The one college expense you forgot to factor in

When calculating college costs, most parents forget to factor in the expenses associated with going on college visits. Between the cost of airfare and/or transportation, hotel rooms, meals, gas, and tolls, the expenses can really add up–before you even send in a single application.

According to Nat Smitobol, a college admissions counselor at IvyWise, most families will spend about $3500 a year on college visits, college application fees, and standardized tests. This helpful article from The Fiscal Times takes a look at the costs of college visits and offers tips on getting the most bang for your travel buck when visiting potential schools.