Once you have been quoted the best price for your chosen ticket, how do you know if everything is included? Here are the things to look out for:
Taxes Almost every country in the world levies airport taxes. These are not VAT as airline tickets are so far exempt. These are levied by either the airport themselves or the local government.
Some taxes are pre-paid (i.e. paid at the same time as your ticket). This is not a choice - or a choice of your travel agent. This has been decided by a higher force! Pre-paid airport taxes are based on exchange rates and so may vary so do not worry too much if you get quoted slightly different figures each time you phone!
Other taxes are paid locally so remember to keep back a little cash when you leave the country - or else you'll have a bit of a mission on your hands!
PSC Passenger Service Charges. More and more countries are starting to include pre-paid PSC's which are in addition to airport taxes. There has been a lot of debating about whether these relatively nominal charges will remain being charged but at the moment they seem to be here to stay and will be included with your taxes.
SAF Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. This is a nominal fee levied by the Civil Aviation Authority to protect you if your airline goes into liquidation. Some companies include it in their airfares but others like to show you that you have it.
Weekend Surcharge These are normally for one-way or return flights to and from the States and Africa, and include Friday as well as Saturday and Sunday. This should be included in the fare at the time of booking - not later.
Credit Card Surcharge Most travel agencies will pass this on to you. This is because surprisingly little money is made on airline tickets (As little as £17 on a return to Bangkok!). The fee is normally 1% so shouldn't break the bank too much but this can be avoided by paying in advance by cheque or using your Switch or Delta card - and of course good ol' cash!
Travel Insurance Not really an excess charge but worth getting (see our section on travel insurance). Do not be pressured into getting your insurance from the agents that sell you your flights. Take your time - look around and get the best deal that fits your trip.
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The Travellers Lounge recommends:
This is a very useful guide for travellers who want to get off the beaten track in Thailand.