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Southwest Early Boarding Now Costs An Extra $50


It once was the best bargain no-seat-reservation airline. Now it seems to be the same as all the other carriers by sneaking in extra charges to keep the high cost of flying going higher. Used to be, if you wanted to board a Southwest flight and grab a good seat, you arrived to the airport early and got into that A line. Then you’d fly in a front row window seat.

You can still do it, but it’ll cost you another $50 each time. So, that means when you bust your britches to find that SW $99 bargain special, if you don’t want to pay another 50% for your ticket, be prepared to sit in the back of the plane with all the other cheapskates.
Savvy Senior: Always Speak Up For Free Hotel Upgrades PDF Print E-mail


Just asking often works. Unlike air travel, speaking up (politely) can go a long way to get a hotel upgrade. At check-in, ask the front desk clerk if you can have a higher-class room for the same quoted price.

Have a good reason. If you're celebrating a special occasion, arrived late in the day (and the hotel has vacant rooms that won't be filled), or are a frequent guest.

Make brand loyalty count. Book your room directly with the hotel chain and state you've stayed at the property before. Join programs, such as rewards credit card or frequent-guest club. If you have any other affiliations, such as AAA, military or AARP, be sure to speak up about them.

Try tipping your way to an upgrade. Depending on where you're traveling, an extra $10 or $20, discreetly offered at check-in, may get you a roomier room. It never hurts to offer and/or inquire to get a better room for free or at a discount.
 
 
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