While base airfare is cheaper than it used to be, airlines are increasingly making up the difference by charging for extras.

Checked baggage costs vary wildly per airline. Some airlines that sit in the middle of the pack, charging standard rates that pinch but don't shock. Other airlines, though, have exaggerated checked ...

Checking a bag is something frequent flyers try mightily to avoid. It adds time, extra logistics, and cost to air travel. When little ones come along, however, packing light just isn't always possible ...