Can I Avoid Paying Airline Surcharges?

The only way to avoid paying airline surcharges is to not use the services that airlines charge additional fees on, or to make sure that you stay within their limitations. Unfortunately, this isn't as easy as it sounds, as some include unavoidable surcharges like fuel. If you are not a regular traveller, Thomas Cook brings you the most common surcharges to help you try and reduce the amount you pay the next time you fly.

Surcharges You'll Encounter

Fuel Surcharge - This is one of the charges you cannot avoid as it helps airlines manage the rising costs of fuel. Unlike certain other surcharges, there is no fixed amount you can expect as it depends on which class you'll be travelling and how far you'll be flying. This charge is also applicable to children.

For example: British Airways will charge you around £12 for an economy flight to Europe or a UK destination. Whereas, a longhaul economy flight lasting longer than 9 hours will cost you around £66.

Baggage Surcharge - This surcharge is one that most travellers will be very familiar with. A number of airlines will allow you one bag for free, with a surcharge being levied for any additional bags you need checked in. Be careful though not to try and stuff all your luggage into one bag as it has to weigh below a certain weight. If you exceed the baggage weight restriction, you'll need to pay an additional charge.

Some airlines allow you to purchase additional baggage space online, which is much cheaper than paying for it at the check-in counter.

Telephone Booking - Some airlines will also charge you a small fee when you book your ticket via telephone, compared with their online booking services which are free of charge.

Requesting A Seat - Whether you'd like to sit nearer to the emergency exit, the aisle or just want to have a view through the window, you'll have to pay an additional fee for the privilege. This should be done well in advance and will cost you about £10 for short haul flights and up to £20 for long haul flights.

There are a range of other surcharges which you might come across, especially when flying in the US. As these charges range according to the airline, it is best that you contact your chosen airline first for a full description of their surcharges.