Holidaymakers told how to avoid the 'common hidden costs' when dining out abroad

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GB NEWS

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 30/08/2025

- 07:00

Britons can be hit with hidden fees when dining out, but experts share how to prepare for these

Trying local cuisine is a highlight for many British holidaymakers - indeed, Google searches for the "best food spots" are up 172 per cent in the past three months.

While dining out is a necessary - and fun - part of travelling, it can come with a hefty price tag. Experts shared the hidden costs to be aware of on your next trip away.


Research by eSIM travel company, Airalo, found the biggest holiday expenses are the cost of a meal for two, the cost of the airport transfer, associated visa costs, data roaming charges, tourist tax and the cost of taxis, in that order.

The average price of a meal for two was the largest expense at £46.18, followed by the one-way cost of airport transfers, at £39.66.

Food in alley in SpainEnjoying local food is one of the great joys of being on holiday | GETTY

To help tourists manage money, experts warned of the biggest hidden fees they could face while dining. One of the biggest expenses is taxes and tipping, which can add 30 per cent to your bill.

The United States and Canada are the worst offenders, and tourists might be shocked to discover that the prices you see on menus often don't include taxes.

The experts said: "This is a common hidden cost that can catch travellers out. Once you add those hidden costs on, your £40 meal for two can easily come in at more like £50.

"Sales tax isn't often shown on menus, but can add up to 10 per cent extra on your bill. And in some destinations, tipping 20 per cent or more is the norm, especially in the USA."

To be safe, travellers should factor in 30 per cent on top of the menu price when calculating the total bill - "this should roughly ensure those additional costs are covered".

In Europe, it is fairly common to be greeted with free treats such as bread, antipasti or even shots. While these are often given without the diner asking, they still often come with a charge.

The experts said this is particularly common in Italy. They added: "Many restaurants add a 'coperto'. This extra cost covers things like bread and table service and is usually between €1 and €3 per person (around 90p to £2.60).

"It’s a mandatory charge in most restaurants, and although it's legally required to be advertised, it's usually relegated to the small print."

Diners drinking sangria in Madrid

Free treats, such as bread or shots, could be added to your bill

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GETTY

It could be worth checking before accepting any "free" items at a restaurant, or keep this in mind when budgeting the rest of the meal.

In more good news for food and drink lovers, research found the 10 holiday destinations with the most British pubs. New York City was at the top of the list, with experts naming it the "ultimate home away from home".

Both city break and beach holiday favourites made it onto the top 10 list, with Benidorm in Spain taking second place. Meanwhile, Los Angeles surprises with more British food options than NYC - 20 dishes across its top-rated bars, with every single one serving traditional British pies.

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