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Haven’t Flown Since Last Holiday Season? Here’s What You Need to Know

If it’s been a while since you traveled on a plane, there are a few things you need to know that have changed with airlines and air travel in the past year – holiday travelers should get familiar with these relatively new changes in the industry before hopping on their flight home for all the festivities.

The air travel industry changes quickly, and if you’re an infrequent traveler that only hops on a plane for the holiday season, you’ve got some updates to get used to. USA Today reported on the top six ways air travel has changed in the past year.

1. Baggage fees have increased.

Unless you’re flying Southwest, which doesn’t have bag fees for the first two bags, expect to spend $5 more than you used to for checked bags. Generally it’s now $30 for one bag and $40 for the second.

2. Basic Economy is becoming standard.

Make sure you don’t accidentally buy a basic economy ticket when you don’t mean to—you’ll end up boarding last, unable to pick your seats, and depending on the airline, you won’t be able to bring a carry-on without substantial fees.

3. Booze costs more.

Southwest and American have both increased alcohol prices, and it’s against FAA regulations to bring your own mini-bottles.

4. In-flight entertainment has more options.

You’ll now have more options for things to watch during your flight, whether it’s live TV or more movies. Just be sure you know if your flight has the in-seat screen or if you’ll have to watch on your own device.

5. In-flight messaging is free on many airlines.

If you can connect to the internet, you generally won’t have to pay to send instant messages while you’re in the air.

6. No more peanuts.

Those with peanut allergies have spoken, and the snacks are no longer carried on most airlines.

[Photo: iStock]

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2 Comments
S
sdsearch November 21, 2018

The so-called free messaging on many airlines only works on iPhones. On Android phones, it typically only works with selected apps, which are not compatible with any other messaging other than users of those same apps.

O
ondraondra November 21, 2018

The A320neo with SpaceFlex cabin can join this bunch 😀