One of the ways to travel throughout New Zealand on a budget is to take domestic flights within the country. Though flying may seem like a cost-effective option, there are many extra expenses associated with traveling that are often overlooked by travelers.
These “extra” costs can change the value of what would have been considered an excellent deal to an unexpectedly high cost. To help you avoid extra costs and stay within your travel budget, here are five common airport fees that can be a surprise when searching for cheap domestic flights in New Zealand.
Reports say that their domestic tourism spending has fallen 2.5%, down to $27.5 billion. Continue reading this travel guide to save thousands of NZD, explore endlessly, and enjoy effortlessly!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- First, look for the baggage and seat selection fees.
- Some airports even charge for using credit cards.
- Airport taxes and in-flight purchases are sometimes not included in the ticket costs.
1. Baggage Fees: A Sneaky Expense
Baggage fees are one of the most prominent hidden charges when it comes to booking cheap domestic flights in New Zealand. Though many budget airlines have lower base fares, they traditionally do not include checked baggage in the cost. Furthermore, some airlines have been disorganized in assessing passengers for carry-on bags over a certain size or weight.
To prevent encountering these fees, analyze an airline’s bag policy before you book. Additionally, see if you can pack lightly and take a personal carry-on that meets the airline’s rules. Or you might want to just sign up for a fare that includes checked baggage if the overage is not unusual.
2. Seat Selection Fees: Picking Your Spot Comes at a Price
It sounds like a straightforward request, but selecting your seat on an airplane can carry an additional fee. There are hidden costs with practically all the airlines running cheap domestic New Zealand flights. In fact, booking a preferred location, like an aisle or window seat for your flight, is a chargeable extra.
You are not going to pay this premium, so choose a flight that includes a free seat choice or simply let the airline assign your seat for you (it’s free). If you are not particular about where you sit, this can save money on the cost of your flight.
However, in case you have your heart set on a particular part of the cabin, it might be worth forking out extra to make certain that you will not be sandwiched by the lavatory.
3. Credit Card Payment Fees: Hidden Charges at Checkout
Another sting in the tail that can really bring out your fury when you are booking cheap domestic flights in NZ is the credit card payment fee. Certain airlines charge a credit or debit card transaction fee when you pay for your tickets.
To circumvent this fee, pay another way, possibly with a bank transfer or debit card without a surcharge? If you need to pay with a credit card, make sure to investigate if the airline charges a processing fee before submitting your payment.
4. Airport Taxes and Charges: Factoring in Additional Costs
Many people do not realize the cost of airport taxes and charges when booking a flight, as they may be contained in the base airfare; other times, you will just see them later on with no explanation. The fees go immediately to the airport and are used to fund infrastructure like terminals, tarmacs, and security systems.
They are a basic feature of air travel, but they differ from airport to airport. When looking for a discount domestic flight within New Zealand, do not forget to check the full cost of the fare along with all its add-ons, including taxes and airport surcharges.
Some airports charge higher fees than others, adding dramatic costs to the price of your flight. Please note that both fees are also indisputable, but it does not hurt to know them before you budget your travel accordingly.
5. In-Flight Purchases: Food and Drink Costs
When looking for cheap internal flights in New Zealand, don’t forget to include your meal and drink costs. The snacks and drinks are predominantly overpriced in-flight on most of the budget airlines. That plain sandwich or bottle of water could end up costing more than you would expect.
Carry your snacks and drinks, if you can manage without, or an extra suitcase for them aboard the flight to keep from purchasing expensive airport fare. Some airlines also allow you to pack your food and snacks, which can save you money and time on board.
Conclusion
Cheap domestic flights in NZ are a great cost-saving way to travel, but please keep in mind there may be additional costs (such as airline fees and baggage costs), which can suddenly make your trip pricier than you thought. Know about baggage fees, seat reservation charges, credit card payment charges, airport taxes, and in-flight purchases, and make a good decision to get where you’re going without blowing your entire travel budget!
If you’re ready to fly again, make sure your website source, like BookMyTrip, has no hidden fees and that the front page displays everything in total price. That way, you can go and explore New Zealand from top to bottom, knowing nothing unexpected is going to get in the way of your fun.
A little advanced analysis and understanding of what these charges are about, though, will help you avoid them more efficiently and have the absolute fun along the way as you embark on your budget-friendly getaway.
What are the most common hidden fees in NZ domestic flights?
Checked baggage, airport check-in, payment processing, and meals have most of the hidden fees.
How can I avoid baggage fees?
Carry lightweight items (or as per maximum weight guidelines), and prefer to wear heavy items rather than packing them inside.
Should I pre-select seats?
Only if there is an offer worth the price for you.
