11 Hidden Travel Fees You Probably Overlook

From overpriced Wi-Fi to hidden departure taxes, you don't want to be strapped for cash when it comes to these often-overlooked fees. Make sure you include these 11 items when budgeting for your next trip.

(Photo: Money problems via Shutterstock)

Airport Transportation

Whether it's a cab, Uber, water taxi, shuttle bus, shared van, or train, you're spending at least $15 each way to get to and from the airport. If you're driving (unless you're getting dropped off) you'll have to pay to park your car at the airport too. And more likely than not, you're going to pick the most convenient option (i.e., the most expensive) when you arrive at your destination, because you'll be tired, rushed, and annoyed with your baggage.

What To Know: Look up the distance to your hotel and call ahead to see if they have any arranged airport transfers. Pre-book any shuttle services or shared vans if you can, and budget appropriately using fare estimates online. If you're going to take a cab or Uber, make sure to ask for a flat rate, as many times there are standard fees for airport trips.

RELATED: The World's Most Expensive Airport Taxis

(Photo: Taxi car waiting arrival passengers in front of Airport Gate via Shutterstock)

Entry and Departure Tax

Many countries have an entry and/or departure tax for coming into and out of said country. It can vary by length of stay.

What To Know: This is typically paid at the airport and is sometimes included in your airfare, so make sure to research before hand if this is the case. Most developing countries will not accept a credit card for this charge. Be sure to carry the payment in either U.S. dollars or the local currency when you're at the airport.

(Photo: Boarding pass and dollar banknote concept for travel expenses via Shutterstock)

Cell-Phone Data Usage

Chances are you'll be in some sort of situation on an international trip where you're going to need to use data roaming on your cellphone. Without an international plan or foreign country's SIM card, you will be left with hefty roaming charges.

What To Know: Put a basic international plan on your phone if you don't have it unlocked. Most basic plans start around $30 USD for a month and will give you "cheap" data in case of emergencies. If you do have your phone unlocked and will be traveling abroad for a longer period of time, it may be wise to get a SIM card for the country you're traveling in to avoid higher international plan fees.

RELATED: 10 Ways to Prepare Your Cell Phone for a Trip

(Photo: GPS. Black Smartphone with a GPS map. City Centre via Shutterstock)

Tipping

Each country is different. In some countries it's rude to tip, and in others it's rude if you don't.

What To Know: Research your destination beforehand with this trusty guide. In some countries (like Australia and New Zealand) you won't have to tip at all, which will save you money on meals out. In other countries, however, make sure to budget at least 15 percent into your meals for tipping. And don't forget service personnel—maids, luggage attendants, bartenders, and drivers will expect tips.

(Photo: Coffee Shop: Server Picking Up a Cash Tip via Shutterstock)

Parking and Tolls

If you're taking a road trip, you usually budget for gas and pit stops, but often forget about tolls. Parking fees can add up, too.

What To Know: Research your route for potential tolls and get a transponder like an E-ZPass (if applicable to your route). Make sure to have at least $40-50 cash on you before hitting the road for a long car ride, too. Always estimate on the higher end for parking fees, especially if you're planning on parking in the city, in which case you can never rely on street parking. If you are parking at a hotel, ask ahead of time for the parking fees per night to budget accordingly.

RELATED: 10 Best Apps for Road Trips

(Photo: Toll Road via Shutterstock)

Transaction, Currency Exchange, and ATM Fees

Depending on your bank and credit cards, you'll likely encounter both ATM fees and foreign transaction fees abroad. ATM fees are typically over $5 USD per withdrawal and foreign transaction fees can range from one to three percent. Travelex (and other currency exchange companies' ATMS, too) will also charge you an outrageous exchange rate (sometimes as high as 10 to 11 percent—the same you would pay at the retail exchange counter).

What To Know: Bank of America has a Global ATM Alliance, which includes banks in many European countries, Australia and New Zealand, China, and several Caribbean countries. In addition, many credit cards now offer cards with low or no foreign transaction fees, so if you travel a lot and are looking to open up a new credit card, do your research.

If you want to have cash right when you land and avoid airport exchange fees, it's best to order through your bank. Just make sure to give a few weeks' notice if you're heading beyond a common tourist country.

RELATED: How To Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

(Photo: Currency exchange booth at San Francisco International Airport via Kenishirotie/Shutterstock.com)

Higher Prices at Airports

Everyone knows prices are higher at the airport, so don't leave purchases like books, gum, magazines, neck pillows, and souvenirs to the last-minute. You'll also encounter higher checked bag fees with many airlines at the airport versus pre-checking online.

What To Know: Here's a list of things you can pack that will save you money at the airport.

(Photo: A general view of a shopping center in Dubai International Airport via Pavel L Photo and Video/Shutterstock.com)

Emergencies

While these are unpredictable, there are some precautionary measures you can take beforehand to make potential emergencies much easier. Without international coverage, you could face medical charges well within the thousands if an accident happens overseas.

What To Know: It's all about travel insurance. When taking a longer trip abroad, especially if you're traveling to developing countries, renting a car, or engaging in adventure activities, you definitely want to consider a travel insurance plan. We break it down for you here.

RELATED: Travel Insurance 101: What To Know Before You Buy

Accommodation Taxes and Fees

Ah, hidden hotel fees. From ridiculous mini-bar prices and overpriced parking to absurd Wi-Fi costs and "concierge" fees on your final statement, hotel bills are getting out of control. (Some hotels even charge for air conditioning.)

What To Know: Sites like ResortChecker and hotelwifitest will help you determine if your accommodation is a culprit of the undisclosed-fees squeeze. Check review sites, too, for honest and well-rounded opinions about location, views, hidden fees, and room conditions.

(Photo: Modern luxury hotel reception counter desk with bell via Shutterstock)

Local Taxes

Taxes vary by country and state, so don't be surprised if you don't pay tax on clothing in your home state but find you're charged up to eight percent in another. Be wary of these differences on things like car rentals, insurance, hotels, meals, clothing, and alcohol. Generally speaking, most foreign countries include taxes into the listed price of an item (e.g., on a menu or clothing tag).

What To Know: Think twice before shopping duty free, as generally speaking most items are less expensive at a major U.S. retailer like Walmart. If you make large purchases abroad, make sure you fill out the appropriate VAT forms at the airport to claim back your tax (although this is sometimes more work than it's worth).

Domestically, don't shop at chain stores that you can shop at in your home state if you have a lower sales tax.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Things to Do the Day Before Your Trip
• The Ultimate Packing List
• 10 Signs You Aren't Prepared for Your Trip

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ashley_stravel for more advice on travel hacks and destination ideas.

(Photo: woman shocked by expenses she is reading in a bill via Shutterstock)