Flying during the holiday’s travel tips and awareness of added fees

As a travel agent, I too am confused when I quote a ticket to a client. In the days before deregulation, tickets were simply quoted and paid for. Now most tickets are priced as a base fare coupled with mandatory taxes. Then there are the optional “add-on’s”.

The filing for bankruptcy by AMR the parent company of American Airlines continues to be evidence though planes are flying at capacity and fleets have shrunk, airlines continue to struggle to make a profit.

Even though gas prices at the pump have decreased, yet slowly ticking up as crude broke $100 on the merc today in New York, base airline tickets in general have risen 20% in cost over the last year. Now comes a la carte pricing.

Seating Fees: When you buy an airline ticket, you are provided a seat. However if you may desire what the airlines consider a premium seat, be prepared to ante up. This is not 1st or Business Class premium; these are seats in economy class. On Delta which has limited service into and out of Denver, your aisle, window or emergency exit seat may cost you more than a middle seat or seat at the rear of the plane.

Baggage Fees: With the exception of Southwest Airlines, the major carriers are charging baggage fees associated with their most economical tickets. Prices vary by airline and ticket class of service, however, be aware of baggage fees when booking your ticket. Also cost-compare ticket classes as it may be more cost-effective to upgrade your ticket if it includes a waiver concerning checked baggage. Denver hub airline Frontier offers this option.

Within the industry, most agents agree Spirit Airlines is the most egregious concerning fees associated with travel. In addition to a checked baggage fee, Spirit actually charges fees for carry-on luggage concerning the use of the overhead bins. When I checked recently for Spirit, carry-on bags at the airport now cost $40 at the airport check-in counter or kiosk and $45 at the gate.

While viewing travel gift catalogues this season, a hot seller seems to be the luggage scale. It is a handle which actually weighs your luggage. While I have seen scales in use at airports for international flights and smaller commuter flights, the airlines are now charging for overweight checked bags. From a random check of the major airlines, most charge an additional fee for bags weighing in excess of 50 pounds. Of note, Spirit charges an extra fee starting at 40 pounds.

Thus a few tips to make travel easier this holiday season:

First flight out in the morning when possible, less chance of the flight being delayed in-route.
Avoid connecting flights.
Direct may not be non-stop. Direct may mean a stop and a possible plane change. Be sure to check with the airline.
Connections: Learn the airport layout and be sure you have enough time between connections. A 45 minute connection at Atlanta Hartsfield, Houston Intercontinental, Chicago Ohare; unless your connecting flight is on the same concourse, doubtful you will make your connection. Layouts are available at: Airport Terminal Maps
Avoid Northern and Midwestern hub airports. Winter weather is upon us. If connecting consider airports located in milder climates.
Premium Seats: Yes, these seats in the front of the place behind the curtain may cost a few dollars more ($39-150). However if on a long-haul flight i.e. 5+ hours, the added legroom and recline may well be worth the expense.
Check-in online 24 hours prior.
Many international flights now allow check-in online, have your passport information readily available.
Get to the airport 2.5-3.5 hours early. Wrapped gifts, body scanners and security check-points are a combination for delays.
Take a Picture: Of your luggage. If your luggage is lost easier to describe to customer service. Also, include address information inside your luggage as well.
Use business card for luggage ID. Do not use home address on id tags visible to all.
Use cell number on ID as no use in calling home if traveling.
Use TSA approved luggage locks. If flying overseas, guaranteed your checked luggage will be searched.
In line with customer service, program the airlines customer service number in your cell so you can call while in line as well.
Patience: Remember, delays happen. Also the airline employees are there to assist. Frustration abounds and at times tempers flare, however when in this situation, take a step back, relax and remember kindness will be rewarded.