Money transfer company Wise has warned Australian football fans travelling to the US for World Cup matches that they could face unexpected costs beyond flights and tickets.
The warning follows the Socceroos’ progression through the group stage, which has prompted a rush of Australian fans booking trips to Dallas, Texas, for upcoming matches.
Wise said tipping was a key area where Australian travellers could be caught out. While tipping is optional in Australia, it is effectively expected in the US, with bars and restaurants in Dallas typically adding 18 to 20 per cent to bills for service.
The company also pointed to differences in how prices are displayed. Unlike in Australia, where GST is included in listed prices, Texas adds a combined state and local sales tax of 8.25 per cent at checkout.
Public transport coverage in Dallas is limited, according to Wise, with the city’s DART rail network not extending to all areas. Fans relying on ride-hailing services during peak match periods may face surge pricing, adding further cost to a trip.
Wise also flagged Texas’s hotel occupancy tax, which can total between 13 and 17 per cent, along with additional “destination” or “amenity” fees of $20 to $50 per night charged by some hotels for services such as Wi-Fi or gym access.
On a more positive note, Wise said the Australian dollar had strengthened against the US dollar by around four to five per cent over the past year, giving travellers more purchasing power than in previous years.
The company said travellers using standard bank cards typically faced international transaction fees of three to five per cent, plus additional exchange rate margins, which could add up over a multi-day trip covering flights, accommodation and match-day spending.
Wise recommended travellers consider multi-currency accounts to avoid these charges and access the mid-market exchange rate.
