All Of It: How to Pack and Save Money on Baggage Fees

Hosted by Alison Stewart and featuring Sally French, Lead Writer at NerdWallet

As summer approaches and vacation plans ramp up, the latest episode of WNYC’s ALL OF IT delves into the essential travel updates and money-saving strategies travelers need to know. Host Alison Stewart is joined by Sally French from NerdWallet to discuss significant changes in travel regulations, airline policies, and practical tips to make your summer trips smoother and more affordable.

1. Real ID Implementation: What You Need to Know

The episode kicks off with a critical update on Real ID, a long-awaited travel requirement that officially took effect on May 8, 2025. Alison Stewart introduces the topic by highlighting the recent enforcement deadlines and their implications for travelers.

Sally French explains, “[Real ID] is this long awaited change in travel where you need to have a designated Real ID compliant to go through TSA” (01:22). A Real ID-compliant identification card is marked with a gold or black star, signaling its validity for domestic flights. For those without a Real ID, alternatives such as a passport or Global Entry card are acceptable.

Despite the rollout, compliance rates were not universal. Sally notes, “Even yesterday only 81% of travelers across the nation were Real ID compliant” (02:06). This leaves 19% of travelers needing to navigate additional screening processes. She reassures listeners, “The Department of Homeland Security did put out a statement yesterday saying that the rollout went smoothly” (02:06), suggesting that non-compliant travelers shouldn’t panic but should be prepared for possible delays.

For individuals needing to obtain a Real ID, Sally advises visiting the DMV and remaining persistent in securing appointments, as many offices are experiencing high demand and limited availability (03:06).

2. Navigating International Travel Requirements

Alison shifts the conversation to international travel, specifically addressing the newly instituted Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by the United Kingdom. Sally explains, “You need to fill out a digital form online in advance. It costs £16 to apply” (04:36). This ETA is mandatory for U.S. citizens traveling to the UK for tourism, visiting family or friends, short-term study, or business purposes, and is valid for trips up to six months.

Additionally, Sally emphasizes the importance of passport validity for entry into the Schengen Area. “Your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry” (06:08), warning travelers that a passport expiring soon could result in denied entry.

3. Southwest Airlines' Baggage Fee Changes and Airline Policies

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Southwest Airlines’ policy changes regarding checked baggage fees. Previously renowned for allowing two free checked bags, Southwest has announced new fees, aligning with broader industry trends of increasing ancillary charges.

Sally French explains, “Airlines are looking for more ways to make money, whether that's increasing checked bag fees, fees to choose your seat” (07:24). Despite these changes, she points out a silver lining: airfares have actually been decreasing. “Over the past year, airfares are down 5.2%” (07:24), and over ten years, they’ve decreased by 12.1%, outpacing inflation rates (07:24). This means that while base ticket prices are lower, travelers may end up paying more through additional fees unless they adopt strategic spending habits.

Sally advises travelers to embrace a bare-bones approach: avoid checking bags, opt for middle seats, and be flexible with flight arrangements to save money (10:27).

4. Maximizing Travel Discounts and Credit Card Benefits

Listener calls introduce practical tips for saving money on travel. One caller from Croton Hudson shares, “Don’t be shy about asking for discounts” (10:39). Sally builds on this advice by highlighting the benefits of an AARP membership. “Even though AARP is for Americans ages 50 and older, anyone can join, no matter your age” (11:26). Memberships offer discounts on hotels, rental cars, cruises, and more, often surpassing the cost of the membership itself.

When discussing credit cards, Sally differentiates between branded travel credit cards (specific to airlines or hotels) and general travel credit cards that offer transferable rewards. She recommends cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and American Express Platinum for their robust travel benefits, including free checked bags and comprehensive travel insurance (15:57).

5. Understanding Travel Insurance: When It’s Worth It

A listener questions the value of travel insurance, contemplating whether to pay for increased airfare flexibility or insurance that allows cancellations. Sally responds by outlining scenarios where travel insurance is beneficial, such as connecting a flight to a cruise. “If your flight is delayed by one day and you miss the cruise, not only do you lose a day, but the entire trip” (17:55).

She advises that premium travel credit cards often include insurance benefits, which can be more cost-effective than purchasing separate policies. “Many premium credit cards actually offer travel insurance as a benefit for booking that trip on the card” (17:55).

6. Affordable Vacation Destinations in the U.S. and Europe

Sally shares insights on cost-effective vacation spots. Within the U.S., cities like Palm Springs, Bozeman, Montana, and Savannah, Georgia offer affordable travel options. For instance, Palm Springs remains a top pick due to low round-trip fares and hotel discounts, despite its high summer temperatures (16:14).

For international travel, Sally recommends European cities such as Reykjavik, Paris, Munich, and Dublin for their cheap airfares. She suggests flying into major hubs and then using budget airlines or trains to reach less expensive destinations. Additionally, opting for a second city (e.g., Hamburg instead of Munich in Germany) can result in significant savings on accommodations and activities (19:35).

7. Listener Interactions and Practical Advice

Throughout the episode, listener questions provide real-world contexts:

• Carrie from Croton Hudson shares her upcoming trip to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos, emphasizing the importance of asking for discounts, which Sally reinforces by highlighting the wide range of benefits available through AARP membership (10:47, 11:26).

• Harris from Woodstock, New York, concerned about traveling without a Real ID, receives practical advice to verify his ID’s compliance and arrive early at the airport to navigate any additional screening (12:33, 13:03).

• A musician upset with Southwest’s baggage rules is advised to explore credit card options that offer free checked bags, thereby mitigating the impact of the new fees (14:07, 14:59).

Conclusion

This episode of ALL OF IT equips travelers with essential information on navigating new travel regulations, maximizing savings through discounts and credit card benefits, and choosing affordable vacation destinations. Sally French’s expertise from NerdWallet provides actionable insights, ensuring that listeners are well-prepared to embark on their summer adventures without unnecessary financial strain.

Notable Quotes:

• “Even yesterday only 81% of travelers across the nation were Real ID compliant.” – Sally French (02:06)

• “Airlines are looking for more ways to make money, whether that's increasing checked bag fees, fees to choose your seat.” – Sally French (07:24)

• “Even though AARP is for Americans ages 50 and older, anyone can join, no matter your age.” – Sally French (11:26)

• “If your flight is delayed by one day and you miss the cruise, not only do you lose a day, but the entire trip.” – Sally French (17:55)

For more detailed insights and continuous updates on travel and culture, tune into future episodes of ALL OF IT on WNYC.