Even the most seasoned tourists can make travel mistakes when planning a vacation.
1. Overlooking Travel Medical Insurance
Christopher Elliott, founder of the nonprofit Elliott Advocacy, says many people don’t consider purchasing travel medical insurance. “People often think nothing bad will happen before or on their vacation, but then they get injured overseas and need to go to the hospital, and the next thing they’re looking at is a $10,000 hospital bill.”Unfortunately, most U.S. healthcare plans offer limited or no medical coverage outside the United States.
One solution is to purchase a travel medical insurance policy, a type of insurance that provides coverage for a range of medical emergencies while traveling abroad, including medical evacuation and emergency transport.
2. Getting Hit With Unnecessary Baggage Fees
A number of airlines recently raised their prices for checked bags. But one thing a lot of travelers aren’t aware of, Elliott says, is that some are now charging customers more if they check a bag at the airport versus paying to check a bag in advance.
3. Incurring Hidden Hotel Fees
Wi-Fi fees, early check-in fees, gym fees—hotels today charge guests no shortage of extra fees and surcharges.4. Not Utilizing a Key Search Feature on Airbnb
Like hotels, Airbnb rental property owners often tack on extra fees, such as cleaning fees, fees for additional guests beyond a certain number, and service fees. These additional costs can add hundreds of dollars to your bill.How to avoid: Elliott praised Airbnb for introducing a feature in December 2022 that allows guests to view a stay’s total costs, before taxes, when searching for rental properties. But he says there’s a caveat: “If you’re in the United States, you need to change a setting in order to see the full rate when you search for rentals.”
5. Paying Full Price for a Rental Car
The rental vehicle shortage has improved. Still, renting a car is more expensive than it was before the pandemic, especially for travelers who pay full freight.How to avoid: Big-box stores such as Costco, BJ’s and Sam’s Club provide their members discounts on certain rental cars. AARP and AAA also offer their members discounted rates. A number of credit card companies offer certain cardholders rental car discounts when they book a vehicle from specific rental car companies.
Tip: See if your credit card offers rental car insurance before you pay for insurance from a rental car company.
