10 things you should never pay for on holidays
It’s funny how we spend so much time and energy budgeting our dream trip, but by the time we get over there we end up wasting a lot of it on unnecessary expenses. And in the end of the day, the more money that’s spent on these expenses, the less you can dedicate to your actual holiday. We’re going to look at 10 things you should never pay for on a holiday. Avoid these expenses and your next trip will be much richer (in more ways than one).
1. Unnecessary ATM withdrawal fees
Many ATMs overseas charge you for the privilege of using them, as well as exorbitant international transaction fees. Travel money cards ensure you will only be paying the minimum withdrawal fees when accessing your money.
2. Excess luggage fees
Avoiding these fees is as simple as reading the fine print. Before booking your flights, make sure you’re aware of circumstances that incur excess luggage fees and pack your bags lightly so if you do get a lot of souvenirs you won’t face the charges.
3. Wifi
A stable, secure internet connection isn’t too hard to come by in 2016, and if you’re smart you don’t have to pay for it. If your accommodation does charge for wifi, simply pop into a McDonald’s or Starbucks that generally offer free wifi to customers.
4. Tacky souvenirs
Unless you notice something that might be meaningful for someone close, tacky souvenirs are generally a waste of money (and will probably just get thrown out anyway).
5. Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but can be quite expensive depending on where you’re travelling. Try to book a hotel that offers a free breakfast buffet and save!
6. Calling home
It’s no secret that making an international phone call can cost a mint, but if you’ve got a wifi connection and Skype there’s no reason you can’t touch base for free!
7. Walking tours
Now this is a suggestion that’s a little controversial, but many cities offer free walking tours (often on a tip-based payment system) that are just as good as the paid ones.
8. Taxis
While there are exceptions (emergencies and travelling in underdeveloped countries) it’s generally much cheaper to skip the taxi in favour of public transportation.
9. Counterfeit merchandise
While the price is appealing, in the end of the day counterfeit merchandise really isn’t worth your while, and is generally produced by unsavoury means.
10. Food near tourist sites
You’ll never see a bowl of pasta cost as much as the one that comes from the restaurant next to the Colosseum, so try and avoid eateries surrounding major sites.
Have you every unnecessarily paid for any of these travel expenses? Do you have a trip on the cards, and if so where are you planning to go?
Image credit: Shutterstock