As you’re getting ready for your Spring Break trip, a little planning beforehand could save you some money and headaches at the airport -- specifically those dreaded baggage fees.
As many of us know, navigating airline luggage rules can sometimes turn that excitement into a challenge.
“I had to pay an extra charge for my luggage, for each luggage, so it was really expensive!” said airline passenger Zamira Vergara.
A Consumer Reports survey found that 40% of people who flew in the past year chose a higher fare just to avoid baggage fees -- and we’re not just talking about checked bags. In Consumer Reports’ survey, 30% paid for a carry-on bag!
Consumer Reports says careful planning when you book your ticket may save you money, not to mention stress, later at the airport.
“It’s always smart when booking a flight to check to see if your airline offers a discount for prepaying baggage fees online,” said Deb Silber with Consumer Reports.
And keep in mind that luggage marketed as “carry-on size” can be bigger than what an airline considers a standard. Consumer Reports found that out during its recent luggage testing.
A bag that should fit in most overhead bins and won’t break the bank is the Amazon Basics 21-inch hard-side spinner for about $80.
For now, most airlines will still let you bring a personal item for free - so make the most of it.
“A great choice for that personal item is a travel backpack. A good one will have plenty of compartments that are easy to access in-flight, but also be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you,” said Silber.
The Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC for $199 was a staff favorite, along with the eBags Pro Slim for $75.
If you travel often on the same airline, here are two tips that could help you save on fees:
- Be sure to sign up for frequent flyer programs (loyalty programs). They’re free, and Consumer Reports says if you accumulate enough points or miles, you may earn free perks like free checked or carry-on bags.
- Consider the airline’s co-branded credit card for more perks, though those cards can sometimes carry high fees. Besides earning frequent flyer miles, certain cards waive bag fees and offer priority boarding.