With the UK steadily emerging from the pandemic, many individuals are eager to plan their long-awaited holidays abroad. However, amidst the excitement of travel, numerous unsuspecting travellers find themselves falling into costly traps due to simple mistakes that can result in added expenses, unnecessary stress and wasted time. It’s estimated that around two in five Brits are planning a foreign holiday this year, which equates to approximately 29 million people. To help travellers navigate these potential pitfalls, travel expert, Jane Bolton from Erna Low, has outlined the eight most common mistakes made by British travellers when journeying abroad and provided tips to help avoid them.
One of the common mistakes highlighted by travel experts is the failure to carefully read the fine print in car hire agreements. Many travellers overlook hidden charges, insurance exclusions or strict return policies that are often buried in the terms and conditions of car rental agreements. To avoid these unexpected costs, travellers are advised to thoroughly review all aspects of the agreement, including insurance coverage, deposit requirements and fuel policies. Additionally, purchasing an independent excess insurance policy in advance could provide better coverage and potentially save travellers money in the long run.
Another key mistake is forgetting to check in online or entering incorrect passenger details. Neglecting to check in online could result in additional charges at the airport, particularly with budget airlines like Ryanair that charge passengers who fail to complete online check-in. Similarly, errors in passenger details, such as using a nickname instead of the full passport name, can lead to significant issues at the check-in counter. Setting a reminder to check in online promptly and meticulously verifying passenger details can help travellers avoid unnecessary fees and complications during their journey.
Paying extra for seat selection when it may not be essential is another costly mistake highlighted by travel experts. Many airlines charge passengers for selecting seats, even though on quieter flights, groups are typically seated together automatically. By checking the airline’s seating policy in advance and arriving early for online check-in, travellers may increase their chances of sitting together without having to incur additional charges unnecessarily.
The rush to pack at the last minute can result in overpacking, forgetting essentials or exceeding cabin baggage limits, leading to additional fees or stressful situations at the airport. Planning packing in advance and gradually organising belongings over a few days can prevent such predicaments. Familiarising oneself with airline baggage policies, particularly concerning sports equipment or oversized items, can help to ensure compliance and avoid extra charges.
Travellers are also urged to be vigilant with their valuables at airport security to prevent misplacement or theft. Keeping valuables in a secure pouch within hand luggage, rather than loose in security trays, can help prevent items from getting lost or mixed up. Taking the time to double-check belongings after passing through security can further reduce the risk of leaving valuable items behind.
As mobile data roaming costs can quickly escalate, travellers are advised to be aware of potential charges for incoming calls, background app data and automatic updates. To mitigate these expenses, travellers should review their mobile provider’s roaming charges before embarking on their journey and consider alternatives such as turning off data roaming, using a local SIM card or purchasing an international data plan to manage costs effectively.
In today’s digital age, using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks can expose travellers to the risk of personal information being compromised by hackers. Disabling automatic connections to public Wi-Fi, avoiding the input of sensitive details on unsecured networks and utilising a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added security are recommended measures to safeguard personal data while travelling. Opting for mobile data or a secure personal hotspot can also enhance security when accessing the internet on the go.
Lastly, overplanning itineraries and failing to allow for spontaneity can hinder the travel experience by limiting flexibility and causing unnecessary stress when plans change. While pre-planning key activities is essential, leaving room for exploration and unplanned experiences can lead to delightful surprises and a more enriching travel experience. By being prepared, staying informed and making minor adjustments, travellers can navigate potential pitfalls, save both time and money, and ultimately enjoy a more relaxed and seamless holiday experience.