Travelers Advocate | November/December 2008

by Jessica Brady

Not only do Americans feel the “pain at the pump,” but travelers now feel the pain of more and more airline fees. At first, some airlines began to charge $15 for one checked bag and between $15 and $125 for the second and third checked bags. Now, fees aren’t associated only with luggage, and many airlines are charging travelers for everything from snacks and water to booking fees and unaccompanied minors.

AAA has put together the following list of tips to help consumers save.

AAA's 5 Tips to Save

1 Curbside Check-in Fees: Some airlines charge $2 per bag for curbside check in, plus a tip. To avoid this fee, ask if there is a fee before you wait in line, and if so, check it inside.

2 Baggage Fees: While some airlines charge for the first checked bag, almost every airline except Southwest charges $15 or more for a second checked bag. If it is necessary to bring two pieces of luggage, check one and carry on the second, but make sure it doesn’t exceed the airline’s size limitations for under seat or overhead storage.

3 Food/Pillows/Blankets: Bring your own snacks, travel pillow and/or blanket and an empty water bottle to fill at the fountain after passing through security.

4 Booking Fees: Many airlines charge a booking fee when tickets are booked over the phone. The best way to beat these fees is to book your tickets online at AAA.com, where booking is fee-free for AAA members.

5 Luggage Overweight Fees: These can run between $25 and $200! Watch the packing demo online at AAA.com/Luggage and follow a few simple packing tips that could save you a bundle:

Pack only necessary items. Many hotels provide hair dryers, irons and toiletries, so no need to pack these.
If more than one pair of shoes is needed, wear the heaviest pair and put the others in the bottom of the suitcase.
Instead of folding clothes, layer items on top of shoes and toiletries.
Next, roll all t-shirts, socks, shorts and undergarments so more can fit into one bag.