We’re all the same when it comes to travel. It’s expensive. It can be a pain and, at the very least, inconvenient. Airlines will always find ways of adding fees or tariffs or conditions that compel you to open your wallet even wider. They have to make their money, of course, but sometime they may overcharge customers through various tactics, intentionally or unintentionally. And, inevitably, you find out while you’re standing at the gate. How can you get around this? Here are some tricks that they might use to squeeze out every penny.
Dynamic Pricing: Airlines often adjust ticket prices based on demand, time until departure, and other factors. This can sometimes result in prices that seem disproportionately high compared to the actual cost of providing the service. Airlines often adjust ticket prices based on demand, time until departure, and other factors. This can sometimes result in prices that seem disproportionately high compared to the actual cost of providing the service.
Hidden Fees: Airlines may advertise low base fares but then tack on numerous fees for things like baggage, seat selection, priority boarding, and in-flight amenities. These fees can significantly inflate the total cost of the ticket.
Opaque Fare Structures: Complex fare structures, including different classes of service with varying benefits and restrictions, can make it difficult for customers to understand the true value of their ticket and compare prices accurately.
But, one of the trickiest is how they target your luggage. As overhead compartments become more crammed, and, thus, space becomes a premium, it makes you wonder if there isn’t a better way. Some people decide to box up their luggage – literally – and ship it via UPS or FedEx. Does this scheme work? Watch the video below to learn a few things or two. (As a spoiler, the author of the video discusses some sanguine results from his test of boxing versus checking in.)
According to Nerdwallet, if you’re in North America, our affiliate friends, Southwest charges absolutely no bag fees. Delta, American, Alaska, JetBlue and United charge $35 for the first checked bag as long as you pay for the bag before at least 24 hours before departure. Click here to book with Southwest.
Hawaiian charges $30 if you’re flying within Hawaii, $40 if you’re flying to North America. Read more here courtesy of NerdWallet. Our affiliate friends, World Nomads can help: your belongings are almost as precious as your trip memories, which is why we cover: Baggage and personal effects, including sporting equipment, lost or damaged by your transportation carrier. Stolen bags or personal belongings that are reported to the authorities. Click below to learn more.