When you’re already paying a premium for flights, accommodation, and activities, those little extra costs can feel like the last straw. The good news? With a bit of planning, many of these surprise expenses can be avoided — keeping more in your budget for the fun parts of your trip. Here’s a smarter look at lesser-known costs that can sneak up on families, and how to sidestep them.

1. Extra Airline Add-Ons That Can Inflate Costs by 60%

Low-cost fares often look tempting — but extras like checked baggage, seat selection, and onboard meals can quickly add up. A study found Australian travellers can end up paying over 60% more than the initial ticket price once these extras are included.

Parent tip: If travelling with kids, it’s worth comparing “all-in” fares from full-service airlines to see if the total works out better value. Airlines like Virgin Australia, Qatar Airways, and Air New Zealand often include baggage and seat selection, which can make boarding smoother for families.

2. Airport Transfers That Cost More Than Expected

It’s easy to focus on flight and accommodation prices while forgetting how you’ll get from the airport to your hotel or holiday rental. Last-minute taxis or rideshares can cost significantly more, especially if you need a larger vehicle to fit prams, car seats, and luggage.

Parent tip: Book airport transfers in advance through your accommodation or a reputable service. Many hotels offer family-friendly shuttles with car seats included — and booking ahead can save money and stress after a long flight.

3. Camper & Caravan Site Surcharges for Kids (and Sometimes Pets)

Camping can be budget-friendly… until you find out you’re being charged per child, sometimes up to $50 a night, even if you bring your own gear. For families with multiple kids, this can quickly add up to more than a motel stay.

Parent tip: Always ask for a full breakdown of costs before booking a site. If you’re not planning to use facilities like the pool or kids’ club, check if there’s a reduced rate. And don’t forget to compare motel or cabin prices — sometimes they’re better value and more comfortable after a long drive.

4. “Drip Pricing” and Resort-Style Fees in Accommodation

In some destinations, you might see extra “resort fees” for things like Wi-Fi, pool access, or gym use. These charges can add 10% or more to your nightly rate and often appear late in the booking process. While not yet common in Australia, they’re worth watching out for overseas trips.

Parent tip: When booking online, filter results by “total price” if possible. Always check the final cost before paying, and keep an eye out for small-print extras.

5. Airline Extras Through Third-Party Sites

When booking flights through online travel agencies (OTAs), extras like baggage or seat reservations can sometimes cost more than booking directly with the airline. The difference can be significant — especially for families needing multiple seats together.

Parent tip: If you use an OTA for your flights, check the airline’s website before adding extras. Buying directly from the airline is often cheaper and lets you manage your booking more easily if plans change.

Travelling as a family is already an investment — but being aware of these lesser-known costs means you can plan ahead and keep your budget for the moments that matter most.