If you want to travel this summer, or move, now is the time to buy your airline tickets. Whereas last year, and even in 2008, you could score a cheap ticket by waiting until the last minute, this year airlines have regained the upper hand.
Smaller U.S. cities like Norfolk, VA, Cleveland, San Jose, and even Philadelphia are experiencing large bumps in the prices of their tickets, some more than 35% of what they were last year.
Plus, many airlines are taking advantage not just of customer’s bags, but the desire for extra room on a flight. The added fees can range from $10 on shorter flights to $40 on longer flights.
But there’s always the possibility of switching to a seat with extra leg room without paying any added fees. Southwest Airlines charges $10 to check in early, which usually results in an early boarding. But sometimes, especially on flights that aren’t full, you can switch for free.
Having an aisle or window seat closer to the front of the plane is a small benefit that many customers are comfortable paying for. These added fees for small improvements in one’s travel experience are no big deal to many, especially if it offers the added comfort of peace of mind.