Traveling is one of those things where you learn by doing—and sometimes by accidentally burning a hole in your wallet.
Whether it’s an extra charge you didn’t see coming or an avoidable mistake you’d rather forget, we’ve all had those moments that leave us wondering, “How did that happen?”
But don’t worry, because I’m about to share some of my most expensive travel lessons.
Maybe you’ll laugh (and save some money) along the way!
1. Not Comparing Prices for Flights
So you’ve booked your flight in a rush, thinking you’ve found a deal that’s too good to pass up. But when you check other sites, you realize the same ticket is 20% cheaper elsewhere. Yep, that happened to me.
Flights can fluctuate in price like crazy, and if you don’t compare them across a few websites like Skyscanner, you’re setting yourself up for an expensive surprise. Take your time, check different options, and consider flying at less popular times. Your bank account will thank you!
2. Relying Too Much on Credit Cards with Foreign Fees
A good credit card can be your best travel buddy—unless it has hidden foreign transaction fees. I learned this the hard way on a European trip when I got hit with an extra 3% every time I swiped my card.
That might not sound like much, but trust me, it adds up faster than you think. A simple fix? Get a card with no foreign transaction fees before you travel. It’s like giving yourself a little financial cushion.
3. Forgetting About Luggage Fees
We all know airlines charge for luggage. But what I didn’t realize was how quickly those fees can stack up. I packed way too much, thinking I could make it work with one carry-on, only to discover that I was just a few pounds over the limit.
That “cheap” flight? Ended up costing me an extra $50 for baggage. If you want to avoid paying for that extra baggage, weigh your luggage before heading to the airport and be strategic about what you pack. You’ll save both time and money.
4. Falling for Tourist Traps
You’ve probably seen those bustling restaurants with their bright “Tourist Menu” signs, and let’s face it, they can be hard to resist. I once found myself eating a bland (and overpriced) meal in a place that looked like it was straight out of a tourist brochure.
Sure, the view was lovely, but my wallet wasn’t having it. The trick is to step a little off the beaten path. Look for spots where locals eat and check reviews before sitting down. You’ll enjoy a far better meal without the sticker shock.
5. Skipping Travel Insurance
Ah, travel insurance. It seems like one of those “optional” things you can skip… until you need it. After a last-minute flight cancellation turned my entire vacation into a stressful scramble, I realized that skipping insurance wasn’t the best idea.
Travel insurance can seem like an extra expense, but it’s a lifesaver when things go sideways—whether it’s a delayed flight, a stolen bag, or an unexpected medical bill. It’s one of those costs that will save you much more in the long run.
6. Not Pre-booking Activities
I once showed up in Rome thinking I’d “wing it” and book activities as I went. Big mistake. Many of the top attractions were either sold out or required a higher price for last-minute bookings.
Instead of being spontaneous, I ended up settling for less exciting options and paying more. Next time, I’ll pre-book tours, tickets, and activities online before arriving. Not only will you save money, but you’ll skip the stress of waiting in long lines.
7. Overpacking and Paying for Overweight Bags
I’ve been there. I thought I needed 15 outfits for a weekend trip. Spoiler alert: I didn’t. The extra clothes only weighed me down (literally) and caused me to go over the weight limit for my luggage, incurring an extra baggage fee.
Packing light isn’t just for minimalist gurus—it’s a smart way to avoid hefty baggage fees. Stick to versatile clothing and only pack what you truly need. Your back—and your budget—will thank you.
8. Not Using Public Transportation
Sure, taxis are convenient, but they’re also notorious for draining your travel budget. After a few days of hopping into cabs, I realized I’d spent the equivalent of an extra flight’s worth of cash.
Public transportation might seem intimidating, but most cities have reliable systems that are easy to navigate. Save some money by hopping on a bus or metro instead of relying on those pricey taxi rides. Your wallet and your feet will appreciate the workout.
9. Booking Last-Minute Accommodation
When you book your hotel the night before, you’re playing a dangerous game. On one trip, I got stuck with an overpriced, underwhelming hotel because I procrastinated on booking in advance. The truth is, hotel prices soar when you wait until the last minute.
Plan ahead, and you’ll find better rates and better accommodations. Bonus points for booking during the off-season or looking for deals on apps or discount sites. That’s how you secure a great place to stay without breaking the bank.
Final Words
Mistakes are a part of travel—especially the expensive ones. But by learning from these little slip-ups, you can make smarter choices next time you’re out exploring.
The goal isn’t to avoid all mistakes (where’s the fun in that?), but to keep them from costing you too much along the way. By being a little more prepared, you’ll have more money to spend on the things that really matter: experiencing the world and making memories.