After already shelling out money for a flight...
Added fees for checked bags can be a pain. While they are an inconvenience for travelers, they are a huge source of revenue for airlines.
In fact, all additional fees raked in $4.5 billion for carriers in 2017 and most of that total can be attributed to people paying for checked bags. In recent years, major airlines like JetBlue, United, Delta and American have all raised their bag fees.
While bag fees are here to stay, there are some simple ways around them. Let’s break down what the major carriers charge and how to not have to incur these charges.
Generally speaking, there are four ways that passengers can avoid checked bag fees.
- Have elite status of fly with someone who does
- Have the right credit card or travel with someone who does
- Buy a premium ticket
- Take your trip for a special circumstance or to a specific destination
While each airline has policy differences, we can show you how these general rules apply to each. There is always a human element at play as well that might allow you to convince the check-in agent to waive an overweight bag fee.
Also, always make sure to check with the airline to get the latest information on their policies.