Living There
There is good news and bad news for airline travelers these days. The bad news? Airlines have collected a whopping $38 billion in those extra charges such as reservation changes, food and yes, those annoying baggage fees. The good news? Florida Congressman John Mica has introduced a bill to cap these fees and Southwest Airlines is promoting two free bags on some flights.
However, it is not as it appears. Hidden in the fine print is the same old “gotcha”. The size and weight of the bags still matter. Bags over the limit will result in travelers paying those charges or repacking their personal belongings at the airline counter. Regardless of how many free bags are allowed, passengers are still subject to overweight luggage expenses.
This is why companies such as Cardinal True are introducing products like a digital luggage scale to the marketplace. These simple to use, portable devices allow travelers to fight back against these unnecessary fees. Using these tools to weigh suitcases before departure, provides protection against budget busting costs. They are portable therefore, returning home with extra pounds caused by souvenirs, clothes and gifts are no longer a problem. Use it once and it can pay for itself. As one traveler stated, “It cost me less than fifteen bucks and paid for itself the first time I used it.”
The new promotion by Southwest Airlines is appreciated. Anything the airlines do to reduce these ancillary charges is a step in the right direction. However, the fees will remain until travelers fight back. And as far as Congressman Mica’s bill is concerned, Washington is consistent; As they delay, travelers pay. Until true reform occurs, many travelers are investing in a luggage scale to avoid these charges
