Millions of Brits are preparing to travel abroad this summer, but hidden fees and questionable practices can catch out unwary holidaymakers. From cabin bag charges to seat reservation costs and apartment location tricks, here is a guide to avoiding holiday horrors.
Cabin Bag Rules and Oversize Charges
Airlines have strict rules on cabin bag dimensions, but many travellers get caught out by overstuffed bags. Ryanair has reportedly been paying bonuses to staff for spotting oversize cabin bags and is considering increasing this incentive. Other airlines allegedly pay £1.20 to staff for the same task.
Standard cabin bag size is generally 56 x 45 x 25 cm, with under-seat bags at 40 x 30 x 15 cm, but airlines can set their own limits. Weight restrictions typically range from 7 kg to 10 kg. Missing off wheels when measuring height is a common mistake. Bags that fit when empty may not when full, and must fit into the sizer at the gate to avoid extra fees.
Add-On Charges for Luggage and Seats
Booking luggage early is crucial, as prices rise closer to travel. Average costs include £40–£50 for a 23 kg hold bag one way, £30–£50 for an overhead cabin bag (nearly double last year), and £6–£25 for basic seat reservation. This totals £76–£125 each way or £152–£250 return. Specific seat booking can be even higher; one traveller reported being charged over £320 for two return seat reservations with British Airways.
Ryanair recently U-turned on its plan to charge £8 for families to sit with children after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced an investigation. Seat booking typically opens 24–48 hours before check-in, but websites and apps often crash due to high demand.
Apartment Traps and Misleading Locations
Online rental platforms can offer great stays, but caution is needed. Watch out for 'tickers' claiming limited availability, which pressure hasty bookings. Hotels allow complaints at reception, whereas private lets offer less recourse if the host is unresponsive.
Check photos thoroughly for advertised facilities, read recent reviews, and look for personal key handover as a sign of host quality. Location descriptions can be misleading: a property listed as '500 metres from the centre' may refer to a suburb, not the city centre. Cross-reference addresses on maps to verify proximity to main tourist areas.
