Top summer travel bugbears and how to dodge them

Summer’s here, and it's time for those long-awaited holidays. But let’s be real, getting to your dream destination can be a hassle. From overpriced airport snacks to sneaky extra fees, our latest study of 2000 flyers revealed that these travel annoyances can really put a damper on your trip before you even hit the beach. Don't worry though — we've got some handy tips to help you avoid these common travel bugbears and keep your holiday stress-free.

1. Airport snack prices

Bugbear: Ever felt like you need to take out a loan just to buy a sandwich at the airport? Those food and drink prices are no joke and scored as the top annoyance for 58% of travellers. Most budget airlines also don’t include food in the ticket price for short-haul journeys, so you’ll have to pay on board if you get hungry.

Solution: Bring your own munchies! Pack some snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit. And don’t forget an empty water bottle — you can fill it up at a fountain once you’re through security.

2. Extra charges for heavy bags

Bugbear: Getting slapped with a fee because your bag is too heavy is the worst. 24% of travellers have had to pay extra because their luggage was too heavy, making them feel annoyed (54%), frustrated (42%), and sometimes even absolutely fuming (24%).

Solution: Invest in a portable luggage scale and weigh your bags before you leave home. If you're traveling in a group, share the luggage between yourselves to avoid extra charges for someone. And make sure to pack lighter on the way out to make room for the souvenirs and gifts on the return journey.

3. Paying to pick your seat

Bugbear: Shelling out extra cash just to choose your seat? Annoying, right? Especially if you're traveling with family or friends.

Solution: Beat the system by checking in online as soon as you can — usually 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This way, you can often snag your preferred seats without the extra cost.

4. Overpacking and holding up the line

Bugbear: We've all seen it (or been it) — the person repacking their suitcase at the counter because it's too heavy. Over-packing holds up the queue and 22% of travellers have had to re-pack at the airport.

Solution: Make a packing list and stick to it. Use packing cubes to keep everything organised and double-check those weight limits before you head out.

5. Sneaky currency exchange fees

Bugbear: Changing money at bad rates can really cut into your holiday spending money. Higher than expected currency exchange fees and ATM withdrawal fees are big annoyances.

Solution: Use a bank account or credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Avoid exchanging foreign currencies at the airport as they often have less favourable exchange rates and charge fees. Plan ahead and check the exchange rates a few weeks before your journey for the best rates.

6. Parking fees at the airport

Bugbear: Parking at the airport can cost as much as your flight if you're not careful. Short stay car park fees are another common annoyance.

Solution: Book your parking spot online ahead of time to get a better rate. Or, skip the hassle altogether and take public transport or a ride-share.

7. Last-minute essentials and the 100ml liquid rule

Bugbear: Forgetting something and having to buy it at the airport can feel like daylight robbery. Plus, nothing's worse than having your favourite lotion confiscated at security because it’s over 100ml.

Solution: Make a checklist of must-haves before you pack. Always keep travel-sized toiletries and a spare phone charger in your carry-on to avoid those pricey airport shops. Transfer your liquids into travel-sized bottles and keep them in a clear, resealable bag.

8. Roaming charges in the EU

Bugbear: Using your phone abroad and coming home to a monstrous bill? No thanks. This is a biggie with 39% finding EU roaming charges the most unfair, 31% feeling frustrated by it, and 59% worrying about it before they travel.

Solution: Get yourself a mobile plan that includes EU roaming. SMARTY Mobile’s got you covered with up to 12GB of EU roaming in all our SIM plans. That way, you can stay connected without breaking the bank.

Travel smarter with SMARTY this summer

Traveling should be fun, not a string of annoying surprises. With a bit of planning and these easy hacks, you can sidestep those common travel hassles. Plus, with SMARTY Mobile’s up to 12GB of EU roaming included in our SIM only plans, you won’t have to worry about sky-high phone bills while you’re soaking up the sun.

👉 Check out SMARTY’s latest SIM only deals today.