Airlines worldwide are now becoming more and more an a-la-carte service. Some airlines charge for soda pop (Spirit Air). Most USA carriers charge for USA travel up to $128 for the first two checked bags fees under 50lbs.
Even Southwest now charges 10 bucks if you want to jump in front of the line to board their aircrafts first.
On domestic flights and flights to Mexico, Caribbean, and Canada to change your ticket you will need to cough up $150 plus any difference in ticket price and you may have to throw-up on a change fee of $250 to Europe.
Now remember many of these baggage fees did not take place until mid-summer 2008 onwards. This year these U.S. airlines alone could collect well over 3 to 4 billion dollars in just baggage fees.
The trick is to make sure you stay flexible, be sure not to change your ticket, and pack light and carry on your luggage if possible.
