Social feeds are packed with clever travel hacks. Yet in real life, many of these “bargains” turn into false economies: long lines, hidden fees, rising stress.
Hellotickets—the global platform for booking experiences in 130+ countries—analysed thousands of recent bookings. Verdict: 38 % of travellers admit they spent more in the end after following a supposedly genius tip.
Below are the five most common traps—and the genuinely smart moves that keep your wallet (and mood) intact.
1. Last-minute tickets are cheaper
- Reality: For top attractions, same-day tickets often run 10–20 % higher than those bought a few days ahead—and can sell out entirely.
- Better move: Book early or choose a flexible pass that’s free to change up to 24 h before entry.
- Reality: School groups and tour buses create the day’s first peak around 9 a.m.
- Better move: Go mid-afternoon (3–5 p.m.) with fast-track access—about half the wait, plus golden-hour light for photos.
3. Flying into the budget airport saves a ton
- Hidden cost: Longer transfers, pricey shuttles, tired kids.
- Better move: Compare door-to-door cost: main airport + short ride vs. secondary airport + hour-plus transfers. Nearly half the time, the central airport ends up cheaper overall once transport is added.
