How To Avoid Hidden Holiday Travel Costs

In Depth: How To Avoid Hidden Holiday Travel Costs

Chances are, you're headed to the airport sometime this holiday season, but not to visit a quiet, sandy beach (even if you deserve it).

Unlike travel seasons past, the upcoming one has more to do with visiting loved ones. In a Nov. 4 survey conducted by research firm Harris Interactive in conjunction with the Washington, D.C.-based Travel Industry Association, 71% of Americans said that spending extra money on travel during the holiday season is worthwhile--so long as it affords them time with family and friends.

But just because traveling may be the right thing to do this year, that doesn't mean it has to be the expensive thing to do. Traveling involves myriad hidden costs that, once you're aware of them, are easy to spot--and even easier to eliminate.

In Depth: Tips To Avoid Hidden Holiday Travel Costs

To start your trip on a frugal foot, consider transportation fees first. For example, if you're driving, fill up the gas tank before hopping on the highway, where it's much costlier, says Clarky Davis, a personal finance expert. According to NewJerseyGasPrices.com, a Web site that tracks prices across the state, on Friday at the Citgo Station at 86 Klockner Road in Trenton, N.J., a gallon of regular gas cost $1.61. At the Exxon on U.S. 130 South in East Windsor, N.J., a gallon of regular gas costs $2.59.

And make sure your car is in good condition by checking your heating vents, keeping up with routine maintenance and ensuring your tires are properly inflated, all of which help the car achieve optimum fuel economy. Furthermore, not only does a towed car cause inconvenience; it also means extra costs.

Small Costs Add Up
For those opting to fly, there are several ways to avoid extra fees. First, if you're driving to the airport, park in the long-term lot , which is usually just a shuttle ride away from the main terminal. While the short-term lot is usually closer to the terminal, it often costs up to $10 or more, extra, per day.

"Parking in the daily lot is tempting," says Davis, "but it's not worth it, even for a three-day weekend."