The reappearance of gourds, paper snowflakes, runny noses, and Christmas lights are a sure sign that the holiday season has rolled around once again.
While the holidays are generally a time spent with family, listening to songs of cheer, giving thanks and celebrating a new year, one Grinch sure knows how to empty your pockets and mess with your travels. Anyone who plans on traveling during these next two months of festivity gets to experience the true nightmare before Christmas: crowded airports, ignorant tourists, and expensive baggage fees.
Airlines such as Delta, United Airlines, and American Airlines charge up to $20 for the first bag checked, along with additional fees for additional bags. As if that wasn’t costly enough, bags weighing over fifty pounds can cost over a hundred dollars. The airlines become like parental figures forcing you to pack light. You can either pack your boots, scarf, and winter coat, or opt to freeze instead to avoid fees. If you decide to check more than two bags, you might as well hand over your wallet. When it’s all said and done, checking your bags costs nearly as much as your ticket. Bah humbug!
Although the woes of traveling fees this season sound dreadful, don’t go getting your snowman panties in a twist. Like with most problems, there’s always a solution. In this case there are three.
One: Trick the system. Many travelers avoid the baggage fees by deciding to drag their duffels aboard, squashing them in overhead compartments while inconveniencing passengers behind and below them. Now that everyone brings their bags aboard, finding a place to stow your possessions in less than five minutes while the flight attendant breathes down your back is impossible. If you arrive a few minutes late for your flight, the overhead compartments are guaranteed to be full, and flustered flight attendants generally end up checking your bag free of charge.
Two: Fly Southwest Airlines. Southwest is one of the only airlines that allows passengers to check their bags for free. There really is a God! Keep in mind that the holiday season is the airports’ most hectic time of year. So no dilly-dallying an hour before take-off. Get to the airport at least two hours in advance if you wish to see your beloved belongings on the other end of your journey. At least you get to keep a little extra spending money in your pocket. However, gratuity is appreciated.
Three: Don’t even bother. If you just can’t fit your entire winter wardrobe into two bags or less, just give up. Airport travel is not for you. Consider driving or stay home. This may not be the most convenient advice, but it is definitely the cheapest. After all, there’s no place like home for the holidays.
Jordan Jennings is a sophomore journalism major. She can be reached for comment at [email protected].
