Second in a 3 part series
It is hard to believe that it has been a month since the airlines announced the implementation of a fee for a second checked piece of luggage. On May 22, American Airlines announced that they would begin charging $15 for the first piece of checked effective June 15. It did not take long for other carriers (United and US Airways) to play MONKEY SEE, MONKEY DO and match Americans fee policy. So as the cost for fuel continues to increase so have the airline fees.
For business travelers, in particular those having attained a preferred level with their carrier of choice, baggage does not seem to be an issue. Many have found that they are exempt from some or all of the additional surcharges, particularly if flying on a full coach fare or in Business or First Class.
This winter, families traveling on vacation will find that 2 outfits per day is going to cost them an additional $30-80 round trip per person, to check a second piece of luggage. For a family of four, this can put a big dent into the vacation budget.
As the ski season approaches, knowing how big of a bag you can check and how much it weighs will be almost as important to travelers as the destination and travel dates. Finding this information on airline website’s is about as elusive as a powder run in April. We have compiled this list of general guidelines for you to consider as you pack for your winter vacation. A list of airline phone numbers and web sites is also provided so you can call or click for the most current information because this winter SIZE DOES MATTER!
This information is provided as a quick reference guide. For the most current information and fees, please contact your carrier.
Additional Information as of 06/15/08:
All surcharges are directional and will apply both inbound and outbound.
Fees for checked baggage are collected at check-in.
Bag size is maximum of 62 linear inches (height+width+length)
Bags in excess of 62 linear inches will be considered oversize and subject to fees per Airline guidelines
Maximum weight for checked bag is 50lbs.
Bags over 50lbs are overweight and passenger will be assessed accordingly per Airline guidelines
Ski & Boot Bag will be considered 1 bag BUT must not exceed 50lb limit or over weight fee will apply
*Baggage surcharges as of 06/15/08.
This information is provided is accurate as of June 15, 2008. Please verify all information with your airline prior to your departure to assure you have the most current rates for checked baggage.
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