The money-saving travel hacks that could end up costing you

Hack attack

Social media is full of them – travel hacks that promise big savings and insider shortcuts. But what seems savvy on screen can backfire in real life. In fact, new data from Hellotickets reveals that 38% of travellers actually spent more after following one so-called clever tip. From budget flights that turn into logistical nightmares to 'free WiFi' that racks up roaming fees, the pursuit of a bargain can cost far more than it saves.

Click through this gallery to discover 14 money-saving travel hacks that often end up costing you more...

Booking two single flights is cheaper than a return

At first glance, booking two one-way flights – sometimes called 'hacker fares' – can seem like a savvy move, especially if you're mixing airlines or aiming for flexibility. But on most long-haul routes return tickets are actually cheaper, thanks to airline pricing strategies that reward round-trip bookings. And there’s risk involved: if your outbound flight is delayed or cancelled your return leg isn’t protected, leaving you to rebook (and repay) on your own.

Dodge baggage fees by over-packing your carry-on

Avoiding checked-baggage fees by cramming everything into a carry-on might seem smart, but airlines are increasingly cracking down on cabin luggage. A leaked email recently revealed that some airport staff in the UK are earning bonuses of £1.20 ($1.59) for every easyJet passenger they catch with an oversized bag, and those passengers are then charged £48 ($64) to stow it in the hold. Ryanair's charges are even steeper – up to £75 ($100) per bag.

DIY booking is always cheaper than a travel agent

Booking with a travel agent might sound a bit 1990s – somewhere between fax machines and traveller’s cheques. But despite the rise of DIY travel planning, agents are far from extinct – and people are catching on to the fact that they can still save you serious money.

According to ABTA’s Holiday Habits 2024-25 report, almost two in five (38%) people booked their holiday with a travel professional in the previous year, up from 34% the year before. The perks of expert advice, round-the-clock support and pre-negotiated deals often beat the cheapest-looking booking site. So before you spend a weekend glued to flight comparison tabs, maybe at least ask for a quote.

Booking last minute gets the cheapest deals

The idea of bagging last-minute bargains might work for off-season hotel rooms, but it backfires with popular attractions. Hellotickets data shows that same-day tickets can cost 10-20% more – and that’s if there are any left.

Many high-demand experiences sell out completely, especially in summer or during school holidays. A better strategy? Book early or choose a flexible pass that lets you change plans up to 24 hours in advance. You’ll lock in a fair price and avoid disappointment.

Choose the cheapest flight, no matter where it lands

Low-cost flights to remote airports might save you cash on paper, but the reality can be costly. Long transfers, expensive shuttle buses and lost hours add up quickly – not to mention the stress if you're travelling with kids or luggage.

When you calculate the true cost, main airports work out equal or better for almost half of trips, says HelloTickets. Plus, they usually offer more transport options and get you into the city centre much faster.

Pay in your own currency to keep control of your spending

When you're abroad, whether at an ATM, restaurant or shop, you're often given the option to be charged in your own currency instead of the local one. It feels reassuring – after all, you know what you're spending. But this supposed convenience comes at a price.

Choosing to pay in your own currency triggers dynamic currency conversion (DCC), which lets the retailer or ATM set the exchange rate – often with a markup, in some cases as high as 13%. The smarter move is to pay in the local currency, so your bank handles the conversion, usually at a far better rate.

Rely on free WiFi to save on roaming charges

Relying solely on free WiFi might seem like a money-saving no brainer, but it often causes bigger issues. Patchy signals, slow-loading maps and glitchy QR codes are just the start.

Many travellers accidentally trigger roaming charges while trying to connect, leading to surprise bills for the sake of a quick email or map check. A smarter approach is to pick up an eSIM or prepaid data plan. It doesn't generally cost much and gives you reliable access on the go.

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Book with multiple layovers to lower the fare

On the surface, adding extra layovers might seem like a clever way to shave money off your ticket price. But once you factor in longer travel times, airport meals and the increased risk of delays or missed connections, it can end up costing much more than a direct flight.

Overnight layovers may require hotel stays, and multiple connections add stress. Unless the savings are significant or the layover is unavoidable, it's rarely worth the hassle or hidden costs.

Skip travel insurance because ‘your credit card covers it’

Some credit cards do include complimentary travel insurance – but that coverage is often pretty basic. Many card policies exclude essential protections like medical expenses, evacuations or trip cancellations unless you pay extra or meet obscure requirements.

The Financial Times also warns that most cards won’t extend cover to family members or travellers over certain ages, and frequently exclude high‑risk activities. Saving upfront isn't worth being slapped with bills in the thousands, or being stranded when the worst happens.

Wearing a money belt to keep cash safe

Keeping your cash and valuables on your person in a hidden money belt is a classic tip, but in practice they can do more harm than good. Fumbling under your shirt in public instantly flags you as a tourist – and experienced thieves know exactly what to look for.

Instead of relying on one pouch, spread out your valuables in discreet, secure spots like a zipped jacket pocket or inside your shoe. Smart storage beats awkward accessories every time.

Booking flights through a third party is cheaper

Booking flights through third-party sites might look cheaper at first glance, but the savings often disappear once you add essentials like luggage or seat selection.

A 2023 Which? investigation found that in all 28 spot checks, it was cheaper to book directly with the airline once extras were included – even when headline prices on sites like eDreams, Opodo and Gotogate appeared lower. In the words of Which? travel editor Rory Boland: "You are always better off booking directly with the airline."

All-inclusive means no surprise costs

All-inclusive packages can seem like the best deal – with meals, drinks, transfers and entertainment all rolled into one price. But unless you plan to stay inside the resort from sunrise to sunset, you could be wasting money.

The moment you decide to sample a local restaurant, grab a drink on the beach or book an excursion that’s not included, you’re paying twice. And let’s be honest – on a hot day, you might not even fancy lunch at all, making those prepaid buffets feel like sunk costs.

Arrive early to get the most value

Booking the first entry slot at a museum or attraction is often seen as a clever way to beat the crowds and get more time – and therefore more value – for your ticket. But in reality, it’s often one of the busiest times to visit (a lot of the time everyone had the same idea – including the coach trips and school groups).

Instead, check to see if your desired attraction offers discounted afternoon or 'twilight' tickets before you visit. At Paris’s Musée de l'Orangerie, for instance, tickets are discounted if you go after 6pm on a Friday. It's cheaper and quieter, and the perfect start to an evening out.

Hotels further out offer the best value

That budget hotel outside the city might save you £30 ($40) a night – but what about the £60 ($80) in taxis and two hours lost on buses? When you're spending more time commuting than exploring, those savings vanish fast. Being miles from the action can make the whole trip feel like a hassle, and a slightly pricier place in a well-connected area often works out cheaper overall anyway.