I got my knickers in a knot before the plane even left the tarmac.
Okay, we all know the airline industry has changed. Travel has changed. And we've all been forced in the last few years to grapple with rapidly appearing extra fees when flying, a few bucks for that second suitcase, a charge for booking over the telephone with an agent, more greenbacks when you request a seat change (not even an upgrade, just a simple change can cost you).
I consider myself well-travelled, though perhaps not well-heeled, so you'll understand my reaction to an unexpected surprise charge on a recent flight.
Increasing airline fees make one nostalgic for the days of the Spitfire. Photo: Tim Beach.
I had just settled down for my 4 hour, 20 minute flight from Newark, New York, to San Jose, Costa Rica, in late December. I was realizing a longtime dream of celebrating Christmas elsewhere. I arranged a ten-day holiday in Costa Rica, where I would spend the Yuletide season zip-lining, horseback riding, and white-water rafting (and, admittedly, hoisting a few cold cervezas) instead of eating five meals a day and gluing my butt to my Aunt Fran's EZ Boy chair.
My state of mind: bliss. My number one priority: an in-flight movie (or two) paired with a glass of vino (or two). My first mistake: well, you know what they say happens when you assume anything.
I connected my head-set (I brought my own) and reached for the controls of the tiny movie screen. That's when I learned to my utter surprise (and annoyance) that I could watch a movie of choice if (a) I paid for the privilege and (b) if I had in my possession one of two specified credit cards.
Pay for an in-flight movie? I refused. It was a matter of principle. It was totally unexpected. I had flown on this carrier before and watched flicks for free. I believe in transparency. Some airlines are better than others. Hidden airline fees are the bane of the traveller's existence.
I shared my whinge with the fellow next to me who said he has experienced the same thing on other carriers. So my airline of choice for that flight isn't alone.
SOLUTION:
Before booking your next flight, get the lowdown on those extra charges. Here are two reliable sources to help you.
• Across And Abroad recently published Your Ultimate Guide to Hidden Airline Fees
• Hidden Airline Fees.com does a great job of explaining those annoying baggage fees.
Have you been slammed with any hidden airline fees recently? Share your thoughts with other Canadian Travellers. And if you have any helpful tips, by all means, please share the word.
Happy Travels!
