BiggBlue
Robin
- Time of past OR future Camino
- 17 Frances 18 Portuguese,
19 Primitivo 22 Norte
When I flew back today from Santiago to London, as I had done many times before, I went to check in my walking poles (which historically had been free of charge) only to discover there is now a charge of €40. In the past, it was complimentary, and even though I can disassemble them and fit them into my backpack, which I take us to carry on, that is not permitted.
I then decided I would have to leave my polls behind simply, and when I went to put them in a recycling bin, I saw another excellent quality set of telescopic walking poles had also been left there. In the meantime, I saw other pilgrims going off to pay the €40.
Before leaving them behind, I went online to see how much it would cost me to buy a new pair of the same brand, which was €29. I appreciate that airlines are commercial endeavours and look at ways to maximise their charges and profitability, but €40 is more than the cost of a large suitcase booked in advance. It does seem a bit harsh.
Plus having to buy more poles is somewhat wasteful too.
I then decided I would have to leave my polls behind simply, and when I went to put them in a recycling bin, I saw another excellent quality set of telescopic walking poles had also been left there. In the meantime, I saw other pilgrims going off to pay the €40.
Before leaving them behind, I went online to see how much it would cost me to buy a new pair of the same brand, which was €29. I appreciate that airlines are commercial endeavours and look at ways to maximise their charges and profitability, but €40 is more than the cost of a large suitcase booked in advance. It does seem a bit harsh.
Plus having to buy more poles is somewhat wasteful too.