How to save money on baggage fees: expert advice

Airplane passengers will soon face a new "surprise" - airlines are planning to raise prices for baggage check-in. However, there is a chance to save money because the fee amount depends on when you pay for the service.

United Airlines, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways are among the carriers that have already raised baggage check-in prices. Moreover, the price of baggage check-in increases if the check-in takes place at the airport or closer to departure, as reported by NBCDFW.

At the same time, there is a chance to save money if you pay for online baggage check-in in advance. In this way, carriers encourage customers to pay for baggage checks before the flight. According to airlines, this approach will free up employees in check-in areas and get travelers to the gate faster.

For example, American Airlines customers will pay $35 for baggage check-in on domestic flights if the service is booked online in advance, or $40 if they purchase the option at the airport. Previously, American Airlines charged $30 for both services.

However, there are exceptions. Customers who have airline-specific credit cards or other rewards credit cards, travel in a higher class, or have elite frequent flyer status can usually check in at least one bag for free on domestic or short-haul international flights.

Airline representatives explain that advance baggage checking is cheaper because it allows team members to spend more time with customers who need additional assistance during their trip. For example, United first started charging customers more for checked baggage at the airport back in 2020. A second checked bag will cost $50, or $45 if checked in 24 hours in advance.

It is emphasized that baggage fees bring in a lot of revenue for airlines. According to the latest data from the Department of Transportation, in the first nine months of 2023, US airlines earned more than $5.4 billion from baggage fees, up 25% from the same period in 2019. Airlines claim that higher costs, such as labor and fuel, their biggest expenses, mean they had to raise baggage fees.

Earlier, TravelWise told you about a passenger who bit a flight attendant and forced the plane to reroute.