Some vacation extras sound exciting when planning a trip, but parents often learn the truth later — the cost stacks up faster than the fun. After a few attempts, many say never again, realizing simplicity often brings more joy than pricey upgrades.
From rushed photoshoots to disappointing “VIP” access, these add-ons can leave families wishing they saved the money for ice cream or an extra night away. Here are 11 vacation extras parents are officially done paying for.
Overpriced Theme Park Photo Packages
Theme parks promise magical memories, but their photo packages can be a financial trap. Parents often regret spending on expensive photos they could easily capture themselves.
The quality rarely justifies the cost, especially when smartphones can snap similar moments for free.
Instead, many choose to capture candid memories, focusing on the experience rather than staged shots.
Resort Cabanas They Barely Use
The allure of a private cabana fades fast when kids prefer splashing in the pool or exploring. Many parents find these pricey rentals go unused.
Children rarely sit still for long, making the investment hard to justify.
Opting for a regular lounge chair or picnic blanket often suffices, leaving more room in the vacation budget.
Mandatory Resort Meal Plans
Prepaid meal plans promise easy dining but often fall short in quality and variety. Kids’ picky eating habits make these plans tough to justify.
The rigid schedule and limited options can become more of a hassle than a help.
Going à la carte offers more flexibility to explore local eateries or cater to changing tastes.
Expensive Hotel Parking
Parking fees at hotels can sneak up on the budget. Parents often find the cost outweighs the convenience.
Exploring alternative parking nearby can offer significant savings.
Walking a few extra blocks or using public transit can become an adventure, turning a tedious task into part of the travel story.
Souvenir Cups and Refill Deals
Souvenir cups seem like a fun keepsake, but often end up collecting dust. The initial charm fades as practicality kicks in.
Kids might enjoy the novelty for a day, but parents soon realize they add clutter.
Refill deals rarely turn out as convenient as advertised, making the purchase less valuable over time.
Premium Seat Upcharges on Short Flights
Paying extra for better seats on short flights rarely enhances comfort. Parents discover the difference often feels negligible.
With kids in tow, the premium doesn’t add enough value to justify the cost.
Many families choose to save money and endure a few hours of standard seating instead.
Paid Beach Chairs and Umbrellas
Renting chairs and umbrellas at the beach can quickly drain the wallet. The fees often surpass the convenience.
Families find bringing their own gear offers the same comfort without the recurring cost.
Portable chairs and umbrellas provide flexibility, allowing them to explore different beach spots without extra charges.
Tourist-Trap Boat Tours
Boat tours often promise unique views but deliver crowded, uncomfortable experiences. Parents regret the expense when the trip feels generic.
Opting for smaller, private charters can offer a more personal adventure.
Alternatively, exploring waterfronts on foot provides a more intimate connection with the local scenery.
Add-on Breakfast Upgrades That Aren’t Worth It
Breakfast upgrades sound appealing but often fail to deliver a worthwhile spread. The extra cost can feel wasteful when options remain limited.
Families often prefer venturing out to local cafes for a more authentic meal.
Exploring nearby eateries not only saves money but also enriches the culinary experience of the trip.
Hotel Wi-Fi Charges in 2025
In an age where connectivity is crucial, Wi-Fi charges can feel like an unexpected blow. Paying extra rarely aligns with the modern expectation of free internet.
Parents find alternative spots with free Wi-Fi, like cafes or public spaces, more tempting.
Choosing accommodations with inclusive Wi-Fi packages can also save hassle and money.
VIP Lounges They Only Stay in for 20 Minutes
VIP lounges promise luxury but often end up being a brief stopover that doesn’t justify the cost. Parents barely have time to enjoy the perks.
Kids can get restless quickly, making the lounge stay shorter than planned.
Spending time at regular airport areas often feels just as satisfying, without the high price tag.