We’re approaching the time of year where the nights are getting longer, and the temperatures are starting to rise. But you can’t always rely on the famously fickle UK weather. Even in the height of summer we can still see torrential downpours and cold winds – either of which are enough to prompt anyone to think about booking a holiday.
Of course, the coronavirus pandemic meant major travel restrictions for long periods, but now that a sense of normality is returning we can all start to plan our trips with greater confidence.
Spain has long been a popular destination for people in the UK – between 2017 and 2019, more than 18 million travelled from these shores to Spain on an annual basis. Those numbers fell dramatically in the subsequent two years due to Covid but look set to return to normal levels in 2022.
However, if you are a planning a holiday there this year, it’s important to be aware of all the costs that could be involved. With that in mind, it’s vital that you weigh up your financial options before you travel and here we’ve outlined some of the major expenses that could catch you out.
Travel insurance
It’s something everyone should organise before they go away, because you just never know when an accident might happen. A lot of people feel that money spent on a policy is wasted, but if something were to go wrong and you had no cover then it could prove extremely expensive. So, it makes sense to factor the cost of insurance into your holiday budget.
Transaction fees
Be wary about where and how you use your credit or debit card when you’re abroad. Some providers will charge fees for usage overseas, which can soon add up over the course of a week or a fortnight. Your best bet is to exchange sterling for euros before you arrive and pay mostly in cash, unless you have access to a card that is free of transaction fees.
Roaming charges
During your holiday, you may want to switch off completely from the outside world and enjoy a clean break for a week or so. But if you do want to use your phone to browse the internet, scroll through social media or contact loved ones back home, make sure you know what the roaming charges are. These are likely to differ from one provider to another.
Taxes
If you’re heading to one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, such as Ibiza, be aware that there may be tourism taxes to pay. These are charged per person per night, so you should be able to figure out how much it’s going to cost before you arrive.