Finding Hidden Holiday Fees

Filed in archive consumer issues , Travel Industry on June 15, 2010

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Airlines often have additional charges that often mislead travelers. Where luggage costs were free, it is now being charge. Before we know it, passengers will be charged for using the aircraft lavatory facilities.

Then hotels tend to follow suit with what airlines have been doing - adding charges for stuff that were normally free. Time will come, we will be charged for using the hotel swimming pools!

Anyways, here are the areas to look for hidden charges so as not to ruin to vacation budget:

1. Airlines

While check-in luggage was previously free, these days airlines charge up to $25 per suitcase. So if you are a traveling family of 4, check-in luggage charges is enough to put a dent to your vacation budget. So make pretty sure that you travel light at all times.

2. Hotels

Hotels were less likely to put in additional charges. However, they do tend to follow suit from what the airlines have doing. Swimming pools and gyms in hotels are expected to remain free of charge through 2010. But after that, who knows?

3. Bridges

When traveling by car, make note of the toll charges of bridges. New York's Verrazano-Narrows Bridge (connecting Brooklyn to Staten Island) has a toll of $11. Those driving on the Golden Gate Bridge must pay $6. The eight-mile Confederation Bridge (linking Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick, Canada) has a C$42.50 toll. Therefore budget-conscious travelers should put those kind of charges into consideration.

4. Entertainment

Getting entertainment tickets can cost 20% more than the amount you initially expected. For example, Ticketmaster charges a convenience fee, order processing fee and a facility charge in addition to the actual value of the ticket.