Planning Summer Travel? Expect Additional Fees

As you’re getting out your calendars to plan that summer vacation this year, keep in mind that you’ll be paying a bit more to the airlines to travel during the busiest summer travel timeframes. The top five U.S. airlines — American, Continental, Delta, US Airways and United — are adding “peak air travel surcharges” of $10 to $30 per ticket booked from June 10th through August 22nd. The surcharges pretty much begin when most schools let out for the summer.  The only exception? July 4th, which travel experts say is traditionally a slow day for air travel.

So, in addition to the hiked up fare surcharge, make sure to account for baggage surcharges for any checked luggage you’ll be bringing along on your summer vacation.

“It’s part of what I consider to be rather clever marketing,”  TravelZoo’s Gabe Saglie told CNN. “Pushing a very low fare is one thing, but by the time you’ve paid for your ticket and arrived at your destination, it’s a very different picture.”

So how can you keep your travel costs as low as possible this summer? Here are a few tips:

1. Book your airline tickets as early as possible. Many airlines offer discounts for advance bookings. Plus, you’re more likely to get the best rates on the days you want to fly.

2. Look for packages. Book your airline tickets and hotel (and even rental car, if you need one) as a package. You don’t need to go through a travel agent to secure packages — most websites like TravelZoo and Orbitz offer package deals.

3. Be flexible. If you aren’t required to fly on certain dates, take advantage of the ‘best fare’ searches on airline and travel sites, which recommend the best days to travel to get the lowest fares.

4. Pack light. Fees for checking in your baggage can add over $100 to your overall budget if everyone in the family checks a bag. Try to travel light or combine your travel necessities so you have to check the least number of bags.

5. Pack snacks in your carry-on: Airlines don’t offer complimentary meals anymore, so you’ll end up paying $8 for a vegetable plate and over $10 for a sandwich on many flights. Pack snacks in your carry-on to avoid paying a hefty price for meals mid-air.