9 Ways to Avoid Airline Fees

Every time I get a chance, I head out of town. It’s a great stress reliever and nothing beats exploring a new city. I’ve been fortunate enough to head to Vegas twice in a month; once for pleasure and another for a wedding. I’m an avid price shopper when it comes to most things, especially air place tickets. Since I’m located in Dallas, most of my travel is through Southwest Airlines. They always have great deals, I love the airport it flies out of and you can’t beat their service.

Kiplinger’s outlines 9 ways to avoid airline fees:

• Do your homework—the best way to avoid fees is to be aware of what airlines charge for and how much—check out sites like TravelNerd and Airfarewatchdog.com for airline fee guides.
• Fly Southwest or JetBlue to avoid baggage fees—JetBlue allows passengers to check one bag for free and Southwest allows two checked bags at no charge.
• Measure and weigh your bags—If you fly an airline that does charge a baggage fee, make sure you don’t pay more than you have to by meeting the weight and size requirements. 
• Take advantage of extra items that can be carried on—each airline has a list of items you are allowed to carry on in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item
• Be careful with your carry-on—airlines have started charging for carry-on bags checked at the gate for not meeting the size and weight restrictions; make sure you know which airline will charge you!
• Book early—airlines are reserving more seats for frequent flyers and those willing to pay seating fees; by booking in advance you’re more likely to get a good seat that doesn’t require a fee.
• Book online—some airlines charge anywhere from $15 to $45 for booking a ticket via phone.
• Book through an airline’s site—some charge an extra fee for tickets purchased through a third party, such as travel sites or travel agents.
• Be certain about your travel plans—that last minute adjustment will cost you—airlines charnge up to $150 to change the date of a ticket.

Southwest won me over not only because of the cheaper ticket, but also because I was able to check in two bags free of charge as well as bring a carry on and personal item. I always pack way more than needed so not having to pay for checked luggage was an added bonus.

Do you shop online for tickets or do you let someone else  do it for you?

Originally posted on Lipglossandhighheels.com