” to overpriced airport snacks and misleading hotel perks, experts warn these costs could make your trip far more expensive than anticipated. Find out how to dodge those dreaded hidden fees.

Budget flights that blow the budget

“That £40 flight might feel too good to be true, and often, that’s because it is,” travel specialists eShores warn in London Daily News. Airlines frequently show only the base fare, excluding extras like baggage and seat selection.

A checked 20kg bag “can add around £50 (€58.50) each way,” and seat selection could cost up to £20 (€23.40) each way. That’s £140 (€163.80) in extra fees per person – often more than the flight itself.

Travel minis with maxi prices

According to eShores, “a 20ml tube of toothpaste costs around £1.50 (€1.75), while the full-size 75ml version is the same price – saving over £3 (€3.51) per ml if bought after arrival.” That’s a 500 per cent mark-up that many carry-on travellers pay unnecessarily.

They advise buying essentials airside, as airport shops “usually match the high street” and a shopping bag is often allowed alongside carry-on luggage.

“Free” hotel breakfasts

Many hotels inflate room rates for breakfast-inclusive stays. eShores explain: “Some hotels increase room rates by £20 (€23.40) or more per night for a breakfast-inclusive stay, even though a local café might offer a cheaper, fresher, and better-quality meal for half the price.”

Always compare the rate difference and consider local alternatives.

Holiday car hire

Travel expert Jane Bolton from Erna Low told Bristol Post: “Some car hire contracts include excess charges of over £1,000 (€1,170) for every minor damage.”

She recommends “purchasing an independent excess insurance policy in advance,” which can cost “as little as £33 (€38.60) for a week,” and taking clear photos of the car before and after use.

Mobile roaming charges

Many travellers wrongly assume charges apply only to outgoing calls. But Jane Bolton says, “Incoming calls, background app data and automatic updates can also rack up sky-high bills.”

A cruise passenger recently racked up a £1,050 (€1,218) phone bill after failing to turn off data roaming. Remember to always disable data roaming, consider local SIMs or international plans, and use apps like WhatsApp via Wi-Fi. However, try to avoid unsecured networks as these pose a cybersecurity risk.

Airport lounges aren’t just for the wealthy

“Airport cafés and fast-food outlets tend to charge premium prices… with some prices marked up by almost 50 per cent,” according to eShores.

Surprisingly, airport lounges might be the better deal. With “a basic pass starting from £20–£35 (€23–41),” you often get food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and peace and quiet – potentially cheaper than eating at the gate.

Have you been caught out by a “travel deal” that turned into a financial headache? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

View all travel news.