Up, up, up and away with fuel surcharges

The price of oil is soaring, and it could affect your trip.

Think rising fuel costs won’t affect your cruise or air travel? Think again. Higher fuel prices are increasing the costs of providing travel services – and companies are passing along the increase to their customers just in time for Christmas.

For instance, a recent article on the BBC reports that British Airways travellers can expect higher fares as of November 15, with charges ranging between £10 to £15 for long haul flights and £2 to £10 for short-haul. United Airlines also announced a $5.00 per trip increase for domestic flights in a recent press release.

Many cruise passengers will also feel the pinch – even if they have already booked their cruise. According to the San Francisco Chronicle passengers can expect a bill in the mail or from their travel agents for this “fuel supplement.” Travellers can expect to pay an extra $5.00/per person per day for cruises after February 1.

No doubt consumers will be keeping an eye on fuel prices and hoping a dip in price may mean lower fares.