The money-wasting mistake millions of passengers make at airports every year

Going on vacation is expensive enough without falling into the usual tourist traps.

According to a travel expert, there are some common pitfalls that most travelers make.

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Arina Bloom worked as a flight attendant for two years and learned a few tricks to save money while traveling.

One of the easiest changes is at the airport, where she often sees travelers shelling out for expensive bottled water.

It’s an easy mistake to make – exhausted passengers trying to get through airport security simply throw away their water bottles after being caught by the 100ml liquid rule.

But there are plenty of water fountains to refill bottles after security.

Mrs Bloom tells Yahoo News: “Air travel is expensive. You’ve already paid for the ticket, taxi and luggage, so don’t waste your money on overpriced airport water.

“You can’t take liquids through security, but nobody says you can’t take an empty bottle.

“Most airports are full of water fountains, and many have a special pump to refill bottles quickly.

“To keep your bottle full in flight, simply ask your flight attendant for a refill. If you’re lucky, they’ll even put ice in it.”

Water isn’t the only thing not to buy at the airport.

According to Lindsay Sakraida, director of content marketing at a shopping comparison site DealNews: “Electronics bought at the airport will cost you significantly more than if you bought them in advance.

“Our research shows that electronics at airports are, on average, 34 percent more expensive than what you would find online.”

She said that could range from £10 to £15 for small devices, but up to £180 for things like cameras.

Lindsay added: “And that charger? That could be up to 50 percent more at the airport.”

Snacks are also often much more expensive compared to their high street counterparts.

comparison page finder.com found the biggest rip off was the Cadbury’s Oreo chocolate bar, which cost £5 duty free and just £2 in the supermarket.

A 250g bag of peanut M&Ms didn’t fare much better, costing £3.50 in duty free but just £1.50 in supermarkets.

So if you’re really craving some snacks, be sure to bring them from home as you can get them through airport security as long as they don’t violate the liquid rules.

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