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Southwest Airlines: Pay Extra $40 To Board First


Remember all those TV commercials by Southwest that bragged about “bags fly free”? Now, the bargain flyer has joined other airlines in tacking on bothersome extras. Bags still fly free, one or two each, but if you want to board your flight ahead of all the in-line peasant passengers, you’ll need to pay an extra $40.

Used to be that if you checked in at the desk early enough, you were assigned to the A line and got in to grab choice seats and find room for your carry-on in the overheads. Or if you were a member of the SW loyalty program, you could proudly march past all the waiting lines.

Now, for non-member Southwesterners, it’s put up $40 or go to the back of the line.
Savvy Speak-Up Seniors Get Better Deals At Check-In PDF Print E-mail


As you arrive at the hotel’s front desk, you’ve already been informed what price your reservation states. So, do you just accept that it’ll be $199.99 plus local taxes and the usual add-ons per night?

Hell, no! There are many ways to cut that price, as well as get extra goodies, such as dining credits at hotel restaurants. All ya gotta do is politely, but firmly ask. First, of course, you tell the clerk you’re a senior, and ask if that gives you a discount.

Another way, working your senior charm, is to say that you and your companion are celebrating an anniversary, such as 50 years of wedded bliss. Or marking retirement after 25 years in the U.S. Navy, or 30 years as a math teacher. With a convincing story, you may get an upgraded room, plus a nice percentage knocked off that original quote.
 
 
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