Victorinox combination roll-aboard/backpack

United Airlines announced today that they, too, will begin adding a $15 fee for the first bag you check and $25 for a second bag. This follows the announcement from American Airlines a few weeks ago that they are adding a charge for checked bags.

Airlines are struggling to survive as they face huge fuel price increases. This is one way they can charge their customers more without exactly charging their customers more. I mean, really, it's your own fault if you pay the fee. Right?

Well, without getting too cynical, let's look at ways you can avoid the charges.

1) Don't fly. Not an option for those of us who fly for business, want to visit family or want to take a vacation more than 300 miles from our home.

2) Fly airlines that don't add this fee. Right now, American and United are the only airlines that charge you for the first bag, though many airlines already charge for a second bag. Southwest Airlines is a holdout and charges no fees for the second checked bag.

3) Only bring carry-on luggage. This has been my mantra for ages. Other than checking a bag filled with souvenirs when I return from a trip, I can only remember one time that I actually checked a bag TO my destination in the last seven years. Most luggage manufacturers offer baggage that is 22" or less, the maximum size for a carry-on. Just wait, airlines will probably change even this rule, forcing us to buy smaller bags.

Half-packed carry-on bag

If you do have to suck it up and pay for your bag(s), carry your meals with you for your flight and save on having to purchase your meal from the airline. Even cutting back on one meal during your journey is enough to pay for that bag or two.

Regardless of which of these options you choose, please do continue to travel. It's important to increase our exposure to and knowledge of the world around us. You can watch documentaries on TV, you can listen to NPR, but there's nothing like experiencing another culture and cuisine to open your mind up.

Travel Well!

Please read about my travels on my Wanderlust and Lipstick blog.

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