I think I’ve heard it all now. First, airlines started to charge passengers for meals onboard…that’s how it really began. Then came fees for extra services, like pillows, blankets, even headphones. Recently, baggage fees have been coming at us fast and furious, and also charges for seat selection and now carry on baggage with some US carriers. What will happen next, are they going to charge us for using the bathrooms? Oh wait a minute…European airline RyanAir is already thinking of doing that…I digress.
The question is, are discount airlines really offering good deals, or is it all a joke? Once you add on all these fees, are you better off than if you were to book with a regular airline? I know we’ve got it good in Canada with Westjet and Air Canada (no charges for luggage for travel within Canada yet, thank you!), but let’s do a comparison here.
Are “No Frills” Airlines the way to go?
I’ll start with Allegiant Air. I recently looked at rates for a family of 4 travelling from Bellingham, Washington to Palm Springs. The base price started at $854.04US, but after you added on the taxes and fees, the charges really added up. There was an extra $372.56 in taxes and fees after all was said and done. Regular taxes of course, and then the seat fee, convenience fee, and baggage fee. Plus, keep in mind that some airlines make you pre-pay your luggage that you’re taking with you, so you get a "discount" from what you’d have to pay at the counter. Yes, you will need to guess how many suitcases you’ll be bringing, even if you’re booking a couple of months ahead.
Another airline, Southwest Airlines, tells you right off the bat that you will save at least $120 with them, just because of the fact that they don’t charge for baggage fees. These are the kinds of tidbits to look for. Some airlines will charge you $25 for your first bag, and $35 if you have a second one. Don’t forget, that’s per direction, so you’re doubling that.
All in all, it’s extremely important for travellers to look at the big picture and think, if I book with these "no frills" airlines, I’m paying for everything else…seats, bags, etc. Make sure you do your research, and compare between airlines. Some like to make the initial price look really cheap, so you think you are getting a great deal. However, after all these hidden fees are added on, it’s not so much of a deal in the end. Need help figuring out what to do? That’s the reason why dealing with a travel agent is beneficial. We’ll take care of everything for you so you’re not left wondering if you got the best deal you could get.
