Even seasoned business travelers, who are used to packing light, might want to consider packing even lighter in the future. That is, put less in your suitcases, but be sure to 'pack' your wallet with extra cash - you're going to need it.

It's no secret that fuel prices have skyrocketed over recent months - and there seems to be no end in sight. Frequent travelers are being hit with a 'double whammy'; they are paying more at the pump to gas up their cars and paying the price for increased airline fuel costs. The hard-hit airline industry is charging additional fees for checked baggage, choosing your own seat, curbside check-in and booking when using frequent flier miles. If you want a bottle of water or soda, that will cost you too - on average $2 each. If you want an alcoholic beverage, be prepared to pay about $7 per drink (up from$5).

According to U.S. Airways' C.E.O., Doug Parker, the additional fees are necessary because the average fuel cost (in 2008) to fly one passenger round-trip is $299. In 2007, the cost was $151 and $70 in 2000. In an email to his employees, Parker wrote "The economic rules of our industry have changed substantially and we simply can't keep running the same plays."

Following is a breakdown of fees being charged by the country's major airlines for checking baggage. *Please note: While these fees are accurate as of this writing, they may change at any time. It is good advice to check with your airline in advance of your next flight to be sure you have the most up-to-date fee schedule.

Airtran
First checked bag - $0; Second bag $10 (when paid online) or $20 if paid at the airport; each additional bag will cost you $50. Overweight bags (weights vary) can cost from $29 to $69 per bag. Checking oversized bags will cost you from $29 to $69 per bag as well.

American
First checked bag will cost $15; 2nd - $25; bags 3-5 $100, 6th or more $200 each. American charges $50 per each overweight bag and $150 for each oversized bag (63-inches or over).

Continental
No charge for first checked bag; 2nd bag - $25; additional bags are charged at $75 each (on non-stop flights) and $100 for connecting flights; Continental charges $50 for each overweight bag (51-70 lbs.) and will not accept any bags weighing more than 70 pounds; Oversized bags - 63 inches and over - $150.

Delta
No charge for first checked bag; 2nd bag $50; bag 3 $125 each; bags 4 through 10: $200 each. Fees for checking overweight bags range from $90 to $300 each(over 100 pounds not permitted); and oversized bags - $175. (ed. note: On July 30, 2008, Delta annouced that it is significantly increasing fees for all baggage service for tickets purchased on or after July 31, 2008 for travel on or after August 5, 2008. The fees listed reflect these new rates. If you have booked your ticket prior to July 31st consult Delta's website for the exact fees that apply to your situation.)

JetBlue
First checked bag is free of charge; 2nd bag - $20, $75 for each additional bag; fees for overweight bags range from $50-$100 and oversized bags (63-80 inches) cost $75 each to check.

Northwest
Northwest charges $15 for the first checked bag; $25 for the second; $100 for each additional bag. Other fees include overweight bags - weighing 51-70 lbs. - $50 and oversized bags $100.

Southwest
$0 for your first checked bag, second bag is also free; 3rd bag will cost you $25 and bags 4-9 $50 each; 10 and more - $100 each. Checking overweight bags will cost you $25 to $50; oversized bags - $50

United
First checked bag - $15; second- $25; bags 3 and 4 - $125 each and 5th or more $250 each. United Airlines charges $100 for each overweight bag and $125 for bags which are oversized.

US Airways
$15 for first bag; $25 for second; bags 3-9 will set you back $100 per bag; overweight fees range from $50 to $100 and oversized bags are charged at a rate of $100 each.

There are exceptions to these fees; especially for military personnel and for some frequent flyers. The fees listed are cumulative and must be doubled for round-trip travel.

With the increase in checked baggage fees, it is not surprising that many people are trying to find ways to bring their belongings in 'carry-on' bags. Flight attendants will be keeping a closer eye on the bags you bring aboard. If your carry-on does not fit easily in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, your bags may be removed and you will incur the fees for checking the bags anyway.

US Airways will also be charging additional for tickets booked through a call center ($25 for a domestic ticket; $35 international) and will increase fees to redeem Dividend Miles.

Most of the new fees are already in effect; some, however, will take effect in late Summer/early Fall of 2008. Once again, check with your airline for the most up-to-date information.

Travel news is not all doom and gloom! Many hotels are offering deeply discounted room rates and upgraded rooms for no additional fee. Cities which rely on convention travel business for their economic well-being have encouraged many first-class restaurants to discount their rates. Travelers with a little time on their hands will be pleased to learn that many popular attractions are discounting tickets and extending 'day passes' to three or four days instead.

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