Hidden vacation costs you need to know about

Dan Lecca

Travel has never been more expensive, thanks to the surging cost of fuel and the plunging value of the dollar. You don’t have to look any further than the airport to see it. Overpacking doesn’t come cheap these days, with most major airlines charging upwards of $25 per piece of extra luggage you check in. (That fee more than doubles if the luggage weighs in excess of 50 pounds.) Airlines, looking to nickel and dime passengers to offset rising costs, also now charge for everything from on-board snacks to in-flight movies. Worst of all, the surcharge surprises don’t end once you’ve exited the airport. On your next getaway you’ll likely get socked by hidden fees tucked away in the fine print. Bring plenty of patience and lots of extra cash for these common charges.

1. Rental Car Insurance
If you’re planning on being your own tour guide, you’ll probably need a rental car to do it. Most renters agree to the optional car insurance thinking it’s better to be safe than sorry. True, but you may be just as safe without it. In most cases, your personal car insurance extends to rental cars as well—check your policy first. No car back home? Then it’s a good idea to buy what they’re selling.

2. All-Inclusive Deals
Booking an all-inclusive package means you can relax and stuff yourself silly without worrying about the cost of every meal. But all-inclusive rarely delivers on the promise. It may say drinks included, but omit alcohol from the bargain. Some packages limit you to one dining facility only. If you want to sample the hotel’s other cuisine, you’ll have to pay for it. Be sure to ask what the all-inclusive deal doesn’t include.

3. Hotel Fees
Hotels are notorious for tacking on fees for everything from bottled water to an extra pool towel. Hotels made $1.75 billion in fees alone last year, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers. Didn't use the hotel gym or business center? Carefully review your itemized bill, then ask if they'll remove charges for unused perks.

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By Jihan Thompson - Career & Money Blogger - Marie Claire

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From the Community…

Comments 1 of 1

Posted by Igor Purlantov Sun Jul 27, 2008 7:36am PDT

One hidden cost that people often forget or simply just do not know about is the departure tax some countries charge in order for you to leave. This departure tax is found in countries that vary from Barbados to New Zealand so be sure to check ahead especially since the tax often has to be paid in cash and in the local currency.

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