Unfortunately in 2010 you can not assume that simply because you purchased cheap airplane tickets that you are flying inexpensively. Cheap travel is possible, but you need to be aware of what the airlines are doing after you purchase tickets to make your travel more expensive.
The following are easy steps you can take to ensure that the cheap airline tickets you purchase remain cheap:
Whenever possible, carry-on your luggage. If you must check more than one bag, look into shipping you luggage via the post office or other means to see if you might save money.
If you are checking baggage, order your baggage tags online as most airlines will charge you for baggage tags at the airport.
Airlines are increasingly charging money for what they deem prime seats in coach. The earlier you purchase your tickets and go online for your seats (usually one month prior to traveling), the more likely you can secure acceptable seats without paying more.
When purchasing tickets with frequent flyer mileage make certain that you will not want to later change your flights, since such changes are becoming increasingly expensive.
Be aware that often even changing your flight to an earlier flight the same day you can incur substantial change fees.
Cheap travel remains readily available. Just remember, the airlines are doing everything in their power to make these cheap tickets more expensive prior to your boarding the plane.