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The Future of Airline Fees

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Airfare Deals

The Future of Airline Fees

SmarterTravel

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

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This has undoubtedly been the year of the fee. We’ve seen so many airlines add first-checked-bag fees in particular that it’s hardly controversial when another carrier jumps into the fray (as AirTran and Delta have done this month).

But with fees becoming so commonplace, what’s next? Last week, United announced a discount on its first-checked bags when passengers prepay online. Will more airlines use their fees to fuel gimmicks and promos like this as they compete for your business? Are “fee sales” the next frontier for airline marketing? Do fee discounts make you any less unhappy about paying fees in the first place? Weigh in with your thoughts on the future of fees by leaving a comment below. Thanks!

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