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Make your travel dollars go further by detecting and avoiding these expensive slip-ups
Don’t waste money on costly rip-offs when you travel
Don’t let the price of a trip get out of hand due to sneaky add-ons and foreign scams. Watch out for common practices that will leak money out of your pockets.
Firstly, be aware of excess baggage charges. Know what the airline luggage weight limit is and get yourself a luggage scale. Over-packing can cost you anywhere from $50-250 extra dollars. Also, some airlines will charge you an extra $30-50 per kilo over the limit.
Many people consider seat selection charges to be a rip-off. Unfortunately, it’s hard to find an airline nowadays who ‘doesn’t’ charge for this service. There really isn’t a way to avoid this. Essentially not shelling out that extra 30 to 40 dollars may mean that honeymooners flying economy could spend their flight in different rows. Not very romantic!
The next thing to watch out for are unofficial taxis. They make their money through unstated charges, longer routes and by shortchanging passengers. Check to see if the taxi is marked and if there is a visible license.
Another rip-off you’ll encounter is the pricing at dining establishments in tourist areas. There are usually major mark-ups in these areas because people will eat there out of convenience. You might have to bite the bullet once in a while, but whenever you can, try to eat where the locals do. Not only will it cost you less, the food is usually much better.
When in restaurants – especially in Europe – be aware that items you assume would be free, like bread or mineral water, will be offered to you and will then show up on your bill. If you are unsure, gently refuse any items you did not ask for.
Mexico & Caribbean – Single Travel from Vancouver Air, 7 nights all-inclusive hotel, transfers (based on single) Select departures $445 + $316 tax
Transatlantic Cruise May 4, 2014 Air from Vancouver, 14 night cruise, 1 night hotel and transfers Cruise Only option available $1349 + $545 tax
Amazing Shanghai Plus Tour February 10, 2014 Air, 6 nights hotel, most meals, tour with English speaking guide & transfers $598 + $528 tax
For more deals visit www.travelbestbets.com or sign up for for deals by email. Smartphone users can also download the free app here.
Claire Newell is the travel media expert for Global BC, host of the travel series Operation: Vacation, best-selling author, spokesperson, wife and mother of two. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
