In order to be able to choose the best frequent flyer cards, you need to know the answers to several questions. Skis or snowboards are subject to normal checked baggage fees under Alaska Airlines' ski and snowboard baggage policy. Whichever airport you fly from, it's important to understand the airlines' responsibilities. Legacy airlines, however, are in danger of falling behind.

Star Alliance is the world's largest airline group, with 27 "full members" on its books. Many travel rewards cards are only available to those with a high credit score, and if you United Airlines have a low score (650 or less), you may find yourself being declined often and limited in your options.

Consider all airlines, even the lesser known African airlines. So your first consideration is what carriers have flights based in the airports that you can most easily access. Seats behind the bulkhead usually give you a few extra centimetres of leg room but it also means there's no possibility of stretching your legs out under the seat in front, which is a good option for taller flyers.

We're not sure of this configuration's fate—there's good chance it could be phased out and replaced by standard Alaska Airlines economy class. Since I'm a government employee, 95% of the time the airline for my travel is chosen for me via contracted city pairs and the Fly America Act.

There are exit row seats with more leg room, seats which by some quirk of aircraft design have no seat in front of them, bulkhead seats and seats in separate cabins that are off limits to younger passengers, as aboard Scoot and Air Asia, and airlines have it sussed.

Another thing to keep in mind is that almost every airline charges yet another fee if you change your flight with the help of an agent over the phone or at the airport. If the new ticket is less expensive (according to airline policies, you won't get a refund in this situation).

An exception to the checked-bag consideration is Southwest Airlines, which as of August 2017 did not charge for the first two checked bags. Please treat them as indicative - fares change all the time, and offers are ended, extended and introduced at short notice.