Hey, travelers! If you’re planning a trip with Sun Country Airlines and wondering,
Is there an online booking fee?, you’re not alone. I’ve been caught off guard by sneaky airline fees before, so I dove into the details to figure out what’s up with Sun Country’s booking process. Spoiler alert: there’s a fee you need to know about, but there’s also a way to dodge it. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to follow and might save you some cash. If you want the latest scoop, you can always call Sun Country at
(844) 734-0813 for clarification.
The Passenger Interface Charge: What Is It?
Sun Country Airlines, a Minnesota-based low-cost carrier, does indeed charge an online booking fee, officially called a “passenger interface charge.” This fee, which started in April 2022, adds at least $22 per flight segment per passenger—meaning a roundtrip could tack on $44 or more to your total. I learned about this the hard way when booking a flight to Las Vegas and noticed my total was higher than expected. Unlike some airlines that clearly list this fee during checkout, Sun Country bakes it into the ticket price without explicitly breaking it out, which can feel a bit sneaky. For transparency, check their website’s “Bag Fees and Optional Services” page or give
(844) 734-0813 a call to confirm how it’s applied.
Why Do They Charge This Fee?
You might be wondering why airlines like Sun Country hit you with this extra cost. It’s a common tactic among budget carriers like Spirit or Frontier to boost profits while avoiding federal excise taxes on base fares. By labeling it a separate fee, they keep their advertised fares low but still make money on the backend. It’s frustrating, but it’s how low-cost airlines keep those $40 one-way tickets possible. I’ve booked with Sun Country for their cheap nonstop flights to places like Orlando, and while the base fare is a steal, these fees can add up if you’re not careful.
How to Avoid the Online Booking Fee
Here’s the good news: there’s a workaround to skip this fee entirely! Sun Country waives the passenger interface charge if you book your tickets in person at the airport. I know, who has time to drive to the airport just to book a flight? But hear me out—a friend of mine tried this at Minneapolis-St. Paul’s Terminal 2 and saved $44 on a roundtrip ticket. It took about an hour, including travel and parking, but the savings were worth it for her. If you’re near an airport where Sun Country operates, it could be a savvy move. Not sure if it’s worth the trip? Call
(844) 734-0813 to check ticket prices and compare before heading out.
Is It Worth Booking at the Airport?
Whether skipping the fee is worth it depends on your situation. If you live far from the airport, the gas, parking, and time might outweigh the $44 savings. For example, parking at MSP’s Humphrey Terminal costs about $5, and gas could add a few bucks. But if you’re a budget-conscious traveler or booking for a group (where fees stack up fast), it’s a trick to consider. I haven’t tried it myself yet, but I’m tempted for my next trip to Phoenix. If you want to explore this option, the folks at
(844) 734-0813 can confirm which airports offer in-person booking and what to expect.
Other Fees to Watch Out For
While we’re on the topic, Sun Country’s low-cost model means other fees can creep in, like baggage or seat selection costs. For instance, carry-on bags cost $25–$40 depending on when you pay, and seat selection ranges from $9–$75. Planning ahead by adding these during booking can save you money compared to paying at the airport. I once forgot to prepay for a carry-on and got hit with a $40 fee at the gate—ouch! To avoid surprises, check Sun Country’s fee calculator online or call
(844) 734-0813 for a breakdown tailored to your flight.
Tips for Booking Smart
To keep costs down, book early (21–60 days out) and check fares on Tuesdays or Wednesdays when prices tend to dip. Sign up for Sun Country’s email alerts for flash sales, which can offset fees with killer deals. Also, their rewards program lets you earn points on fees, which you can redeem later. I’ve used points to cover baggage costs, which felt like a small win. If you’re unsure about any fees or promotions, a quick call to
(844) 734-0813 can clear things up and help you plan a budget-friendly trip.
Your Next Step
Yes, Sun Country charges an online booking fee, but you can avoid it by booking at the airport or factor it into your budget as part of their low-cost model. With some planning, you can still score great deals to destinations across the U.S., Mexico, or the Caribbean. Ready to book your next getaway? Head to Sun Country’s website or give their team a call at
(844) 734-0813 to check fares, confirm fees, or get the lowdown on current deals. Safe travels, and happy saving!
