Travel Fees: The Norm, The New Norm, And The Strange

I've been subject to many travel fees over the years but recently they have really increased. As the travel and hospitality industry try to keep rates low and entice travelers, they tack on or increase fees. I've been recently subjected to resort fees in Vegas and elsewhere in the US, service fees from travel vendors, and baggage fees on airlines. Can you believe paying $25 per bag on an airline? Yup, I paid $50 for my bag and my husband's ba to fly just last week - and that was each way! Sure, rates and fares are low but you have to watch out for the hidden (or not so hidden) fees that can really add up. You need to weigh the costs between low fares or rates and additional fees that may be attached. It's all about the convenience you want and the cost you are willing to pay when traveling!

What is the strangest travel fee that you've encountered?

The single biggest news story in 2010 has been about all of the extra fees that airlines are charging as a way to supplement flagging revenues. In the second quarter alone, the airline industry picked up $2.1 billion in extra fees and charges. In our October Readers' Choice issue, on stands now, we reported the somewhat unsurprising news that among all the many clever new fees, your absolute least favorite charge was the dreaded baggage fee. (Fortunately, with some planning and the right bag it is possible to get by with a carry-on and avoid the checked-bag fee.)

Consumers and travel industry professionals are starting to rally together. A collective of groups submitted a petition with thousands of signatures yesterday via the web site, MadAsHellAboutHiddenFees.com, to the Department of Transportation. The goal? To force the airline industry to create greater transparency about fees during the booking process. (Look for the final ruling in Spring 2011.)

While baggage fees (and airlines in general) are getting most of our attention, I'm curious to hear about other weirdo charges you've noticed on a bill recently, whether on a cruise, at a hotel, or at the rental car checkout counter.

What are some new and bizarre—and perhaps patently unfair—fees you've been stuck with in your travels?

Why not post your own experience with fees here or check out responses at Budget Travel.

Posted by: Nina Willdorf, Editor in Chief, Friday, Sep 24, 2010, 3:58 PM