Airlines are doing everything in their power to make more money as they battle high fuel costs. This has had a negative impact on travelers, as airlines are charging fees for things like movies, snacks, headphones, blankets, and even seats. Airline fees aren't going to go away , but there are things that you can do to save money and even avoid certain fees.
Book your tickets online
U.S. airlines typically do not charge travelers for booking their flight online, but Spirit Airlines and Allegiant Air do. Choose another option. If you choose to book by phone, you could be charged a phone booking fee which can range from $15 to $45.
Fly on Southwest Airlines or JetBlue
One of the priciest and most unavoidable airline fees is for baggage. Packing and bringing a bag is a necessity for any vacation, and airlines know it. Many airlines charge for checked-bag, so travelers have been trying to avoid those fees by bringing bigger carry-ons. However, some airlines like Allegiant and Spirit are even charging high fees for carry-on luggage now. If you choose to fly with Southwest of JetBlue, your first checked-bag is free and there are no fees for carry-ons. Southwest even allows you to check a second bag for free.
Measure And Weigh Your Bags
Not only do some airlines charge for checked luggage, but the price can also depend on the size and weight of the bag that you bring. If your bag is heavier than 40-50 pounds, you could be charged for an overweight baggage fee, which can cost between $50 to $400 on top of an already $40 to $70 standard checked baggage fee. If your bag measures more than 62 linear inches (length+width+height), you could also be hit with expensive oversized bag fees for the measurements on top of the overweight fee and standard checked-luggage fee. Check with each individual airline to see what their requirements are and make sure your luggage falls within the limits.
Bring a Carry-on That Will Fit Under the Seat
Many travelers try to bring as much as they can in a carry-on to try to avoid checked-luggage fees. This means that overhead bins are filled fast. Some airlines offer passengers an option to board early for $5 to $10 each way for those who want to have a first pick at an overhead spot. You don't have to worry about this fee or fighting over space if you bring a carry-on that's small enough to fit under the seat. Also make sure that your bag at least follows the airline's limits because you can be charged extra if you bring a bag that's too big and you need to check it.
Don't Expect a Free Refund
Be sure about your trip because refundable tickets are more expensive than regular tickets. You could wind up spending another $75 to $175 if you need to change your non-refundable ticket. Southwest Airlines is the only major U.S. airline that doesn't charge a fee for ticket changes. They offer a credit which can be used for a future flight on their airline. If you purchase a ticket from Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, US Airways, or Virgin America, they lower their ticket change fees by $10 to $25 if you make the arrangement online.
Try Not To Book Through a Third Party
Some airlines will charge a fee if you need to change a ticket you booked through a travel agent or an online travel site. For instance, United, Frontier, and Delta will charge agency fees ranging from $25 to $50. Delta will make an exception and waive this fee if the change is made online.
Bring Your Own Entertainment
Some airlines will charge for headphones or the ability to watch TV or a movie on board. Bring your own reading materials, mp3 player, or portable DVD player to avoid these fees and keep yourself entertained on a long flight.
Bring Your Own Food
Airline and airport food prices can be expensive. Save some money by bringing your own snacks from home. This will also give you the opportunity to have food that you actually enjoy rather than taking chances with airline meals.
Dress Warmly and Bring Layers
At high altitudes, airplane cabins can get cold. Some airlines now charge for their tiny blankets and pillows. Dress warm and bring an extra sweater so you can be comfortable on a long flight.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
