Booking a flight can feel like winning a travel deal—until the final total at checkout tells a different story.
Airlines, especially budget carriers, often advertise rock-bottom fares only to pile on a stack of hidden fees for everything from baggage to basic snacks.
To help you keep more money in your pocket, here are 7 common hidden airline fees—and exactly how to avoid them.
1. Checked and carry-on baggage fees
Many airlines charge for checked luggage—and some even charge for carry-on bags. Overweight and oversized baggage? That’ll cost you extra, too.
Avoid it:
-
Pack light: Stick to a personal item (free on most carriers).
-
Weigh your bag at home: Avoid surprises at the airport scale.
-
Book airlines with free bags: Southwest, for example, includes two checked bags at no charge.
-
Pay in advance online: It’s often cheaper than paying at the airport.
2. Seat selection fees
Want a window or aisle seat? Prefer to sit with your partner or child? That might cost you—some airlines even charge for standard seats.
Avoid it:
-
Skip the seat selection: Let the airline assign one for free at check-in.
-
Join frequent flyer programs: Elite members often get free seat selection.
-
Book full-service airlines: They typically include seating in the fare.
3. Booking and payment fees
Some budget carriers charge extra for booking over the phone, at the airport, or even for using certain payment methods.
Avoid it:
-
Book directly on the airline’s website.
-
Use common credit cards: Avoid less-supported or foreign-issued cards.
-
Use travel credit cards that offer perks like fee reimbursements.
4. Food and beverage charges
Even water may not be free on ultra-low-cost carriers, and snacks or meals come with a price tag.
Avoid it:
-
Bring your own snacks (TSA-friendly and sealed).
-
Carry an empty water bottle to fill post-security.
-
Fly full-service airlines that include snacks or meals on longer flights.
5. Change and cancellation fees
Need to cancel or change your flight? Some airlines charge hefty fees, especially on non-refundable fares.
Avoid it:
-
Book flexible or refundable tickets if your plans may change.
-
Fly airlines with no change fees (e.g., Southwest).
-
Use travel insurance to protect against last-minute issues.
6. In-flight Wi-Fi and entertainment fees
Wi-Fi access and streaming options can cost extra—sometimes even on long flights.
Avoid it:
-
Download entertainment before boarding.
-
Use credit cards with Wi-Fi perks, like Amex Platinum or certain travel cards.
-
Check your airline’s app: Some offer free streaming with your own device.
7. Family seating fees
Want to sit with your spouse or children? You might need to pay for that privilege—yes, even with toddlers.
Avoid it:
-
Check in early (the sooner you check in, the more options you’ll have).
-
Call the airline in advance: Some carriers are required to seat families together, especially those with young children.
-
Use loyalty status or airline-branded credit cards for seating perks.
Airfare pricing has become a game of fine print. While that $49 fare might catch your eye, hidden airline fees can quickly turn a bargain into a burden. The key? Do your research, pack smart, and plan ahead.
With the right strategies, you can fly without getting nickel-and-dimed at every turn.
