Airlines Were Charging Solo Travelers More …Until We Called Them Out

What else would we talk about on this week’s podcast than one of the biggest stories in travel? The three largest U.S. airlines were quietly charging some solo travelers higher fares …until we caught them in the act! We break down this crazy story and discuss why - and how - it was happening. Plus, we laugh at Southwest’s botched rollout of its new baggage fees, look into some (awesome) rare Etihad partner award space, and Gunnar reveals what he thinks is the second sleaziest thing airlines do in airfare.

Watch us on YouTube!

(00:00) - An update on this solo traveler pricing tactic…

(00:50) - Find Something Out (from Gunnar’s house!): How Kyle reported this important story

(04:10) - Something Hot: Some rare Etihad partner award space in First Class and Business

(07:30) - Something Cold: Southwest (unsurprisingly) botches its baggage fees rollout

(12:00) - A word from our sponsor (us, and how Thrifty Traveler Premium can help find the best flight deals for you!)

(14:00) - The Extra Mile: How and why airlines were charging more for solo and business travelers than everyone else

(29:45) - A listener wants to start planning her Sept. 2026 trip now … but should she?

(33:00) - On the Spot: What other sleazy airline tactics does Gunnar hate

Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [e-mail]

Get 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!

See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!

Follow us on…
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
Bluesky