Traveling isn’t cheap.
Whether you are embarking on a cross-country drive to see Mickey and friends in Anaheim, California, or you’re hopping a puddle-jumper from Milwaukee to Minneapolis for a marathon shopping spree at the Mall of America, traveling expenses can add up fast.
Hotels: Before booking a hotel room make sure to inquire about all fees. Don’t be blindsided at check-out just because you neglected to read the fine print on your receipt. Some of the most egregious fees include mandatory valet parking. The privilege of being able to park in the hotel’s lot can set you back a bundle. Save money by storing your vehicle at a cheaper self-park lot. Also, don’t assume that Wi-Fi is free. While most properties offer the service without charging guests, some hotels will sock you with a fee for logging onto their networks. Finally, if you are traveling with the clan this summer don’t assume that reserving a room with two queen beds will be a money-saver for your family of four. Some hotels are now assessing fees for each extra guest after the first two, regardless of whether or not you need additional bedding.
Airlines: Commercial airlines are notorious for slapping passengers with exorbitant fees for everything from pillows to pretzels. However, the fees airlines are now charging passengers for carry-on bags is bordering on highway robbery. Spirit Airlines recently announced that beginning November 6th it will charge $100 for passengers to carry on a bag. That’s a monumental leap from the $45 fee it currently charges and could mean that you will be forced to fork over $200 round-trip if you want to carry a single bag on your flight. Allegiant Air charges $35 for passengers to carry on a bag; however, most other commercial carriers don’t assess a fee for carry-ons. Rather, they make their money by charging passengers to check-in their luggage.
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