Add-on
An add-on is an additional product or service that can be purchased as a supplement to a main travel booking or package.
Some key things to know about add-ons in travel:
Air travel add-ons allow passengers to purchase extra services beyond the base airfare. Common airline add-ons include checked baggage, seat selection, onboard meals, extra legroom, WiFi access, and entertainment. These let travelers customize trips to individual needs and preferences.
Packaged vacations like resorts, tours, cruises, etc. offer add-on options to enhance the trip. Popular add-ons include beverage packages, spa treatments, activity passes, alcohol plans, transportation services, equipment rentals, guided expeditions, event tickets and trips to nearby destinations.
Lodging accommodations also present opportunities to add on features for a fee like upgrades to premium views, valet parking, breakfast, airport transfers, additional guests, rollaway beds, pets, early check-in/late check-out, and more.
Car rental companies provide various add-ons for sale during booking like GPS navigation devices, child safety seats, additional drivers, toll passes, and insurance policies.
The ability to add on ancillary products enables greater flexibility and personalization in travel. Airports, hotels and travel vendors continue to develop add-on features to differentiate offerings and boost revenue opportunities beyond basic bookings.
What Factors Should Travelers Consider When Deciding Whether to Purchase Add-Ons for Their Trips?
When deciding whether to purchase add-ons for a trip, there are several factors travelers should consider:
Need – Will you actually use or need the add-on? For example, buying an airline lounge pass when you have a short layover.
Cost-Benefit – Compare the add-on cost versus the perceived value and convenience it provides. Is it really worth the price?
Budget – Can you comfortably afford the additional cost or will the add-on stress your overall travel budget?
Alternatives – Might a cheaper or free alternative outside the booking provide the same benefit? Like using your own GPS instead of renting one.
Refundability – Check if you can get reimbursed later if plans change and you no longer need the add-on purchase.
Frequency of Use – If a repeat customer, you may utilize the add-on enough over time to justify the one-time fee.
Impact on Experience – Will adding on something like a photographic tour make the trip markedly more memorable and enjoyable?
Evaluating necessity, getting good value, and enhancing your experience without going over-budget are keys to determining which travel add-ons warrant the extra splurge over basic booking costs.
