Travel sites hidden fees can add up

UPDATED 12/6/2011:

Lots of travelers use websites like Expedia, Orbitz, and Travelocity because they are convenient, and can be counted on for low prices.

But a number of vacationers have been surprised this year by an unexpected charge when booking through one of these sites.

Found a Great Fare

John Phillips was booking a trip to New York, and decided to try a travel site that would handle everything for him.

"I thought it would be good to go on Travelocity and compare flights and rates as well as car rental."

He says Travelocity had a great deal. So he gave his credit card, and thought he was all set, until he realized the final charge was higher than his quote.

John said "I printed it out, and then I realized they had in fact automatically charged us and provided trip insurance at $20 per person. So that was an extra $40 over what I had been expecting."

He had purchased trip cancellation insurance, even though he never wanted it, and says he never clicked a box to buy travel insurance.

Opt Out Feature

It turns out Travelocity uses what's called an "opt out" on travel insurance, according to CNN Travel.

The box is already checked when you book a package. You have to click "no" if you don't want to pay the $19.95   If you miss it, you pay.

Update 12/6/11:  Travelocity  now says it will remove this hidden fee starting in January 2012, and will offer anyone who doesn't want it a refund of the amount charged.

But John feels it's a bit sneaky, and says next time he will take more time before clicking the purchase button.

The Bottom Line

But other sites continue to add fees.

Rental car companies may not tell you abou t airport fees, that can be $10 or more a day.

And many hotels don't disclose $25 per day Resort Fees upfront, unless you ask.

So with any travel site, read the terms and conditions before you click purchase.

Pay particular attention if you see a box checked that you don't remember checking. If you find it after you have been charged, contact the travel site immediately. It may be reversable.

And that way you don't waste your money.

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