Hidden Airline Fees Make Budget Travel Almost Impossible
Have you established a budget for your next vacation? One big expense is the cost of airfare. However, did you know that your plane ticket isn’t the only thing you must pay for when you fly?
That cheap flight you see advertised on the Internet could end up costing you a lot more than you realize! Hidden airline fees can eat away at your wallet and increase the cost of a holiday appreciably. This article discusses surcharges and provides advice for how to deal with some of them.
Fuel Surcharges
Although fuel surcharges are relatively low at present, with the rising cost of jet fuel, you can expect to see more increases over the coming months and years. Passengers tend to balk at rising fares, but seem to overlook fuel surcharges as a part of our current economy.
Airport Charges
Passenger facility charges can add an extra $3-$18 to your fare each way.
Extra or Overweight Bag Fees
Pack light! Extra or overweight bags may end up costing you anywhere from $25 to $100. Add a second extra bag, and the price can go up to $35. If a three-member family travels with six extra non-overweight bags, it will add $180 one-way or $360 return to the total airfare (more if any of the bags are overweight).
If you are really careful, you might be able to fit everything into one carry-on bag. Imagine no hassles waiting for your luggage on the carousel or worries about lost luggage! You could save both time and money.
Child-on-Lap Surcharge
Carrying a child on your lap during a flight does not use an extra seat, but you will may have to pay anywhere from $10 to 10% extra.
Seat Assignment Fee
If you want a specific seat on the plane, you might have to pay anywhere from $5 to $20 each way.
Wi-Fi Internet
Most business people do not balk at paying extra for Wi-Fi (typically $6-$13), but it is an extra charge that you should be aware of before you travel – especially if more than one person in your group wants to use the Internet.
Food and Liquor
Most airlines charge extra for food on domestic flights, from peanuts to salads – and it’s not cheap. A single can of beer can cost upwards of $5. Pack your lunch and save a bundle!
Pillows, Blankets, and Headphones
Creature comforts like pillows and blankets will cost extra, too. Inflatable travel pillows are a good alternative to those provided by airlines (and will only have YOUR germs on them). Pack your own headphones and lightweight blankets. <a href=”http://www.silkyoakslodge.com.au/PORT-DOUGLAS.43.0.html”> port douglas accomodation</a>
What’s Left?
Rumors are that some airlines may be planning to charge for washroom use and carry-on luggage.
Good News in the USA
The good news in the US is that the Department of Transportation will soon require airlines to disclose fees up front. This means that advertised rates will have to include all taxes and surcharges. Airlines will also be required to refund checked bag fees for lost luggage.
Carry a Credit Card
Be sure to take your credit card along! Cash is not accepted by most carriers for onboard incidentals.
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