He added that customers need to be aware that what they see as the lowest fare on a price comparison search may not wind up being the cheapest option once the fees are tallied.
“It’s not transparent until you’ve gotten a certain depth into the booking: ‘Oh, here’s the seat selection fee. Oh, here’s the baggage fee. Oh, here’s the carry-on fee.’ And watch out if you don’t check-in online, there’s a massive penalty if you don’t,” Vanderlubbe said.
Isn’t this already common? I’ve flown on a couple of budget carriers in the US that had such a rule. I was still allowed to bring my backpack which fit under the seat in front of me. The ticket price was low enough that buying the few things that I couldn’t fit in my backpack was cheaper than either paying to bring a suitcase or going with a more expensive airline. I wouldn’t do it if I was on a business trip and had to bring a suit, but the last time I traveled I brought presents for my hosts in my backpack, purchased clothing at my destination, and flew back with that new clothing in the space where the presents had been.
Fun fact: Spirit airlines charges 5 dollars for any beverage including water. Some guy didn’t know, asked for a cup of water, and then had to give it back. I don’t mind, because it means my ticket is cheaper. I did mind the extremely uncomfortable seats, but I’d still rather have $50 than be less uncomfortable during the flight.
Sure but flight prices suck in Canada. And I only see this making them go up more.