Not Just American Airlines: Air Travel Nightmares To Avoid On Your Next Flight

Posted on June 29, 2010 by Libby Kane


Sure, airlines are feeling the pinch in these economic times, but we’ve lately been getting the distinct impression that we’re being scammed: We were almost tricked into spending $100 on an upgrade we didn’t want, snacks we could have brought ourselves, water bottles, and even blankets (which now cost $8 on American Airlines).

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Dodge The Hidden Upgrade.

The last time we flew, we screeched to a halt in front of the self check-in kiosk.

Are you carrying any illegal items? No.

Has anyone else had access to your baggage? No.

Do you want to upgrade your reservation? Yes.

The ‘yes’ button was in line with all of the ‘no’ buttons—before you ‘no’ it, you could be a hundred dollars poorer.

2. BYOB (Blanket).

We shuffle onto the plane, which clearly came from the Arctic, since it was about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. But, we were told that blankets cost $8. Making the cabin freezing felt like extortion. If you aren’t a frequent enough flyer to invest in a small blanket or travel pillow, at least remember to bring a sweater.

3. Come With Snacks.

Once you’re on the plane, even basic food can cost a fortune. We’ve seen a mini package of Pringles sell for as much as $4. Instead, before traveling, pop into your local grocery store and buy travel snacks at a reasonable price. You can probably buy healthier fare, too.

4. Fill An Empty Water Bottle Once You’re Through Security.

Because of our reusable water bottle, we don’t have to pay $2.50 for hydration.

5. Board With Reading Material.

It takes a certain kind of person (read: a desperately bored one) to pore over SkyMall. Instead of buying a $20 paperback at the gate, bring your own book—we usually get ours at used book shops, or simply borrow them from the library.

6. Don’t Forget Your Headphones.

No way are we paying as much as $5 for the worst, cheapo earbuds ever. All we need to do is remember to carry on the sweet headphones our aunt gave us last Christmas—when we book our flight, we make a Google calendar reminder with what to bring.

And, of course, we look up carry-on and checked luggage fees ahead of time.

So, airlines, bring it on! Just let us know before you start charging for seat belts.

—
Follow LearnVest on Twitter @LearnVest! Follow Libby Kane on Twitter @LVLibby!


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  • http://twitter.com/linnaf Linna

    This blogpost is hilarious (and true with the SkyMall magazine)- which I do peruse if I have nothing else to do :) . And very helpful, I definitely bring my own empty water bottle, and will bring healthy snacks next time!

  • http://lifedividend.biz/ kt

    this post is very helpful. I am hoping to start traveling more by air and these points will probably make life a lot easier.

  • Guest

    I tried using a water bottle on my last trip – only one problem. Once you get past security there isn't a water fountain anywhere. I scoured the entire terminal for one and didn't find one. Apparently they intentionally removed them forcing you to pay $3 for a bottled water.

  • http://twitter.com/amkade Allison Kade

    Hey Linna,

    Glad you liked it! Let us know if there's anything else you're looking forward to seeing in the Daily!

    Allison, Editor

  • Guest

    I had the same problem at Logan Airport in Boston a few months ago. But the TSA guy pointed me in the direction of the nearest snack cart, who was more than happy to fill up our water bottles with water from their kitchen sink.

  • Lauren

    The comment about bringing used/library books reminded me of one of my favorite websites: http://www.paperbackswap.com.

    You post books that you are willing to swap and then for every book you send someone, you get to chose a book to be sent to you. All you pay for is the shipping (usually less than $3/book) for the books you send. Best of all, when you get a book, it's your to do what you like with (keep, give away, repost on paperback swap), so you don't have to worry about overdue fines or accidentally dropping the book into the bathtub.

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