How To Avoid Extra Airline Fees

Airlines realize that customers hate add-on fees. So, they’re dumping them, right? Not exactly. They’re rebranding them.

According to Kiplinger, the fees are the same, only the names are new. Now, they’re called “fare choices” or “trip extras.”

For example, American Airlines’ Choice Essential package entitles you to a checked bag, reservation change and Group 1 boarding. All for only $68 round-trip over the base fare. Delta’s DAL $21 Ascend bundle includes in-flight Wi-Fi and priority boarding.

Kiplinger says to expect more airlines to jump on the bundled-fees bandwagon. It also advises passengers weigh the savings before signing up for a bundle.

For example, it costs $50 to check a bag round-trip on a domestic American airlines flight. For an extra $18, you get priority boarding and insurance covering a potential $150 change fee – which makes sense if you think your itinerary, might change.

So, how does the budget-conscious traveler avoid, or at least, minimize, fees? Travelnerd, part of the NerdWallet network, helps travelers compare airline fees using a simple interface.

In addition, Travelnerd’s Alicia Jao offers the following:

Research - The best way to avoid or minimize fees is to know what airlines charge for and what the fees are. The Travelnerd interface, above, includes an up-to-date list of airlines fees you can easily check before you buy your ticket.

Two to Consider – Neither Southwest LUV nor JetBlue JBLU charges a baggage fee (with limits), so they would be your best bet if your biggest concern were paying for your bags.

Take Some Measurements – If you know you will fly on an airline that charges a baggage fee, measure and weigh your bags to make sure they meet the airline’s size and weight requirements.

Check the “Extras” List – All airlines have a list of items that you are allowed to carry onto the aircraft in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item. The list varies from airline to airline, but typically includes crutches, reading material, some food, etc. If your packed baggage weight or size is close, take allowed items out before you check in.

Carry-on Caution – If your carry-on bag doesn’t meet size and weight restrictions, the airline may charge extra for it. Not all airlines charge this fee, however, and the Travelnerd site has a carry-on luggage size chart so you will know if your airline levies such a fee.

Buy Your Ticket in Advance – Frequent flyers and passengers willing to pay a “seating” fee are getting more and more of the best seats. Booking well in advance ensures you will be more likely to get a good seat without having to pay a fee.

Don’t Book by Phone – Again, check the airline, but know that some charge as much as $45 extra for tickets purchased over the phone versus online.

Do Book on Airline Websites – Some airlines charge an extra fee for changing a ticket booked through a third party – which is anybody but the airline. This includes travel websites and travel agents.

Avoid Changes – It isn’t always possible, but the more certain you are about your travel plans, the less likely you will be to face a charge of up to $150 for changing your ticket. Southwest is one exception that still does not charge a change fee.