By Sarah Henshall

The world seems to be spinning a little faster these days.  At least that’s one excuse for why travel seems more complicated lately.  Airlines are charging by the pound, and United States security measures are time-consuming and confusing. 

AAA Vacations has compiled some of the latest fees, policies, and important information to educate the weary traveler.

Airline Fees for Lavatory Usage
We are not there yet, but as Airlines watch fuel costs eat away at dwindling profits they feel forced to implement new fees seemingly weekly.  Today, when searching for an airline ticket, it seems fees and surcharges often constitute about half of the price. 

American Airlines broke ground on the newest fee announcing a $15 charge for the first checked bag for economy passengers.  Since then Northwest Airlines, United and US Airways have climbed aboard.  Spirit Airlines charges $15 for check-in online and $25 at the airport.  Airlines are also charging $5 to $35 for premium economy seats in exit rows or bulkhead. 

Currently, Southwest Airlines is the sole major carrier resisting the fees in various categories, not charging for the 2nd checked bag or unaccompanied minors.

Competitors typically charge $25 for the 2nd checked bag and up to $100 for an unaccompanied minor.  

The various fee schedules are incredibly confusing and change constantly. For example, factoring  $100 each way to send your child unaccompanied to visit their grandparents it greatly affects the bottom-line price.

AAA travel agents are constantly receiving training and updates on fees and policies of the airlines and can offer helpful insight to compare the actual final costs of each trip.

Other miscellaneous fees:

• All airlines charge between $25 and $50 for bags over 51 to 70 pounds and up to $150 for bags exceeding 70 pounds.
• Ticket change fees are running between $75 (AirTran) and $150 (American, Continental, United, US Airways) for domestic flights. 

Check-in Packing
Remember 3-1-1. New regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.

AAA travel agents know the secret to getting through security smoothly is to de-clutter your carry-on bag. This lets the Transportation Security Officers get a clear, uncomplicated carry-on X-ray image.  When possible, pack liquids in checked baggage. You will get through security faster.  Limit quantities to what is needed for the duration of the flight

Fastest Check-in
Checking bags vs. shipping them depends on how many bags you have.  International flights generally let you check 2 bags and shipping overseas can be pricey.  However for domestic flights, if you have more than two bags, shipping services become more economical.
 
AAA Members receive an automatic discount with the online Luggage Club.  The major value is convenience, bags will be delivered to your cruise ship stateroom, and golf clubs will be delivered to your resort room without the hassle of airport security.  Shipping requires prior planning. The most economical price usually demands the shipper pick up the bag 3 days in advance of the flight. 

Let me back in the country
Make sure your passport has not expired.  The cost for a new passport is substantial and the wait time is generally 4 weeks. 

AAA Members can receive all the necessary paperwork and passport photos at their local AAA Office. U.S. citizens need a passport for all international air travel. Travelers may still use the ID method to travel by land or sea from Mexico or Canada to the US until June 1, 2009. Passports cost $100 for adults and the new PASS Card will run you $45.  If you don’t have four weeks to wait be sure to add $60 for expedited service.

AAA Vacations monitors all new policies and fees, keeping abreast of everything that affects travelers in order to objectively compare carriers and plan your trip to avoid common pitfalls and inconveniences. 

Sarah Henshall is Vice President of Travel and Branch Operations at AAA Carolinas. For the hottest deals, call AAA Vacations at 800-398-0379, visit your nearest AAA branch or visit AAA.com/travel.