Exploring the Surge in Checked Baggage Fees by US Airlines

by Traveler Ninja March 25, 2024

by Traveler Ninja Published on March 25, 2024Updated on March 25, 2024

Exploring the Surge in Checked Baggage Fees by US Airlines

Hey, travelers! Hold onto your luggage since most major US airlines have just increased checked baggage costs in 2024! Looks like we might reconsider our packing techniques, Right?

In January, Alaska Airlines raise the cost of checking your first bag to $35 and your second bag to $45. Soon after, JetBlue, American Airlines, and United Airlines joined in, hiking their checked luggage prices by $5 to $10. Later, Delta chose to follow the same suit and increased by $5 for most domestic and short-haul international flights departing from the United States.

However, Southwest Airlines stands out by upholding its policy of not charging for checked baggage. Southwest allows every passenger to check in two baggage for no additional charge.

Here's a breakdown of the current baggage fees for major US airlines in 2024

Airline	First Checked Bag Fee	Second Checked Bag Fee
Alaska Airlines	$35	$45
Delta Air Lines	$35	$45
American Airlines	$35 - $40	$45
Hawaiian Airlines	$25 - $30	$35 - $40
JetBlue Airways	$35 - $45	$50 - $60
United Airlines	$35 - $40	$45 - $50

Why are costs increasing now?

Luggage fees, introduced by American Airlines in 2008 during a period of high jet fuel prices, have been a consistent source of revenue for airlines. In 2022, US airlines earned $6.8 billion from checked-bag fees. American Airlines topped the list with $1.4 billion, closely followed by United Airlines with $1.1 billion.

According to The Bureau of Transportation, domestic airlines received about $5.5 billion in baggage fees in the first nine months of 2023.

JetBlue justified their recent fee increases by saying, "While we don’t like increasing fees, it’s one step we are taking to return our company back to profitability and cover the increased costs of transporting bags.”

A spokesperson from Alaska Airlines commented, "As we navigate rising operating costs, including high fuel prices, we occasionally need to adjust our fee structure to maintain a high level of excellence in the service we provide.”

As luggage fees rise, consider Duffle Bags as a smart solution. These bags provide plenty of room and durability at an affordable price, making them an excellent choice for any traveler.

How to Avoid Checked Baggage Fees

Nobody loves unexpected fees in-flight travel, especially checked luggage fees. Fortunately, there are a few savvy strategies to help you avoid these fees and travel light.

Achieve airline Elite status

Airlines reward their loyal customers with exclusive benefits such as early boarding, privileged access to better seats, airport lounge access, and more.

If you fly enough to obtain elite status with a major US airline, you won't have to pay to check your luggage. As you reach elite status tiers, you will be allowed to check more and more oversized bags without paying additional fees.

Pack light and smart

Avoid hefty airline baggage fees by packing light. Plan your outfits ahead of time and choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. Consider the weather at your destination and pack accordingly. Use travel-sized toiletries to save space. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane and stick to a few pairs of adaptable shoes. By packing thoughtfully with suitcases and luggage sets, you can skip the checked bags and have a more enjoyable trip.

Get an airline credit card

Getting an airline credit card is an easy method to avoid baggage fees. While these cards frequently include an annual charge, they are usually worth it if you expect to travel a few times per year. Airline credit cards often include at least one free checked bag and possibly more. They also offer other benefits, such as preferred boarding groups and the accumulation of frequent flyer/loyalty points.

Fly Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines has set itself apart from the competition for years with its renowned "Bags fly free" policy. This policy allows each ticketed passenger to check two pieces of luggage for free. While many other considerable US airlines charge around $35 for the first bag and even more for the second. Flying Southwest can result in significant savings, especially for families or travelers with many bags.