Oops, you’ve overspent without realizing it—7 common “unnecessary” extra expenses while traveling

Text & Photos /Dextalk – Hiking, Chopping Wood, and Traveling the World

With the rise of more budget airlines, the cost of traveling has significantly decreased, and more people are embarking on budget trips. However, for those traveling on a budget, it’s best to avoid unnecessary expenses whenever possible:

1. Reduce baggage check-in fees

Often, the base fare of a budget airline isn’t too expensive, but their additional services, such as checked baggage fees, can be quite high. However, if you’re only carrying a backpack or a carry-on bag, there’s no need to check in any luggage. If you must check in luggage, buy the service in advance and be careful not to exceed the weight limit—on-site purchases for checked baggage will cost even more, which could increase your overall travel expenses.

2. Bring your own water bottle

You probably know that you can’t bring liquids through departure security, so bring a reusable water bottle instead. Not only can you use it during your trip, but you can also fill it up at the airport, where drinks are often nearly twice as expensive as those off-site. There’s no need to waste money on overpriced beverages.

3. Carry energy-boosting snacks

Most regular airlines include meals, but if you’re flying a budget airline, you’ll need to purchase meals separately—and you know they’re both pricey and not very tasty. It’s better to prepare your own. Unfortunately, many low-cost carriers now have rules against bringing outside food, so be sure to check their regulations before you pack.

4. Avoid overseas data roaming

When traveling abroad, remember to turn off your phone’s data to avoid roaming charges. There have been numerous news reports about people forgetting to do so and ending up with astronomical bills—this is purely due to carelessness. Once you arrive, you can buy a local SIM card. If that’s too expensive, try to use free Wi-Fi whenever available.

5. Ask for prices and check your receipts

While traveling in Sri Lanka, I was once charged double at a restaurant—but fortunately, I had asked about the price before ordering, and they eventually refunded the extra money. Sometimes shady businesses take advantage and overcharge when you’re not paying attention. Whenever possible, ask for clear pricing and double-check your bill before paying.

6. Shop less at popular tourist spots

Popular tourist attractions naturally have higher prices due to the concentration of visitors. Don’t buy non-essential items at these sites. Also, when shopping during your trip, don’t forget to bargain—you might get a much better deal than you expect.

7. Reduce overseas ATM withdrawals

There are many ways to pay while traveling abroad. If you want to avoid carrying too much cash, using a card sometimes comes with discounts, whereas withdrawing money from overseas ATMs usually incurs transaction fees. Use alternative payment methods if you can. Also, when exchanging local currency, avoid doing it at the airport—the exchange rates there are typically much worse than elsewhere.

Of course, it’s not about cutting costs on everything. If you’re pinching pennies throughout your entire trip, you’ll miss out on the joy of traveling. Spend where it matters, but save where you can.

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