The 10 Travel Mistakes That Most People Make (How To Avoid Them For A Better Trip)
Travel mishaps can occasionally lead to unexpected and delightful discoveries. However, more often than not, they simply drain your wallet.
Surprisingly, the priciest mistakes are often the ones you don’t even realise you’re making. Whether it’s booking poorly timed flights, failing to research properly, or following social media trends too closely, there are countless small ways you may be losing valuable travel funds.
Here’s a definitive guide to the most common (and often costly) travel mistakes. Avoid these, and you’ll have a better adventure.
1. Eating In Touristy Areas
This may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often travellers overlook this simple rule.
If you’re surrounded by fellow tourists, it’s best not to eat where they’re dining. Not only is the food likely to be less authentic, but restaurants in tourist hotspots often charge inflated prices.
A good rule of thumb? Locate the obvious tourist area, then walk a few blocks away. Congratulations, you’ve found where the locals eat!
2. Paying For Bottled Water
Not only is bottled water harmful to the environment, but it’s also an unnecessary expense.
Invest in a reusable bottle that clips onto your bag and refill it at water fountains or your accommodation.
If you’re in a region where tap water isn’t safe, consider purchasing filtration tablets or a portable purifier.
3. Booking The First Flight Deal You Come Across
Failing to research properly is one of the costliest errors you can make.
Even if you’re using a travel agent, take some time to compare prices online. A quick browse across a few comparison sites could save you significant money. Some of my favourite options in the UK include Kayak and Skyscanner.
4. Travelling During Peak Season
While it’s tempting to travel during the summer months, you’re not the only one with this idea.
Travelling in high season comes with drawbacks, including large crowds and higher costs.
Instead, try travelling during the months just before or after peak times. It’s usually less crowded, more affordable, and the weather is often still pleasant.
It’s not possible for everyone, but I’d recommend considering it if you can!
5. Using A Regular Browser To Book
A beginner’s mistake! Airlines, hotels, and booking platforms often track your searches through cookies and adjust prices accordingly.
If you’ve been repeatedly searching for the same flights or hotels, you might notice the prices gradually rising.
My advice? Browse in an incognito or private window, or clear your cookies before searching and making your booking.
6. Checking In Luggage
Checked luggage fees can be irritating and pricey. The easiest way to avoid them? Pack only a carry-on.
While this might not be practical for extended trips, you’d be amazed at how little you really need on most trips.
I once trekked through Scotland with just a small backpack, wearing the same clothes for days on end. Sure, I didn’t smell great, but I saved time and money.
If you’re concerned about laundry, try using a portable washing system like the Scrubba.
7. Booking Flights On The Wrong Day
Finding cheap flights is part art, part luck. There’s no foolproof method, but after a few years of travel, you pick up a few tricks.
Tuesdays are generally the cheapest day to book (because of lower demand), though this isn’t always guaranteed.
Many airlines also run flash sales on specific days, so it’s worth keeping an eye out. Additionally, the best time to book is usually between three weeks and three months before departure.
8. Not Learning The Local Language
It’s not only courteous to learn a few phrases in the local language, but it could also save you money.
Many destinations have separate prices for tourists and locals. Even if you only manage a few words, showing an effort can make a difference and sometimes help you avoid tourist pricing.
With smartphones making it so easy, there’s no excuse for not learning and using some basic phrases!
9. Leaving Data Roaming On
This one’s an easy mistake to make.
You’ve got three options for using your phone abroad: keep data roaming on (and face a massive bill in most cases), turn it off and search for free Wi-Fi, or buy a local SIM card.
The third option is generally the best. While it’s more expensive than relying on free Wi-Fi, a prepaid SIM offers more flexibility, and you can often buy one at a reasonable price.
10. Using Currency Exchange
If possible, avoid using currency exchange booths, especially at airports.
They tend to offer poor rates because they know travellers have little choice.
Instead, opt for a bank travel card or a travel credit card, which usually provides better exchange rates without the hassle of carrying large sums of cash – My go-to is Monzo.
