Yet, although airfare prices are on the rise, these amenities are now seemingly a luxury, and you can find yourself being charged multiple add-ons.

So how exactly did we get here?

It's completely related to the fact that more people are flying now than ever before.

They can charge more for these services and products.

Even though for the average American, that's something that they're gonna rely on no matter what, you know, I'm gonna pay the extra cost because I need to get to Texas to see my grandparents.

The airline industry made $33 billion from luggage fees alone last year.

That's a 15% hike from their earnings in 2022.

And that's not the only add-on making them the big bucks.

And particular airlines have started to charge for seat assignments. For a lot of it, it's even for all economy flyers.

I can pay an extra $20 to sit at the front of the plane, but I'm getting the same seat that the person in the back is getting.

Personally, when it comes to Wi-Fi, because I work for myself and I try to work while I travel, I will pay for Wi-Fi when I know that I can use it for business purposes.

But I personally don't enjoy paying for Wi-Fi on the plane because I feel like it should be included, you know.

Airport food pricing has definitely gotten out of hand and is astronomical in some cases.

You're either gonna eat what the plan gives you, which might be, you know, a small snack or you're gonna pay $30 for a meal that would normally cost you 15 outside of the airport.

I pack carry-on only for the most part.

I try to pack really light so I don't have to pay for extra bags.

I also fly a lot with points and miles, which is something that in my industry is talked about as just a great way to save money on tickets.

Tickets can be very expensive.

So if you're gonna use rewards programs or be loyal to an airline, you can get some rewards for that or even travel credit cards that can help you pay for flights.