Consumerism Commentary - Latest Comments in Airline Baggage Fees Increasing in Popularity

Re: Airline Baggage Fees Increasing in Popularity

TJJ — Sat, 16 May 2009 08:29:10 -0000

My question: If they lose my luggage, do I get a refund?

Re: Airline Baggage Fees Increasing in Popularity

Erica — Wed, 13 May 2009 13:55:47 -0000

It's worth pointing out that some airlines, such as Southwest, don't charge these fees. Would be great if you could do a roundup of who does and doesn't charge.

-Erica

Re: Airline Baggage Fees Increasing in Popularity

Marc — Wed, 13 May 2009 10:00:33 -0000

Airlines want to attract business travelers, and cost is a big issue. As former frequent business traveler, I can tell you first hand, they do not want to check bags and rarely do.

Leisure travel is not a big market compared to business travel and airlines are trying to survive.

Re: Airline Baggage Fees Increasing in Popularity

jim — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:07:49 -0000

People just don't like being nickel and dimed, especially when not all airlines charge for checked baggage and the cost isn't uniform. It makes it difficult to make a quick equal comparison between two things that should be substitutes. I understand that we've always been paying for it but it's like medical insurance, some people subsidize others and in the end everyone wins without feeling ripped off.

That being said, I'm glad the option is there. If an airline can't stay solvent without these types of fees, I think it's a necessary evil if you want the choice of carrier.

Re: Airline Baggage Fees Increasing in Popularity

LSails2 — Wed, 13 May 2009 08:41:47 -0000

I don't like paying baggage fees. It's annoying. How many people can actually travel anywhere without taking at least one piece of luggage? Yes, charge for meals, upgrades, liquor and any other unnecessary extras. But, if you are flying, it is most likely a distance from your home and you need a bag of personal items with you. Of course, to avoid the checked bag fee, we could all wrestle a giant carry-on onboard - another pet peeve. I hate those people who holdup the boarding process because they try to wedge all their personal belongings into a carry-on. Is anyone really that pressed for time that they can't deal with checked baggage? BTW, read your site often, good stuff :)