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Last Minute Air Travel Tips

By Joshua Seth | June 10, 2008

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My girlfriend and I are flying to Greece tomorrow to do a show and then on to Italy and all I can say is… I’m sure glad someone else is paying for the tickets.

Did you know that American Airlines (the Nation’s largest commercial airline) is about to start charging $15 to check your FIRST bag after June 15th? Look for the other airlines to follow suit. They have to do something to offset the rising costs of jet fuel.

A few months ago I wrote an article about how to pack for your next trip without checking any luggage. At the time many airlines had just started charging $25 for checking a second bag. I’m thinking about how these kinds of additional fees will impact a family going on vacation (mom, dad, and 3 kids could rack up $200 in luggage charges) or a company planning an incentive program or trade show. This kind of stealth inflation can actually have a much greater impact on the overall economy than the meager dollar amounts would suggest. Hidden fees are like regressive taxes that create inflation without appearing to do so.

American also announced that they will be raising fares by another $20 (the 17th time they’ve done this since the start of the year!) and cutting domestic flight capacity in the US by over 10% by the end of the year. Look for fewer empty seats, less room in overhead storage compartments, more connections, and longer delays when flying. Fewer flight options will also result in higher ticketing prices (supply and demand).

The takeaway?

If you have any upcoming trips or summer vacations planned and can purchase the tickets before June 15th you’ll save yourself both time and money.

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7 Responses to “Last Minute Air Travel Tips”

  1. Gloria Says:
    June 10th, 2008 at 3:41 pm

    Thanks, Joshua.

    I going to San Diego in July. Fortunately I got my ticket through flight miles. The last time I took this trip two years ago, the round trip fare was $175. it’s almost $500 this time. Incredible.
    Have a great trip to Italy and Greece. and thanks again for the tips.

  2. Dale Says:
    June 10th, 2008 at 11:53 pm

    Joshua,

    I’ve already had this issue with other airlines (2nd bags). As our family of 5 were flying from California to Florida for a 15 day cruise, we found that it was easier and cheaper to Fedex our extra luggage to the motel ahead of schedule.

  3. marlene killian Says:
    June 14th, 2008 at 1:05 pm

    hi seth, finding it hard to want to travel anymore.
    it has become more work than pleasure to get anywhere. have a terrific trip and be safe.
    marlene

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