The Joy of Air Travel (Why I Fly Southwest Every Chance I Get)

I did a little flying the week before last, and I can only come to one conclusion; the airlines don’t want us to check our bags. I can’t imagine why, but there must be some top-secret reason that only airline industry insiders understand. There must be smart people behind big airline company desks that have decided it’s in their best interest for you and me to carry it all on.

This conclusion is because I can’t in my right mind believe it’s because Delta or United, or whoever needs an extra $25 from me. (Or that if they did need the money, that they don’t just charge me $25 more for my ticket.) It would make no difference to me if my ticket was $220 or $245, but they have to be smart enough to realize that passengers are fed up with the whole pay-to-check plan. Conclusion; they don’t want us to check our bags.

And not that the whole flying experience wasn’t joyous enough, but now everyone is trying to save a buck (which I’m convinced is less about money, and more about principle). On my way back to Denver, there were two suitcases, a purse, a pair of skis, two mountain bikes, three goats, and a Subaru Outback in the overhead compartment. (Which takes the entire Minneapolis-based flight crew 48 minutes and 227 compartment door slams before it actually stays clicked shut.)

I am making the assumption that smart people run the big airline companies, so my only conclusion can be that they started charging to check bags, knowing full well that none of would want to pay the extra charges. They knew we’d get mad, but they also knew we’d get used to it. And just as they secretly planned…we all stopped checking bags. Mission accomplished.

I will pay the extra $25 and check my bag. It’s just easier that way. (Assuming it’s not essential that your checked baggage actually arrives.) Like I said, I would have gladly paid extra for my ticket. Just stop making me feel like you’re nickel and diming me to death. (Plus, it will leave more room for the goats.)

Can I borrow a couple of bucks for some peanuts? (Exact change would be appreciated.)

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