Despite relatively good-value airfares being available in recent times, there are still some traps in airline pricing.

Whilst fuel surcharges are now well-established, a new airline charge is fees for checked baggage. Mostly applying to domestic flights in the USA, and increasingly transatlantic on American carriers, it looks set to spread to South America and Europe. Mostly around US$15-20 for the first bag checked in, and US$25-55 for second bags. US airlines are projected to make US$3bn in 2009 from baggage fees alone, and given the economic state of the airline industry it is likely they are here to stay.

Generally you can avoid the fees on premium tickets (Business/First Class) and if you are an elite-level frequent flyer. Otherwise, budget for a hefty increase on your air-fare costs.

Baggage fees are a fast-changing area, and this is probably out of date as you read it. However we've found luggagelimits.com to be a very good source of information on these fees (and baggage restrictions generally).

There's good news though. You'll save all those baggage fees and more with a vRoam vSIM on your travels.

Mobile phones

Unlocking phones

Unlocking your handset is needed to take advantage of vRoam's low roaming rates. Here's information we've compiled on how to get a handset unlocked. The usual caveats apply: this information is only correct to the best of our knowledge, is subject to change and is provided by third parties.

Vodafone charges $50 to unlock handsets (contract or prepaid), with a discount to $25 if unlocked via its website, plus an additional $50 if a phone is less than six months old. Call +61414141414 or visit www.vodafone.com.au/unlock, with the unlock code provided on the website.

Telstra does not charge to unlock contract handsets after 2 years, or charges $27.50 after 6 months (prepaid or contract) or $50 if less than 6 months. Exceptions include USB modems ($100) and iPhones ($150). Call +61439125109; the unlock code is provided over the phone (although we have heard of delays, so do this in advance).

Optus does not charge for unlocking contract handsets. For prepaids they may charge $80 within the first 6 months, or waived if more than $80 of topups have been purchased. Call +61293425678; the unlock code is provided over the phone.

3 does not charge for unlocking contract handsets. For prepaids, 3 does not charge after one year, or charges $199 within a year. Call 13 33 20, the unlock code is provided over the phone.

Virgin requires a minimum top-up of $80 to unlock a handset. Call 1300 555 100, they should supply the unlock code within 5 business days.

Generally you will need the handset IMEI code to unlock a handset. You get this by dialling * # 0 6 # on the handset, which then displays the 15-digit IMEI code.

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