
It all started in 2006 when Ryanair introduced fees for each checked-in piece of luggage. Now a slew of carriers including, most recently, American Airlines, Continental and Delta are charging for checked bags. And with airlines facing record lost-luggage levels, there's still no guarantee your suitcase will end up in the same place you do.
But there are a few services that help make air travel if not cheaper, then certainly less stressful. Luggage Forward ( www.luggageforward.com ) ships baggage from your home or office directly to your destination, with rates starting at $52. It can...