Bypass Baggage Fees
Wednesday, July 7, 2010 at 11:14AM I'm starting to use covert tactics these days to avoid paying airline baggage fees. On a recent trip to San Diego it was every man (and woman) for themselves when we boarded the flight and fought for overhead bin space.
It appears the two carry-on limit per passenger has done little to stem the tide of passengers seeking relief from airline fees, and I don't see this trend reversing anytime soon. If your boarding zone is three through five good luck.
A recent report showed that in the 1st quarter of 2010, the US airline industry made more than $760 million dollars in revenue from baggage fees, up 33 percent over the same period last year. I can't speak for you, but I certainly would like a 33% increase in my household revenue (a.k.a. income) over the same period last year.
These numbers tell me two things, first, baggage fees are a gold mine to airline carriers and second, passangers are continuing to shell out good money for optional, non-value added charges.
Here are some ideas you may want to consider to reduce or eliminate what you pay in baggage fees going forward:
1. Join a frequent flier program and take advantage of baggage fee discounts or "waived" fees for preferred members.
2. Purchase a luggage scale and use it while packing to spot overweight bags BEFORE you get to the airport.
3. Ship your luggage via UPS or FedEx. This can be a benefit if you are travelling domestically and can establish a discipline of shipping well in advance of your trip.
4. Take Amtrack if service is offered to your destination .... and you have the time. You'll not only enjoy beautiful scenery on route, you can take two pieces of luggage on board (excluding a personal item) and check up to three pieces of luggage...for free!
5. Fly a discount airline like Southwest (two checked bags for free) or Jet Blue (one checked bag for free.)
However you decide to bypass baggage fees I applaude you. If you have more ideas I'd like to know about them.
Reader Comments (1)
We're right there with you on trying to bypass the new baggage fees! We're planning a trip in the fall, and it's virtually impossible to pack light when a toddler will be traveling. I love Option #3 that you listed above, shipping everything in advance -- great idea!
These new baggage fees might ultimately make more money for UPS than the airlines...
Thanks for the great travel tips -- hope to see more!
Deb