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Simple Steps To Save You $$ On Your Next Flight

BOSTON (WBZ) ― As the airlines continue to struggle with the rising cost of fuel, travelers are seeing all kinds of extra fees. You'll pay more for everything from snacks to baggage. But there are a few things you can do before you leave home to help keep those fees to a minimum.

Shonda Smith found out about the baggage fees the hard way. "I have children, little children, they require toys, extra clothing, so that's why I have to pack more," she explained.

On her last trip she had to move some clothes around to avoid a surcharge. "I did have to take some items out and I did have to take some baggage on the plane," she said.

Pack too much and you'll pay. Today's baggage fees are stiff, with some airlines now charging $15 for your first checked bag, $25 for your second and as much as $100 for a third, and that's each way! That doesn't even include the fees for oversize or overweight bags. George Hobica of Airfarewatch.com suggests shipping some items ahead. "They're going to charge you a lot less than the airlines," he said.

Another tip: put your suitcase on the scale before you even leave the house. "It may be cheaper to have a second bag that's not overweight than one bag that's overweight, so divide and save," Hobica suggests.

You might also want pack an extra lightweight suitcase to keep you from going over the weight limit on the way home with gifts and souvenirs.

Before you book the flight, check the fees as well as the fares. "The more expensive ticket may be the cheaper ticket, ironic, but it's true," said Hobica.

For example, a $100 ticket with two round trip baggage fees ends up more expensive than a $150 ticket with no baggage fees. Shonda says she'll definitely be doing the math before flying in the future. "I think I'll be a little more careful," she said.

Fees vary depending on the airline, so check with the carrier's Web site for specifics on what you'll be expected to pay.

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