Mistake Fares, Merger Murmurs & Battling Bag Fees

We’re shining a spotlight on baggage (both travel and emotional …) this week as airlines raised bag fees almost in unison. So the guys talk through what happened, why, and - most importantly - what you can do to avoid paying those higher fees altogether. Plus, we dig into some Delta One news, break down a recent business class mistake fare, and sift through some (ridiculous) United/American merger chatter. Thanks to Surfshark for sponsoring this week’s episode! Go to https://surfshark.com/thrifty4 or use code THRIFTY4 at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - “Pitiful & Pathetic:” Feedback on the travel mistakes episode 04:05 - Nate, Mo, & Koko introduce the show from New Zealand! 04:50 - $410 business class fares to Europe: A mistake fare breakdown 12:20 - Translating Delta CEO’s statements about rising airfare 17:30 - New Delta One Suites & a new Delta One Lounge at MSP 22:55 - United’s (gross) new basic business class tickets 25:20 - Something Stupid: United & American merger murmurs 29:08 - Baggage fees are up … but why? 34:35 - How to avoid baggage fees 44:40- Listener Question: Would you fly east to Asia?  47:40 - On the spot: What is Kyle’s favorite piece of baggage? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at podcast@thriftytraveler.comGet 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.