If you haven't flown recently, you may not realize that the world of travel isn't what it used to be. Stricter security rules, increased fees, scaled-back services--it's all part of heightened airport security and airline frugality.
Even if you flew just a few months ago, the next time you fly you'll probably find pervasive changes throughout the industry. Why? Because U.S. airlines lost about $2 billion last year and are always implementing cost-cutting measures to survive.
The good news? Lower carrier costs help keep fares down. But travelers still have to contend with a lot of changes. Airlines have increased fees for paper tickets and extra luggage (you'll pay at least $40 for that third checked bag); imposed heavy restrictions on nonrefundable tickets; eliminated senior discounts; increased fares for children flying without an adult; and, on most domestic flights, eliminated hot meals.
At the airport, your carry-on items may be scrutinized in ways you never imagined, sometimes at more than one checkpoint. Don't be surprised if some carry-on items, like electric curling irons and curlers or blunt-edged baby scissors, are considered lethal weapons. Here are some pointers to help you through the maze:
In an effort to slow skyrocketing operational costs, many airlines will stop issuing paper tickets in the U.S. entirely in the coming months. In the interim, travelers requesting paper tickets will pay fees between $10 and $20 per reservation.
E-tickets come with one big benefit for travelers. You have one less thing to carry, and, unlike travelers carrying paper tickets, you won't have to worry about paying a hefty, as much as $80, lost ticket charge.
Even though 85% of the airline tickets sold in the U.S. are e-tickets, some travelers still have two concerns: Lost reservations and global acceptance.
Best-selling author, Margaret George, whose books include the recently published Mary, Called Magdalene, as well as Cleopatra, and Mary, Queen of Scots, spends an average of three to five years traveling the globe to research and write each of her historical epic novels.
George says switching to e-tickets has made travel easier, but suggests vigilance. "Even though it's rare for e-ticket reservations to be lost, always get a confirmation from the airline, then hold onto it." Confirmations can be sent by e-mail (print out and take with you) or via regular mail.
In the push for global acceptance of e-tickets, the airlines are striving to better accommodate travelers. Some airlines have reciprocal travel agreements with other airlines on certain routes. Airlines that have this agreement are able to access each other's reservations data when they need to reaccommodate passengers.
Some airlines, such as Southwest, have nationwide kiosks that allow passengers to check-in with their credit card. This technology saves time standing in lines at ticket counters. Some airlines also allow you to check in from your personal or hand-held computer. More airlines are expected to inaugurate the technology in the future.
If your airline has the technology, you can save time by printing your own boarding pass from your computer before you leave home or when you get to the airport. Visit your airline's Web site for more information. At the airport, look for the airline's kiosks where you can do your own paperwork and check in your luggage.
if you dispute a fee or fare charged by the airline, you have consumer protection when you use your credit card. You do not have the same protection with debit cards. Avoid buying your airline ticket with cash or check. Payments by cash or check are red flags that trigger security attention, and may cause you to be delayed at the airport.
Confirm your flight a few days before departure, and at the same time give the airline more than one contact telephone number. The airlines are required to notify you and get you on another flight, but you don't want to be inconvenienced if they cut flights as a cost-saving measure at the last minute. Always confirm your flight in case you need to readjust your plans.
Typically, you'll have to pay a change fee, which varies by airline and can cost $100, if you don't use your reservation exactly as ticketed--even if you change the departure time, but not the date. Plus, on most major airlines, you'll now pay a fee to fly standby. And if you miss your flight because of unforeseen circumstances, you'll have to buy a brand-new ticket. Avoid surprises by asking questions about your ticket's restrictions when you book the flight.
The solution? Wear your ID. It's a snap to show your documents, and they're less likely to be lost, when you wear an ID "wallet" around your neck. The transparent, plastic ID case usually sells for less than $10 at airport stores and through airport merchandise catalogs.
George points out, "I've been delayed at airports because my bracelets have set off security scanners. The jewelry was returned (once she forgot to go back to the security gate to retrieve a bracelet, but it was returned to her after she called the airport when she arrived home), and I was allowed to continue the boarding process, but it's a hassle."
Moral of the story: It's a good idea not to wear a lot of jewelry and draw attention to yourself when you travel. It's also a strategy for avoiding delays at security checkpoints. Metal in shoes and belts also can trigger security scanners.
Pack less, travel lighter. Most airlines now charge if your bag weighs more than 50 pounds. Make sure your carry-on is roomy enough to consolidate as many belongings as possible. If the bag can hold your coat or jacket, that's even better. Your outerwear will less likely be lost in transit or left at security checkpoints.
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