Extra costs to think about when going on holiday | Royal Bank of Scotland

Here are some top tips when booking your trip:

• Always double check your flight booking, as extra charges can sometimes be added on to the total price - be on the lookout for check boxes selecting seat reservations, travel insurance and charity donations
• Check the location of the airport carefully - lots of destinations have more than one airport, and some are much further from the city centre than others
• Depending on where you’re going, you might also have to pay for visa or airport departure fees, so check these before you travel
• When you book your hotel, check for any extra energy or resort fees. Services like Wi-Fi, safes, laundry, and the tempting mini bar could come at an extra cost too

You'll find more tips in our going on holiday guide.

Don’t underestimate the cost of pre-holiday preparation when you’re budgeting. The average holidaymaker spends £156 preparing for their main annual holiday. Items like clothes, holiday products and beauty treatments all stack up. Every year 1,000s of customers set up a Savings Goal with us to put money aside for their holiday.

Think carefully about your packing and keep your itinerary at the front of your mind. 18% of overspending is the result of holidaymakers having to buy things they forgot to pack, so preparation is key. Our handy holiday checklist can help you make sure you're well prepared and haven't forgotten any of the essentials.

When changing currency, compare rates online in advance to get the most from your money.

Think about how you'll be getting to the airport - if you’re planning to park there, it can be cheaper to book in advance online. A taxi may be cheaper, so check this too and compare your options.

Check the baggage allowance for your airline - weighing and measuring your suitcase before you leave the house could help you avoid paying any extra baggage charges at the check-in desk. 

Bring your own food, headphones and pre-downloaded entertainment so you’re not tempted to splash out at the airport shops. 

It wouldn’t be a holiday without a day trip or two, but paying for museum tickets, public transport and attraction entrance fees can soon add up. Have a look for any discounts you can get by booking early, or if there is a tourist pass that includes public transport and entry to lots of attractions.

When eating or drinking out, remember that service and tips will sometimes be added to the bill. If you’re doing a spot of holiday shopping, check if the bargains you’re planning to treat yourself to are still as attractive once any tax has been added.

Make sure you read our guide to spending abroad to find out how you can register your travel details with us and keep track of your spending with our mobile app.