Airlines are unbundling services that used to be included in the fare snacks, checked bags, entertainment, wi-fi, seat selection. In other words, the airline experience is becoming à la carte, with fees for everything. TripAdvisor.com's meta flight search allows you to compare the entire flight cost, including fees (for checked bags, entertainment, and food and drinks), and Kayak.com has added a Calculate Baggage Fees tool. SmarterTravel.com has a helpful downloadable chart listing all major airline fees. The only airlines that don't charge to check a bag for domestic flights are Southwest and JetBlue. (Checked bags are still free on most long-haul international flights.) And airlines have cut way back on baggage personnel so the wait at the carousel is even more brutal now as is the wait to check in. If you can pack in a single carry-on bag, do so.
Travel is full of pitfalls. One wrong step and your vacation could be ruined by a seedy hotel room, an overpriced restaurant, a wasted afternoon at a tourist-trap attraction or an overnight flight crammed in the middle seat. So, guarantee a smooth trip by planning thoroughly. Here's how to make all the right moves.