Resources for Airline Price Comparison

Airline price comparison is a big part of the travel industry. By searching a few parameters of different ticket options, businesses can save quite a bit of money. Associated travel fees run the gamut from additional baggage fees, to pet fees, to ticket change fees and more.

Take the time to learn about what some of these terms mean so that you can compare and contrast the costs that are relevant for your business. Here are some of those additional airline fees, along with resources which will help compare the prices for a plethora of airline carriers.

Carry-on and checked baggage

Airline carry-on baggage refers to the luggage one is allowed to carry into the cabin. Every airline has slightly different restrictions, as well as associated costs for baggage that must be checked if the baggage does not meet the dimensions. Be sure you know the checked baggage prices ahead before you book.

In-cabin pet fee

An in-cabin pet fee refers to the fee that is charged one way of travel for bringing a pet into the main cabin. The pet must meet certain size requirements and have current vaccinations.

Meal fee, snack fee, beverage fee

The meal fee, snack fee and beverage fee refer to the charges that airlines place on food and drink. These fees are usually charged in the coach level of service, while the food and beverage items are free of charge in the business and first class service cabins. Compare the prices different airlines charge; such fees can add up.

Alternate airports, nearby airports

Alternate airports or nearby airports, in terms of comparing airline prices, refers to an application found on many airline ticketing websites that allows the consumer to query prices at other airports close to their destination. Sometimes these result in lower prices for the consumer.

Ticket change fees

Ticket change fees refer to charges made for changing any portion of the ticket after booking. A typical change fee for the outbound leg requires the consumer to cancel the ticket in advance; the consumer then receives a credit back minus a fee in the neighborhood of $100. The credit is usually good for one year. For changing the inbound portion the consumer is usually charged about $100 plus any additional cost in the new ticket fare. Comparing the prices of change fees is integral for businesses that often change travel arrangements.

Flexible schedule

A flexible schedule refers to a traveler who can adjust their vacation time by one to three days. Many ticketing websites will allow the consumer to compare traveling on several days for both legs of their desired flight schedule.