Flying is expensive enough – don’t add on to the cost of travel by spending all of your money in the airport. Save money at the airport and use that cash to enjoy time in your final destination. Here’s how to save money at the airport.
Weigh Your Luggage in Advance
Are you a heavy packer? Then make sure to weigh your luggage before you get to the airport.
Overweight baggage fees are ridiculously expensive – a suitcase that is just one pound overweight can cost you upwards of $150!
It’s just not worth it. Weigh your bag before you go, and be sure to leave a few extra pounds of spare space. That way, you can purchase a souvenir on your trip without having to pay an excess baggage fee.
Hitch a Ride
Airport parking is pricey – according to SmarterTravel, the average cost of airport parking is $30 to $50 a day. That adds up quickly.
Instead of paying for parking, leave your car in your garage at home. Ask a friend to drop you off at the airport, or book an Uber or Lyft for a fraction of the cost.
Avoid Paying for Water
Obviously, you can’t bring a full water bottle through airport security. You can, however, bring an empty water bottle.
Bringing a water bottle is a super easy way to save some money. Bottled water at the airport can cost upwards of $3. They charge so much because they know people will forget to pack a water bottle.
So, toss an empty water bottle in your bag. Once you are through security, fill it up at the drinking fountain.
Bring Your Own Snacks
Similar to water, snacks at the airport are much more expensive than anywhere else. And if you wait to buy snacks when you’re on the plane, you’ll pay even more.
Avoid this cost entirely by packing plenty of your own healthy snacks. Snacks like granola bars, nuts, and bananas are easy to toss in a bag and can tide you over until you land.
Avoid Paying for In-Flight WiFi
If you plan to work during your flight, you may consider buying in flight WiFi. However, this type of WiFi has two major drawbacks. Firstly, it’s expensive. Secondly, it rarely works!
Instead of purchasing WiFi, plan your work in advance. Print off copies to pack instead of working on the computer, or take screenshots of various things you need on the internet.
Bring Your Own Entertainment
When waiting around in an airport, it can be tempting to spend your time shopping. Or, you may consider buying a book or magazine to entertain yourself.
These items have enormous mark-ups. Avoid the unnecessary cost by bringing your own entertainment. A pair of headphones, tablet, or a book can spare you hours of boredom.
Rachel Slifka is a freelance writer and human resources professional. She is passionate about helping fellow millennials find success with their finances and careers. Read more by checking out her website at RachelSlifka.com.
