Carriers have also looked to reduce how much they're spending to subsidize smartphones for contract customers, in part by trying to limit how often people upgrade to new devices.

WSJ: Verizon Wireless Overhauls Wireless Plans

But smaller, less prominent schools often lack the capital to upgrade their facilities or to market themselves and are being squeezed out.

ECONOMIST: Private education

In many cases airlines will try to find a passenger who is willing to take a later flight, often sweetening the pill with a free upgrade.

BBC: Q&A: Air passengers' rights