Being Right Isn't Always Good

Sometimes I don't want to be right.

For example, a few weeks ago when United announced their second checked bag fee, I predicted that other major US airlines would soon follow. Unfortunately, that has now proven to be true, as US Air yesterday announced they will be adding a $25 fee for the second checked bag for all economy class fares, with the exception of those purchased by their upper-tier frequent flyers (or for military and unaccompanied minors).

The fee will be effective starting with May 5, 2008 flights.

Whenever you have a second airline following suit on a policy like this, it means the policy is likely to stick, so expect NW, American, Delta and Continental to follow suit soon. One may be a maverick and hold out as a marketing advantage, but luggage fees look to be here to stay.

For most cruisers, this means either just figuring the extra fee into the cost of their vacation, re-thinking driving to the port, or packing lighter and planning on doing more laundry/dry cleaning on the cruise and being more like the Europeans when it comes to brilliance in mixing/matching and accessorizing outfits.

Next prediction I don't want to come true in this regard? Further limitation on weight for bags and enforcement of carry-on weight limits as well. Look to the major European carriers for clues of what to expect.