Travelers who want to avoid nasty airline fees should fly Southwest. That's the bottom line from an article in the November issue of Consumer Reports’ ShopSmart that takes a hard look at which airlines are nickel and diming us to death with new fees. (Warning: If you haven't flown in a while, prepare to be appalled.) Here are five key strategies to take away from the article:
- Think twice about that second suitcase.
All airlines except Southwest charge for a second checked bag. - Ask for electronic ticketing.
Print out your electronic ticket, as the cost of choosing a paper ticket is skyrocketing—up to a whopping $75 at United. - Bring your own food, drinks, and pillows.
Continental is the only major U.S. carrier that serves free meals on domestic flights, though some airlines offer free snacks. US Airways and Spirit charge for soft drinks, and United charges for coffee and tea. JetBlue will hit you for pillows and blankets. - When in doubt, call the airline.
Fees can change fast and airline web sites don’t always reveal complete listings of fees, so contact the airlines directly. - Watch out for unavoidable fees.
The biggest fee of all is fuel surcharges. Most airlines impose these fees in the higher cost of your ticket, but not all airlines do, which makes comparison shopping more important than ever.
Just how bad have things gotten? Here are just some of the unsavory practices ShopSmart uncovered:
- US Airways: Charges $25-$50 to redeem “free” trips from your frequent flyer program.
- Northwest, United, US Airways: Charge $2 or so per bag at some airports for a curbside bag check.
- American: Charges $100 for a ticket change and $15 for the first checked bag.
- Spirit: Charges for the first checked bag, booking by phone, seat confirmation, soft drinks, and snacks.
- AirTran and Spirit: Charge extra for calling to confirm a seat assignment or to request a seat location.
November 18. 2008 13:13
What a lot of people forget is that the baggage fee has to be doubled, because it has to be paid each way. This can make for a very costly undertaking. Some items even require oversize fees, adding more costs. It is wise to check with your airline about their policies for things like strollers and carseats before arriving at the airport. This avoids some very unpleasant surprises, and leaves customers the options of renting equipment from one of the many baby/ toddler equipment rental companies out there. For instance in the Puerto Vallarta area there is Lots For Tots Mexico.
Anjalla