Navigating the world of baggage fees doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the basics, being aware of airline policies, and implementing smart packing strategies, you can minimize the impact of baggage fees on your travel budget. By following our tips, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and ensure a smoother and more cost-effective travel experience.

Check the Facts

Airlines have recently updated their baggage fees, reflecting an overall increase. For instance, some airlines now charge $40 for the first checked bag and $50 for the second checked bag for economy passengers within the United States. The airlines say that the baggage fee increase is a response to rising maintenance and labor costs, as well as the general economic environment in which pricing power has become more challenging in the domestic market. This is part of a broader trend across airlines.

Some airlines will allow a limited number of bags before they start charging, while others offer deals for frequent fliers. Many airlines even offer calculators that let you work out exactly how much bringing your luggage will cost you. It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, and there might be exceptions or additional charges based on specific routes or membership statuses. Check the airlines’ websites or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding baggage fees. Bottom line: investigate the costs and pricing plans for your airline, so you don’t end up blindsided by unexpected baggage fees at the airport.

Book First Class

Booking first class flights can be a savvy choice if you’re traveling with multiple bags. Despite the higher upfront cost of first or business class tickets compared to economy fares, these premium tickets often include complimentary checked baggage allowances. Generally, first class passengers can check at least two bags for free, with some airlines offering even more generous allowances.

Beyond baggage perks, booking first class can provide a more comfortable and spacious travel experience. You’ll enjoy priority boarding, luxurious seating, enhanced meal options, and dedicated flight attendants, all contributing to a more relaxing journey.

Considering the convenience, comfort, and potential cost savings on baggage fees, booking first class could be a smart investment for your next trip, especially if you have multiple bags to check. So, when planning your travel arrangements, it’s worth comparing the overall value of first class tickets against economy fares, factoring in both the ticket price and the included perks.

Look into Veterans Deals

For those in the military, many airlines offer baggage fee exemptions, so it’s advisable to check policies and have a military ID ready. Many airlines offer exemptions or deals on baggage fees for active-duty military personnel. Some airlines may also extend these benefits to dependents traveling with military members. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the baggage policies of different airlines to find the ones that offer the most favorable terms for military personnel. This proactive approach can help you make informed decisions when planning your travels to enjoy a more cost-effective journey.

Use Your Airline-Branded Credit Card

Many airline-branded credit cards will waive your baggage fees when you book using the card. Considering the fact that those baggage fees can add up to a whopping $250, it might be time to consider nabbing an airline-branded card for your travel needs. Several airline credit cards will also allow you to check your companion’s bags free as well. But these policies change from time to time, so it’s a good idea to research before you book.

Keep It Light

Of course, the easiest way to avoid baggage fees is by traveling light. If you pack only the necessities and make smart decisions, you can drastically reduce the cost of how much fees you’ll pay on your baggage. Of course, if you do any shopping on your trip, that could increase the cost, so it might be smart to look into shipping your purchases instead. And if the airline you’re flying with has charges per bag, as opposed to by the weight of the bag, you can invest in one big piece of luggage that gives you the space you need. The per-bag system is more common in the U.S., while the by-weigh system is more common in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Carry-ons can cost you too

Yes, some airlines do charge for carry-on bags, though this practice varies by airline and often by fare type. Typically, budget or low-cost carriers are more likely to charge for carry-on luggage as part of their à la carte pricing strategy, which keeps base ticket prices low by charging extra for add-ons, including luggage.

Mainline or full-service airlines usually allow at least one carry-on bag and a personal item — like a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag — at no additional charge, especially on domestic and international flights. However, with the introduction of basic economy fares by many airlines, even some full-service carriers have started to limit free carry-on baggage for passengers booked in the lowest fare classes. Passengers booked in basic economy may only be allowed a personal item that fits under the seat in front of them, with additional fees applied for full-size carry-on bags that need to be placed in the overhead bins.

These policies can be quite specific to each airline, the ticket fare class, and sometimes the route or destination. For example, international flights may have more generous carry-on allowances compared to domestic flights.

RELATED: How to Avoid Baggage Fees: 9 Tips to Save Your Travel Budget

Do the Math

While it can be frustrating to account for every single bag you want to bring with you on your vacation, there’s actually an advantage to baggage fees. You can figure out just how much you’re paying per piece of luggage, and compare it to flights where everything’s included. Many airlines that charge baggage fees offer reduced rates on seats. Often, the flights with baggage fees still come out at a significantly lower cost. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re trying to stay on budget when seeing the world.

FAQs:

Q: Are baggage fees the same for all airlines?
A: No, baggage fees can vary significantly among different airlines. Each airline has its own fee structure and policies, so it’s crucial to check with the specific airline you’re flying with to determine the applicable charges.

Q: Do baggage fees apply to both checked and carry-on luggage?
A: Baggage fees typically apply to checked luggage, whereas carry-on luggage is usually allowed within specified size and weight limits without additional charges. However, some airlines may have restrictions or charges for oversized carry-on bags.

Q: Can I prepay baggage fees to save money?
A: Yes, many airlines offer the option to prepay baggage fees when booking your flight. This can sometimes provide cheaper rates compared to paying at the airport. Check the airline’s website or contact their customer service to explore this option.

Q: Are baggage fees refundable?
A: In general, baggage fees are non-refundable, even if you decide to cancel or change your flight. It’s essential to review the airline’s refund policy and terms and conditions regarding baggage fees before making any bookings.

Q: What should I do if my baggage is lost or damaged?
A: If your baggage is lost or damaged during your journey, immediately report the issue to the airline’s customer service or the baggage handling department. They’ll guide you through the process of filing a claim and seeking compensation for the loss or damage incurred. It’s also a good idea to look into baggage protection before your flight.

Got any other helpful pointers about baggage fees? Share them with us in the comments.