Nowadays airlines will nickle and dime you for the simplest of things. By preparing correctly beforehand you can eliminate these extra charges that add up. If you travel once a year the extra fees charged might add up toan extra 50 bucks a trip. It doesn’t sound like a lot on a vacation that might cost thousands, but every little bit helps.

Almost all airlines charge for extra checked bagged so pack lightly. You probably don’t need to bring soap and tooth paste, a tooth brush, towels, shampoo, etc. Wherever you go there’s a good chance there’s a store that sells these items in small quantities. If a checked bag fee is $25 per bag you can pack lightly and simply buy what you need at your destination for a fraction of $25.

Some airlines charge for water and food on the place. You can pack a snack and eat beforehand, then eat at your destination. Unless you’re on a 5+ hour flight there’s no need to eat on the airplane. Regarding paying extra for a pillow or a blanket, think of it this way. When you go on a roadtrip you’re usually driving and uncomfortable at times, so you can surely handle it on a 2 hour flight sitting down.

Finally there are the $2 curbside check-in fees. By checking in online or at a kiosk you can accomplish the same exact thing. It’s a small fee but if you always do the little things it keeps adding up.

- Edwin, CashTheChecks.com