Family holidays are meant to be fun, memory-filled, and maybe even a little chaotic.
However, sometimes the biggest surprises aren’t the weather or the kids’ moods, they’re the things you didn’t plan for. Sadly, those slip-ups usually hit your wallet harder than you’d think. Here are some of the most common money wasters that many families tend to make when booking (and going on) their trip.
1. Booking the cheapest place instead of the most practical one
That super affordable flat might look tempting, but if it’s miles from the beach or city centre, you’ll spend the savings on taxis, buses, or rental cars. Plus, the daily hassle adds up—not just in cost, but in energy. Sometimes paying a bit more for location saves you more in the long run. You’re not just paying for the space—you’re paying for convenience, walkability, and fewer transport tantrums.
2. Skipping travel insurance to save money
It feels like an optional extra—until someone gets sick, your bag goes missing, or your flight gets cancelled. Suddenly, that £30 policy would’ve saved you hundreds (or more). Families are especially vulnerable here. One unexpected issue can derail everything. Travel insurance is one of those things you hope you don’t need,, but will be seriously glad you have.
3. Overpacking and paying extra for luggage
When you’re travelling with kids, it’s easy to think you need everything “just in case.” But overweight bags and multiple checked suitcases can add serious costs, especially with budget airlines that charge for every kilo. Packing light isn’t just about mobility. It’s about avoiding extra fees, long waits at baggage claim, and the stress of hauling more than you need. Plan outfits. Share toiletries. Keep it tight.
4. Not setting a food budget, and winging every meal
Food costs can spiral fast, especially when you’re grabbing last-minute snacks, impulse meals, or trying to keep everyone happy at once. If you’re eating out for every meal without a plan, expect the bill to sneak up on you. Even just planning breakfast at the accommodation or packing lunches a few days can save a ton. It’s not about skimping; it’s about being smarter, so the treat meals actually feel like a treat.
5. Not checking mobile data or roaming settings
Streaming cartoons on 4G to calm the kids? Using Google Maps on the go? That’s all great—until the roaming bill hits and your “affordable” holiday suddenly feels painful. Before you travel, double-check your data plan, download maps and shows in advance, and consider local SIMs or travel eSIMs if you’re going abroad. The costs for getting it wrong aren’t always visible until you’re home, and by then, it’s too late.
6. Booking activities before checking age limits or family deals
Nothing hurts like paying for an experience, only to find out your child’s too young, scared, or bored to enjoy it. Or worse, that there were family discounts or group tickets you missed out on. Always read the fine print, especially for theme parks, excursions, and museums. Some are free for kids under a certain age. Some are really only suitable for older teens. Booking blindly means risking both wasted money and tears.
7. Forgetting to factor in transport to and from the airport
It’s one of those costs that hides in plain sight. You plan the flights, the hotel—but forget the taxi to the airport at 4 a.m., or the shuttle on the other side that isn’t included. For bigger families, these costs double or triple fast. Plan this part like it’s part of the holiday, not an afterthought. Shared transfers, local trains, or even parking deals can save you more than you think.
8. Assuming kids will love everything you plan
You’ve booked the perfect itinerary. Beaches, hikes, museums, markets… and then your kids melt down halfway through day two. The tours go unused. The entrance fees wasted. The day, gone. Kids have limits. Sometimes they’d rather splash in a pool than see another “must-see” landmark. Planning downtime or letting them help choose one or two activities can keep things smoother, and avoid paying for experiences no one ends up enjoying.
9. Over-relying on cards and forgetting cash in key spots
You assume everywhere takes cards… until the ice cream stall, beach locker, or family-run café doesn’t. Cue ATM withdrawal fees, currency exchange mishaps, or awkward moments trying to get by without enough on hand. Bring a small mix of local cash, even if it’s just for little daily things. It can save you unexpected charges and give you more flexibility, especially in smaller towns or off-grid spots.
10. Leaving everything to the last minute
Whether it’s booking transport, printing documents, or grabbing essentials at the airport shop, last-minute planning always costs more. You’re buying under pressure, and that rarely works in your favour. Families especially benefit from a buffer. More time means more options, less stress, and fewer inflated prices for things like transfers, snacks, sun cream, and forgotten chargers. The earlier you prep, the more you save—emotionally and financially.
