It seems that more than ever, airline fees will become the norm for much of our nation's air travel. It means shelling out more dough than ever before if you're not careful. Whether it's the price of oil or airline companies simply trying to stay afloat in the wake of a stagnant economy, the fact of the matter is that prices seem to be going up.
According to faithful travel writer Rick Seaney the forecast is clear, fees in 2011 are going up, up, up.
Here's how to avoid fees that have already appeared or are likely to surface this year:
1. Prep Travel Meals (Recipes Included)
Free airline meals have slowly disappeared in the past few years and now they will likely diminish even for transatlantic flights. If you're planning on traveling extensively this year, make it a habit to pack snacks and meals. This way you can control what you're eating and at the same time you can save between $4 and $8 dollars for every meal or snack that you purchase aboard a plane. This Green Lentil Salad is travel-friendly. Or consider these journey worthy Tan Tan Noodles. And my favorite, these completely naturally sweet, Maple Date Bars will keep for days without losing any of their flavor. Soda and water will likely be the next to go but you can avoid this one by bringing empty water bottles and filling them up at water fountains once in the terminal.
2. Pack Light To Avoid Potential Fees
You're likely well versed about packing light when it comes to checked bags because if not, you're sure to pay steep overweight bag charges. If your carry on is too heavy then you could also be forced to pay to check that as well. So basically you'll be paying for heavy checked or carry on bags this year. So prepare yourself by leaving cloths and especially shoes that you don't plan to wear behind. Trust me, unless you're trying to be a fashionista you'll be glad that you don't have to haul them around or pay for them later.
3. Choose Airlines With the Least Fees
While it seems airline fees are going up, airlines vary greatly. Choose airlines with the lowest fees. Southwest Airlines reduced its number of allowed checked bags from three to two per passenger, but it hasnt added new fees. While most airlines do charge fees per bag, that price can vary between airlines. You can choose credit cards or hotel deals that reimburse you for checked bag fees. American Express for example, has travel programs which reimburse you if you check bags or buy food on airlines. While these are often fee-based cards, if you're a frequent traveler in the end, you still come out on top.
4. Stick to Your Plans
Most airlines will be or are currently charging change fees for seats that you've already booked if you want to change your plans. This one is easy to avoid, once you make plans, stick to them. Don't get somewhere and decide you want to leave at a later or earlier date or time and not expect to pay for it.
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