Is your bag overweight by 1 pound? Would you like a pillow and blanket for your nap? How about an in-flight snack? These small luxuries could cost you—unless you’re prepared. With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s important to learn the root cause of some pesky fees and how you can avoid them.

Booking

Most major airlines charge a fee to book a flight over the phone, which on average is close to $25. Third-party travel websites charge between $6-$12 per ticket for online booking. To avoid these fees, book your flight directly on an airline’s web site.

Total estimated savings: $25

Changing a Ticket

Many airlines charge domestic ticket holders for altering an itinerary. Change a ticket on your flight, and you can expect to pay a fee ranging from $75 to $150. The best defense against these fees is to solidify plans before you book. Paying a slightly higher fare if you book closer to your departure date typically costs less than getting hit with a change of ticket fee.

Total estimated savings: $75-150

Curbside Baggage Check

In the words of my dad, “This is a complete waste of money.”  If you don’t feel like rolling your bags into the terminal yourself, well, it will cost you. Most airlines charge $2-$3 per bag for curbside check-in. So unless it’s absolutely necessary, get a little exercise and roll the luggage inside and avoid this annoying fee.

Total estimated savings: $2-3 (depending on number of bags)

Checking Bags

Last year on a trip to Europe I, Leslie, managed to fit everything I needed for two weeks into one suitcase, which as most of my friends will tell you, is a feat in itself.  Although some airlines are now charging for the first bag, ($15 and up), most airlines only charge for the second bag. Think you can avoid the second-bag fee by stuffing everything into one suitcase? Guess again. Going just 1 lb. over the 50 lb. limit triggers an overweight fee of $29-$125. Solution: Pack light and stick to carry-on bags whenever possible. If you must, ship extra heavy bags to the hotel ahead of time to avoid these fees.

Total estimated savings: up to $125

In-flight Amenities

Gone are the days of free peanuts and soft drinks on flights. Only a handful of airlines offer free snacks and drinks anymore. Drinks typically run about $2, while a pillow and blanket will cost you up to $7. To avoid paying $3 for a miniscule bag of potato chips, pack snacks and an inflatable pillow from home and purchase a drink at the airport terminal after your security check.

Total estimated savings: up to $12

Don’t blow your holiday budget on travel. Ask questions, plan ahead and compare your airline options before you hit the tarmac.