Avoiding Post-Vacation Sticker Shock

Many people set aside a certain amount for their vacation, only to be surprised at how much they ended up spending.  The credit card bill comes in, and the reality hits home.  "Whoa, that vacation cost a whole lot more than I thought it would!" Never fear, there are ways to predict - and plan for - these "hidden costs":

1) Unforeseen Airline Expenses (my pet peeve....)

• Baggage fees (these can really add up when you travel with a family)
• Food & drinks
• Premium seating (If you want extra leg room, plan on paying for it)
• "Express" seating (the first few rows of coach on some airlines)
• Pillows, blankets, headphones

2) Excursions/Extras

• For cruise passengers, plan ahead for each port to determine how much additional spending can be anticipated.
• For resort guests, be sure to factor in your expected costs for snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, zip-lining, golfing etc.  Some resorts include many of these activities (yes, even scuba diving!). Most do not.  Be sure to evaluate exactly what is included.
• Spa services can be a wonderfully relaxing part of your vacation or cruise. Ask ahead for the spa menu, so that you know what each service will cost.
• Souvenirs (need I say more?)

3) Alcohol

• Cruise ships make lots of money from bar bills.  If you like to party every night, this can add up to hundreds of dollars over a week-long cruise.
• Hotels that are not all-inclusive, are going to charge you for each and every drink (see cruise ships, above)
• Resorts that are all-inclusive often include beer & liquor, but not bottled wine. If you like wine with dinner every night, plan on paying extra for it.

4) Transportation

• From the airport to your resort or ship (aka transfers)
• At your Destination (Dining out, shopping, sightseeing)

5) Tips

• Some "Super Inclusive" resorts prohibit tipping and include it in their pricing.  This is not the norm - most resort staff members, cruise ship workers, tour guides, bus drivers, etc. appreciate and/or expect a gratuity.
• Many cruise lines are now adding gratuities onto your room charges, often at a rate of $10 or $11 per person, per day.

6) Foreign Currency Exchanges

• Every time you exchange currency you will lose a little bit of value.  Pay attention to the posted rates to make sure you are exchanging at a fair rate.
• Credit Card fees can add up, especially if you make some big purchases.  Your credit card statement will reflect a foreign exchange fee for every time you use your card in a foreign country. Check with your card issuer before you leave to determine what the rate will be.

7) Car Rental Extras

• Even though you may have paid for and reserved your car in advance, taxes are often due at pick up.
• Your credit card may cover insurance in the US, but not in a foreign country.  Be sure to verify with the card issuer before you leave.
• Additional charges will apply for child seats, GPS, additional drivers. etc.
• Gas. Be sure you ask the rental car company how you will be charged for gas. Return the car with less than a full tank and you may be charged a premium for the missing fuel.

Plan ahead for these expenses.  They can add significantly to the total cost of your vacation (and your post-vacation blues).