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and carry-on luggage, so measure and weigh your luggage carefully.
• • Expect to pay extra for things like changing flights, extra leg room, priority boarding, unaccompanied minors, pets, Wi-Fi access and food. Some airlines even charge extra to speak to a live person or to buy your ticket at the airport counter or by phone.
• • Airfarewatchdog.com, Travelnerd.com and Kayak offer great fee comparison charts for various airlines; but always double-check the airline's own posted rules before booking your flight.
• • Some hotels charge extra if you check in before a certain time. Ask whether they'll store your luggage for free until check-in so you can begin sightseeing unencumbered.
• • Many hotels charge a hefty penalty if you don't cancel a reservation 24 to 72 hours beforehand and some also charge an early-departure fee - sometimes the equivalent of one night's lodging. Read the hotel's cancellation policy before booking, especially if you're looking at a discounted, non-refundable rate.
• • Minibars often have electronic sensors that trigger a charge if you simply move the contents. Also, water or snacks sitting on the dresser may appear to be complimentary, but double-check before consuming.
• • Hotel parking in major cities can cost up to $50 a day, and many have mandatory valet parking, which means adding a tip on top of that. Research nearby municipal parking lots beforehand, or check the city's tourism bureau for hotels offering parking promotions. Sometimes using public transportation and taxis is cheaper overall than paying for parking.

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