Avoiding Airline “Extras” That Could Kill Your Budget

I fly commercial airlines once or twice a year. This year, I flew round trip in January and again in July with the same airline. I’m amazed at how much their charges have changed between trips. I’m also amazed that we as consumers continue to put up with what I like to refer to as airway robbery. If you’re traveling on a budget (and who isn’t in today’s economy), airline travel can cost you hundreds more than you expected with on the “extras” that used to be free. Here’s how you can avoid those expenses with a little bit of planning.

Tip #1: Check Your Baggage at the Curb

Most airlines (Southwest may be the only one that doesn’t) charge at least $25 per checked piece of luggage. For a family of four, that’s an extra $100 each way or $200 round trip. Now, the charge is even more if your suitcase exceeds a weight limit. Continental Airlines wanted to charge me an extra $50 for a bag  that was actually lighter on the way home than it was on the way there (when nobody even weighed my bag). When you check your bag inside the airport, it automatically goes on the scale. When you check it at the curb, the sky cap decides whether to weigh it. There’s no guarantee they’ll let it go, but they still enjoy cash tips. If they see possible tip money in your hand, you’re probably safe.

Tip #2: Carry Your Luggage on the Plane or Check it at the Gate

I was amazed at how many people rushed to check their bags for free when the flight attendant at the gate announced the flight was full and they would gladly check carry-on items for free. I don’t think half those people ever intended to carry on their luggage. They just didn’t want to pay to check it. Even if you have no intention of carrying on your luggage, start out that way. More likely than not, you’ll have a chance to check it at the gate for free.

Tip #3: Bring Your Own Food

If you’re taking a long trip, pack snacks or a sandwich from home. A sandwich at DFW International costs about $8, and that doesn’t include chips. Airlines sell snack boxes for even more money and less substance. Just don’t pack drinks. Even water will be confiscated by security.

Tip #4: Bring Your Own Entertainment

Continental has Direct TV, but it costs $8 a person on flights over two hours - $32 for a family of four. Ear buds are free, though. Plug them into your laptop PC and carry a movie with you. Or, bring your MP3 player and a book.

If we paid all of these extras, my family would have been out an extra $300 round trip. I didn’t even pay that much per ticket. It takes a little extra planning, but saving hundreds of dollars is worth it.