Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1194291
28 B M & T ••• September/October 2019 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com M eetings and vacations can get expensive, so you'd think it would make sense to choose the cheaper travel option when possible. However, when selecting a budget airline, you might actually end up pay- ing the same price or even more than a major airline. Hidden fees such as seat selection, checked baggage, and food or refreshments on board the aircraft are com- mon when booking a flight on a budget airline and pas- sengers aren't always aware. In fact, a recent survey conducted by AirHelp, found that 75% of all United States travelers feel that airlines aren't informing them enough when it comes to their passenger rights. Here are some of the hidden fees charged by airlines that can make your budget airline not as cost effective as you may think. SEAT SELECTION: While some budget airlines like Norwegian have been charging passengers more than $40 to choose their seats, major United States carriers like Delta, American and United have begun charging for seat selection for preferred seats, although costs started at $9 per passenger. When booking a flight, passengers should be aware that choosing their seat may cause them to incur extra costs, and should factor that into the price of their ticket. BAGGAGE FEES: Checked baggage fees vary by air- line; most airlines allow air passengers one carry-on bag and one personal item at no extra cost, however, guide- lines for size and weight vary depending on the airline. Nevertheless, it's always important to check the terms and conditions of the airline you have chosen to fly with. Some airlines are introducing new classes like "basic economy," providing passengers with the option to pay less for a flight ticket if they forgo having a carry-on. What was a simple thing has turned into a complicated area of traveling as travelers have several options to choose from now. The best way to understand baggage fees is to do your research before booking your flight or arriving at the air- port. Almost all airlines charge for checked baggage, how- ever, the cost for checked bag- gage varies per airline, and can be dependent on the size and weight of your luggage. Also, if you haven't flown in a few months, be sure to review your air lines baggage regulations and fees since airlines like Delta, United Airlines and JetBlue have recently raised checked baggage fees by almost 20% within the last year. In addition to increasing fees, airlines are constantly changing what is deemed a carry-on or personal item. Dimensions are usually listed as a series of numbers reflecting the height, length and width, or as a singular number representing the total measurement of a piece of luggage. It is important to check these measurements before packing to limit your odds of having to pay unan- ticipated fees. Now, many U.S. airlines charge $30 for a piece of luggage around 62 inches in size and 50 pounds or less for domestic flights. However, on an international flight, travelers can expect higher fees, going up to $60 for a 50-pound bag. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, if your bag exceeds the weight limit or size requirements you will be required to pay more. By researching before you book your flight, you may be able to save money on checked luggage and eliminate unan- ticipated baggage fees. Also, be sure to weigh your bag before departing for the airport to make sure your lug- gage does not exceed the airline's weight limit. FOOD/DRINKS ON BOARD: Some airlines offer free refreshments, but on other airlines, you may have to pay for a coffee or soda. Passengers may consider purchasing a drink after security in the airport if they would like a beverage on board the airplane, or should consider these costs, too. The total cost of extra fees can vary per passenger and per airline, but travelers should budget an extra $100 if they would like to check a bag and choose their seat in many situations. It is important to note that costs per air- line vary, and AirHelpencourages travelers to review all potential costs in advance of their flights so they can be prepared. For more information go to www.airhelp.com. IS YOUR AIRLINE FLIGHT ACTUALLY CHEAPER?