Airline fees have become the bane of every traveler’s existence. What was once considered a standard part of flying—buying a ticket and heading to your gate—has been replaced by a growing list of additional charges. From checked bags to seat selection, travelers are faced with paying for things that were once included in the price of a ticket. A huge part of the reason here is that airlines are still recovering from the financial hit of the pandemic and have been leaning into these fees to make up for lost revenue.

The unfortunate truth is that these costs are not likely to disappear anytime soon. As airlines struggle to balance their budgets, it’s up to passengers to find ways to navigate this new normal. While it can be frustrating, the good news is there are plenty of strategies to help you minimize or avoid these fees altogether. Whether you’re booking your flight, packing your bag, or choosing your seat, a little planning can go a long way in keeping your travel costs down. Here’s a guide to help you dodge some of those pesky charges.

Booking Fees

When it comes to avoiding airline fees, the booking process is a crucial first step. One of the most effective ways to minimize costs is to book directly through the airline’s website. While third-party sites may offer convenience, they often tack on additional fees or don’t include certain discounts and benefits that are only available when booking directly with the airline.

Choosing the right class of service can also impact the number of fees you face. Economy might seem like the obvious choice for budget-conscious travelers, but sometimes paying a little extra for a premium or business class seat can save you on added costs like checked bags or seat selection fees, which are typically included with higher-tier tickets.

Additionally, many credit cards now offer travel perks that help offset these fees. For example, some cards come with annual travel credits, free checked bags, or even reimbursements for things like lounge access or priority boarding. If you travel frequently, it might be worth considering a credit card that offers these types of benefits, as they can add up to significant savings over time.

Baggage Fees

Baggage fees are one of the most common and frustrating costs travelers encounter. However, there are several ways to avoid paying these fees, starting with smart packing. First, always weigh your luggage before heading to the airport. Overweight baggage fees can be steep, and by ensuring your bags meet the airline’s weight requirements, you can avoid a hefty surcharge. To maximize your packing, consider using a carry-on bag instead of checking luggage. Many airlines allow one free carry-on, and with the right packing strategy, you can fit everything you need for a trip into a compact bag.

If you must check a bag, it’s important to know which airlines offer the best baggage policies. Some budget airlines charge for everything, while others might include a free checked bag with certain ticket classes or loyalty memberships. Additionally, some credit cards offer free checked bags on flights booked through the airline, which can be a huge benefit for frequent flyers. It’s worth researching baggage policies when booking your flight to ensure you’re aware of what’s included and what will cost you extra.

Seat Selection Fees

Seat selection fees can add up quickly, but there are a few strategies to help you avoid these charges. One of the easiest ways is to opt for a free random seat assignment. Most airlines will assign you a seat at check-in if you don’t choose one in advance. While this option doesn’t guarantee a specific seat, it’s a great way to avoid paying extra for seat selection, especially if you’re not picky about where you sit.

Another option is to take advantage of loyalty programs. Many airlines offer free seat selection or even complimentary upgrades to preferred seating for members of their frequent flyer programs. If you travel with a specific airline regularly, joining their loyalty program can provide significant savings over time. Additionally, some credit cards tied to airlines may grant you priority boarding or free seat selection as a perk, so it’s worth checking the benefits of your card before booking.

Change and Cancellation Fees

Change and cancellation fees can be some of the most unpredictable charges when booking a flight, but there are ways to avoid or reduce them. One of the best strategies is to purchase flexible tickets, which, while sometimes a little more expensive upfront, allow you to make changes or cancel your flight without the steep fees typically associated with non-refundable tickets. Many airlines now offer this option, especially for higher-tier tickets or certain fare classes, so it’s worth checking whether a flexible ticket might be a good investment for your travel plans.

Another way to minimize these fees is by being mindful of the rules that come with your ticket. Some airlines offer fee-free changes or cancellations within a specific window, often within 24 hours of booking, which could be a lifesaver if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.

Travel insurance can also be a valuable tool. While it won’t necessarily prevent fees, it can cover the costs if you need to cancel or change your trip for reasons outlined in the policy, such as illness or emergencies. Before purchasing, make sure to check what scenarios are covered to ensure it meets your needs.

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Add-on Fees

Airlines often try to upsell additional services, like priority boarding, extra legroom, or in-flight entertainment, but these fees can quickly add up. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid paying for these add-ons without compromising your travel experience.

For priority boarding, consider timing your arrival at the gate carefully. Most airlines allow all passengers to board within a few groups, and arriving at the gate early often means you’ll still get a spot in the early boarding groups without paying the extra fee. If you’re not in a rush to board, skipping priority boarding can help you save money without sacrificing comfort.

Extra legroom can be tempting, but depending on your flight, it may not be essential. On many short-haul flights, the standard seating can be perfectly comfortable, and by selecting a seat further back, you may be able to avoid additional charges. For longer or international flights, consider if paying for extra space is worth it based on your own comfort needs, and look for airlines that offer better legroom as a standard feature.

Finally, in-flight services such as Wi-Fi, premium snacks, and movies can be pricy. A simple workaround is to bring your own entertainment, snacks, and drinks. Many airlines allow you to bring a refillable water bottle and your own food onboard, which can keep you comfortable without spending on expensive in-flight options. With a little preparation, you can avoid many of these optional fees and have a smoother, more cost-effective travel experience.

FAQs: 

Q: Are there any airlines that don’t charge baggage fees?
A: Some airlines, especially full-service ones, include checked baggage in the price of your ticket. Examples include Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines, which allow at least one free checked bag. It’s always a good idea to check the baggage policy before booking.

Q: Can I get a refund for airline fees?
A: Generally, airline fees are non-refundable unless your flight is canceled by the airline. However, if you cancel within 24 hours of booking, many airlines will refund your fees as part of their cancellation policy.

Q: How can I avoid paying for seat selection?
A: You can avoid paying for seat selection by opting for a random seat assignment during booking or at check-in. Also, many airlines offer free seat selection for loyalty members or higher fare classes.

Q: What happens if my carry-on is too large?
A: If your carry-on exceeds the airline’s size limits, you may be asked to check it, often for a fee. Be sure to review the airline’s carry-on size restrictions and weigh your bag before arriving at the airport to avoid this.

Q: If I’m forced to check my bag because the overhead bins are full, will I still be charged?
A: While it used to be true that airlines wouldn’t charge for bags checked at the gate due to full overhead bins, this is no longer the case with most airlines. Many now charge for gate-checked bags, although there are some exceptions for smaller or regional flights. It’s best to check with your airline’s specific policies in advance to avoid surprises.

Q: How can I avoid paying for extra legroom?
A: Consider booking with airlines that include more legroom in their standard seating or choose seats in the back of the plane where extra legroom may be available at no extra cost.

Do you have any tips for avoiding airline fees? Tell us about them in the comments below!