DURBAN - When planning your perfect vacation ensure that you have calculated all the costs before you book.
Little hidden cost like booking fees or car rental fees can put a dent in your travel budget. Do some research into possible fees before jetting off for your holiday and check your hotel bill before you pay and leave.
Cheapflights has some tips to prevent your budget holiday turning into an expensive excursion.
Booking fees
With many people choosing to book online, many airlines and travel sites charge people booking fees for those who prefer to book travel over the phone. Online bookings may also come will booking fees that you should be careful of.
One way to avoid booking fees is to shop around and to compare different prices. Make sure that you read all the fine print whether it is booking with an airline or a hotel.
Baggage fees
Avoid paying fees for luggage that is overweight. This can be prevented by weighing your luggage at home before going to the airport. You can lighten your load by removing an extra pair of shoes or outfit that is not essential.
When travelling back home from a holiday with a lot of luggage instead of paying for an extra bag at the airport inquire if so you can mail your purchases from your hotel.
This may the cheaper option than paying for that extra bag.
Or you think about upgrading your ticket to business or first class on an international flight. You will get more legroom and a bigger bag allowance.
Hotel fees
Hotels can charge a "hotel resort fee" when you are booking the hotel or when you checkout. This fee is actually a higher nightly rate hidden in the fine print. Even though you may have prepaid for your reservation, you can still find an extra 10% or more surcharge per night at checkout.
Other items that you might have to fees for including an airport shuttle, water, use of the safe or towels. Enquire about these kinds of services before you use them or book them to avoid having to pay for the extras when you checkout.
Car rental fees
Car rental users are so excited when they get their car they just grab their keys and forget to look at the car rental receipt. Take a moment to look at the receipt see if there are any additional fees that you may have to pay.
Fuel can be an extra car rental fee that you will have to pay if the car is not returned with a full tank of petrol. Other charges include late drop-off if you drop-off the car late or key replacement which can be a hefty fee to pay. To avoid losing keys ensure that the keys are on a keychain so if they fall you hear it fall and spot it easily.
Customs entrance/exit fees
Do research to see if you need a visa for the country that you are visiting. You may have to pay a fee for last minute visa processing. You can avoid this by applying for your visa in advance which can be done at the embassy or consulate.