Continental Raises International Bag Fees, Too

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

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Continental has hopped aboard the second-checked-bag-fee express. Passengers will now pay $45 online and $50 at the airport to check their second bag on transatlantic flights. The rule is effective immediately for travel on or after September 15.

Delta, American, and US Airways have also added this fee, and it’s worth noting that Continental is a slightly better deal (and I use that term very, very loosely). Both American and US Airways charge a minimum $50, and US Airways charges $55 at the airport.

United will almost definitely match the fee, and other carriers with substantial international service (Frontier?) could follow suit.

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