Avoiding the Hidden Costs of Airline Travel

Even if you travel on an airplane regularly, you may still be surprised to learn that some airlines harbor hidden charges. While many airline companies charge for meals and certain movies, these costs have been widely accepted as standards over the years. Passengers may not agree with the expenses, but they realize that airline needs to tap into many opportunities to increase their revenue and help to make the flight experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Before you book your flight, find out what the rules are regarding reservations. Several of the top airlines will charge you to book a flight, especially if you require the assistance of a representative. In the United States, a call to an airline runs between $5 and $15, on average. Usually, securing a seat online will cost you less – or nothing at all – depending on the airline.

Many travelers take advantage of frequent flyer miles to assist with the cost of their flights. However, if you apply your miles when booking a flight and have to cancel, you may be charge to reload the miles back onto your card. This is standard practice among many points providers, although passengers fail to realize that they may be subject to a fee, should they call off the trip.

It also pays to act fast when it comes to frequent flyer miles. Again, depending on the airline, you may have to trade in your miles a specific amount of time before the flight takes place. For example, some airlines will require you to cash in your miles at least a few days before you are due to travel, leaving you unable to obtain a last-minute fare for free. Other airlines will allow you to make hasty flight plans, as long as you pay a service charge. Be sure to research ahead, however, as some fees could take a rather large chunk out of your wallet.

Other costs worth checking into ahead of time include pet surcharges, fees for checking luggage (yes, even your carry-on), refund and standby charges, and additional expenses for traveling with an infant. Although you may suspect that many of these items are free, it’s better to confirm the price with the airline than to be surprised as you attempt to board. Keeping vacation expenses to a minimum requires a lot more than just good research though. So if you want to know how to travel the world on a budget, you will need to get a good basis in basic budgeting.