The introduction of a la carte fees by most major airlines over the past year has gotten mixed reactions. Many customers are peeved at having to pay extra for everything from a checked bag to a blanket, while others point out that the unbundled fee structure means you don’t have to pay for services you don’t use.
Whatever your feelings on a la carte fees, remember to factor them in as you bargain-shop for flights this Summer — what seems like a steal can quickly turn into a ripoff as fees rack up. Next time you get ready to book a flight, refer to this handy chart from USA Today to keep airlines' extra charges straight and make sure you're getting a real bargain.
Source: Getty
Promod
Freya
Just Cavalli
here is what i'm wondering; if you take a bag on-board, and they have no room so they have to check it, do you have to pay then? we just got back from vacation, and this happened to several people on one of our flights.
and when we were checking in, at the stupid self check in that delta has, the employee kept saying "it's $15 a bag" over and over until i finally asked why he was repeating himself. "Because it's $15 a bag" was his answer. very annoying, who flys w/o luggage?
1I so agree licketysplit! Airlines KNOW people need luggage to travel and most people have to check bags, so it's really annoying to have to pay for checked luggage, esp. the FIRST bag! I've always flown Southwest- which does not have bag fees-- cuz I've never been anywhere it didn't go to, but I'm planning a trip to NYC (SW doesn't fly there) and all the airlines have checked bag fees!
Of course, it makes sense that the airlines that charge for bags are having problems with carryons not fitting (which I would think causes scheduling problems/delays), cuz people are trying to avoid the extra fees by taking their big bags on board.
I can live with paying for a blanket or snack, but don't charge me extra for something that's an essential part of your business- luggage!- just include it in the ticket price.
Also, another place to check fees is kayak.com. I just googled "airline fees" and kayak has great, easy to read info.
2i think that there are definitely 2 sides to this. for myself- i hate having to pay for things that i don't use, but on the off chance that i could use something - i get upset thinking that i'd have to pay extra.
3Post New Comment
Please share your opinion with our community, but make sure it is on topic and follows our Community Rules. We moderate comments and prohibit personal attacks, threats, spam, lewd images, or the promotion of your personal website.