From the time you book your trip from deplaning, airlines are taking advantage of every opportunity to get a little extra money from their passengers. Personal savings expert Andrea Woroch breaks down some tips and tricks to make the most of your traveling experience. (Reuters)
Seat Upgrades
Having small children no longer gets you to the front of the line without paying a fee with many airline companies. American Airlines has launched Express Seats which charges $9 to $39 for each flight segment that allows you to reserve a seat in the first few rows in coach, and Southwest charges $10 for Early Bird Check-In. JetBlue Airways, Delta and Virgin America still give preferential treatment to families, according to Woroch.
Carry-on Luggage
Airliners created an uproar a couple years ago when they started charging for checked luggage, but now they are taking it a step further and some are charging for any bags carried onboard. Allegiant Air and Spirit Airlines now charge for carry-on luggage, so learn to pack light or prepay for checked baggage to avoid additional fees. However, JetBlue still doesn’t charge travelers for their first piece of checked luggage. (Reuters)
Wider Seats
Travelers looking for bigger seats can pay to have a little more wiggle room-but it doesn’t come cheap. Travelers can also be on the lookout for wider seats from Airbus’ newer models of its A320 plane.
Hungry Skies
Sadly, most airlines no longer provide snacks (did a tiny bag of peanuts really ever count?) or meals onboard. If you’re going to be in the air for awhile, be sure to pick something up at the terminal or bring food from home. (Reuters)
Frequent Flier Charges
Apparently being loyal to one carrier doesn’t have the rewards and advantages it offered in the past. Some airlines are charging to book flights with miles, so be sure to check out this chart from AirfareWatchdog before booking. (Reuters)
Copays for Upgrades
United, Continental and American are charging to upgrade your seat using miles. Read carefully before booking that better seat. (Reuters)