Of course, you might need a new pair of headphones because yours broke at the airport. In these cases, Woroch recommends using your phone to compare airport store prices with those listed online to determine which options offer reasonable prices. Otherwise, keep your wallet handy and fill your time with people watching.
“When your flight is delayed or you have a long layover, you may be tempted to start shopping to eliminate time and boredom, but nothing tastes better than shopping at the airport,” he said. “The prices at these boutiques and shops are higher than at regular places. Not to mention, you’ll be stuck with more luggage, which may cause you to pay more to check bags or pay for a bag that is overweight. ,
Packing the wrong things in your carry-on
“Another mistake people make at the airport, which costs them more money, is not understanding carry-on restrictions,” McGaig said. “For example, a customer recently took her perfume off at a security checkpoint because she packed a full bottle of perfume in her carry-on, which exceeded the 3.4 ounce carry-on rule. She had to run up to the car. Or she didn’t have time to send it home, so she wasted more money disposing of her perfume.
While you must pack carry-on-restricted items in your checked bag, you should be sure to pack your personal essentials in your carry-on bag.
“Carrying your things through airports is annoying, but if you’re checking a bag, make sure you have some essentials,” Wheaton said. “If your bag gets lost or you’re stuck at the airport for a long time, you won’t need to spend any money to buy items like a toothbrush, sweatshirt or charger for your phone.”
deprived of free facilities
A great way to deduct airport expenses is to pay attention to the free amenities you may be eligible for. For example, your airline loyalty program status may include vouchers or club access for certain itineraries. Same goes for your credit card.
“If you’re a frequent traveler, consider a credit card that will provide you with complimentary lounge access,” Wheaton said. “Choose a card that has lounges at destinations you normally visit. Although these cards typically charge an annual fee, if you are a frequent traveler, the perks can easily exceed the fee. Lounges typically have free food, beverages, Wi-Fi and are staffed with people who can help if you experience flight delays or cancellations. ,
Not being strategic about snack purchases
Even if you don’t have access to free meals at the airport, there are ways to reduce the money you spend on snacks during your trip.
“While the smartest thing to do would be to bring your own TSA-friendly snacks, sometimes we forget,” Dunavant said. “Make sure you buy your snacks at your gate versus in the air. Some in-flight meals must be pre-booked prior to flight, and snacks can arrive in the air at a much higher price point. On the ground. So do your gates. Save yourself some change by grabbing yourself the gifts at Hudson News or CIBO Express.
