Bag Fees Go Up, United Throws Down & 10 More News Stories
The Thrifty Traveler Podcast
Intro
Gunnar and Kyle open the episode, announce topics, and discuss packing and upcoming trips.
The news has been relentless to kick off the spring, so the guys spend the show tackling a dozen different stories. There’s an update on those awful TSA lines, JetBlue already raised its baggage fees, and Air France/KLM just raised surcharges on award tickets. We also look into United’s splashy new “Relax Row” seats, discuss why American is reversing course on seatback screens, and throw out some quick takes on news like rule changes around Delta’s 20-minute baggage guarantee. Plus, a listener dubs Gunnar “The Redheaded Clown.” Brutal.
00:00 - When do you start packing for a trip?
01:43 - Rosie’s daughter introduces the show from Costa Rica!
02:20 - We’re a finalist for the 2026 Shorty Awards! Vote now at thriftytraveler.com/vote
03:26 - Are we out of the woods with TSA issues?
06:40 - JetBlue raises baggage fees, when will the other airlines follow?
09:15 - Womp, womp: Flying Blue raises fuel surcharges on award tickets
12:15 - United’s buzzy new Relax Row – would we book it?
16:50 - American wants to reinstall seatback screens
20:40 - Two new nonstop routes to the Philippines?!
23:25 - A word from our sponsor (us): Sign up for the Extra Mile newsletter today!
24:00 - Delta’s 2,500 bonus SkyMiles bags on time rule change
23:35 - Delta inks new inflight Wi-Fi deal with Amazon
27:00 - We love Flighty’s new update
28:35 - Amex ditches Saks, adds ChatGPT credits
30:20 - Attention, skiers: Epic and Ikon passes are now on sale
32:15 - Buying MLB tickets with Capital One miles is back
33:40 - What seat on the plane is best for your skin?
36:00 - Gunnar (finally) gets roasted in the reviews
38:15 - On the spot: Start, bench or cut Delta’s new transpacific routes?
Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas
Video editing by Kyle Thomas
Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot
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