Travelling to other countries opens up your mind to different cultures, lifestyles, customs, etc. It can create a series of unforgettable memories for you.

Though, before starting any international travel it's best to know the hidden costs that could add up to a considerable amount at the end of the trip. You could be quite unaware of these costs but they might slowly multiply. So, let us go through these hidden costs.

What are the hidden costs of international travel and how to avoid them?

1. Exchanging currency

• You have to decide if you are exchanging money before you travel or if you plan to use your card to withdraw money from the ATM when you arrive in another country.
  
  

• Before you travel it's vital to research the best exchange rate. Many places that provide currency exchange facilities will buy back your foreign currency for free as you travel back home.
  
  

• When you use ATMs in other countries extra fees are charged as you withdraw cash. Always find out if your bank is a part of the network of international partners. This will help you avoid fees.
  
  

• While using the credit card a foreign transaction fee can be charged which is up to 3%. So always be aware of the associated costs. 

2. Additional taxes

• There are some additional taxes and fees to pay when you check in at a hotel.
  
  
• These are tourist taxes that are charged in some countries and are collected when you arrive at the hotel or at the home rental.
  
  
• Keep a budget for this extra tax when you book accommodation.

3. International charges for your phone

• When you use the phone in some other country, know the charges attached to it.
  
  
• Be careful since using the phone would add to your total bills and make your travel expenses.
  
  
• You should take a global sim that will be cheaper for calling and data usage. Some cards that have free roaming would help a great deal.
  
  
• Not using the phone can be a bit challenging in an emergency situation. Let’s say you lost your way or need to urgently call someone, in such a case having a phone comes in handy.

4. Cost of extra baggage

• Keep a weighing scale that will help you measure the weight of your baggage. If the baggage exceeds the permissible limit, you will have to pay extra charges.
  
  
• Yes, we all know that we carry souvenirs and buy some things for ourselves as well. This can accidentally add to the baggage and cross the allowed limits.
  
  
• Luggage scales are actually quite cheap and can avoid overweight baggage costs.

5. Room Service

• Room service costs a considerable amount of money and is a luxury as you get food and drinks in your hotel room.
  
  
• At times hotels fix sensors in the fridge and if you move something you will be charged. So, ensure that you have some snacks and a bottle of water in your room that you have bought from the local store.
  
  
• Thus, you won’t be charged a lot if you stay over for more than 4 days.

6. Tipping

• There are some rules related to tips in different countries.
  
  
• You could end up paying a large amount as tips or service charges.
  
  
• Guests who are staying at the hotel can advise you about the tipping amount.
  
  
• A travel guidebook will also have details about the etiquette. Before you visit a city make sure that you have this information.

7. Departure Fees

• At times departure fees are not included in the plane tickets.
  
  
• A few countries charge departure fees even though it's not your last destination.
  
  
• Let’s say you are travelling to multiple destinations in such a case the fee adds up quickly. Enquire with the airlines you travel to if departure fees are included with the flight.

8. Driver’s licence

• If you wish to drive in another country you are required to have a temporary driver’s licence. This is true only for some countries.
  
  
• It can cost a small amount but you need to make note of this rule. Enquire at the embassy of the country or you can ask the airline authorities.
  
  
• You are travelling to another country so it's important to know all the associated costs with regard to temporary driver’s licences.

You can ask the tour operator and destination management company to get a clear view of additional expenses. They are aware of the travel nuances.

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