More and more companies are adding fees for options that are not truly optional making it difficult for consumers to find out the true price of a product or service until after they have committed or invested a lot of time in the purchase.
Airlines now charge for even a single checked bag and some are even charging for carry ons. Since very few people travel empty handed baggage is not an option. Its like charging extra for a pilot.
Mobile phone companies also have added fees that apply to virtually every customer and are not included in the advertised rates. A monthly rate of $29 for a cell phone plan isnt really $29 we all pay $40 after fees.
Hidden fees undermine the free market economy because they make it difficult for consumers to compare prices offered by competing companies.