Whether you’re headed to a theme park, national park, or a beachside resort this summer, no one wants to return home with buyer’s remorse. Vacation is a time to unwind – not overspend. Yet even the most seasoned traveler can fall victim to costly tourist traps that drain your wallet and leave you feeling scammed. 

 Here are four common traps to avoid, along with smart swaps to help you spend wisely and soak up the best of your summer escape. 

1. Overpriced or questionable taxis

Hopping into a taxi straight from the airport or tourist hotspot might seem convenient, but it can also be costly. Drivers in popular vacation cities sometimes overcharge tourists by quoting flat rates, disabling the meter, or taking scenic (and unnecessary) routes. 

Smart summer swap: 
Use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft where pricing is transparent, or research local public transportation options before you go. Cities like New York, D.C., San Francisco, and even Honolulu offer excellent metro or bus systems. If you’re in a walkable area, explore on foot – you’ll burn off that vacation gelato and save cash. Don’t forget to download offline maps in case you lose service. 

2. Restaurants near major attractions

Dining next to the Statue of Liberty or overlooking the Las Vegas Strip might give you a great Instagram shot—but it’ll likely come with a hefty tab and mediocre food. Restaurants near major landmarks often rely on foot traffic and tourists who won’t return, so they tend to prioritize convenience over quality. 

Smart summer swap: 
Wander a few blocks away from the crowd. Neighborhood gems often serve better food for half the price. Check Google or Yelp reviews, ask your Airbnb host or hotel concierge for local favorites, or use apps like Eater or OpenTable to scout hidden culinary treasures. Pro tip: Lunch specials at local spots can be a great value! 

3. Buying tickets on-site

Whether it’s tickets to the Empire State Building, Alcatraz, or a national museum, buying at the door can lead to higher prices, long lines, or worse – sold-out time slots. 

Smart summer swap: 
Book in advance on the attraction’s official website to secure the best prices and avoid third-party markups. Some attractions offer skip-the-line access or combo deals when purchased ahead. And always steer clear of resellers outside the entrance, no matter how “official” they look. 

4. Following the herd to the same spots

Summer hot spots like Times Square, the Grand Canyon, or Disneyland will always be crowded and expensive. When everyone flocks to the same places, prices spike. 

Smart summer swap: 
Look for lesser-known gems nearby. For example: 

• Instead of Napa, explore Paso Robles. 

• Skip the main beach in South Florida for a quieter barrier island. 

• Visit a state park instead of the most popular national park. 

These destinations often have lower costs, fewer crowds, and a more authentic vibe. 

Bonus: consider shoulder season 

If you can swing it, plan your trip just before or after peak summer (think late August or early September). You’ll often find cheaper airfare, discounted lodging, and more relaxed crowds – without missing out on good weather. 

Final thought 

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to vacation spending. Avoiding common tourist traps doesn’t just save you money; it enhances your travel experience. You’ll come home with better memories, fewer regrets, and maybe even a little money left over for your next adventure. 

Need help setting a vacation budget? FinFit’s budget tools make it easy to plan for summer expenses, track spending while you’re away, and save up for your next getaway. So go ahead and enjoy your vacation without blowing your budget.