How Much Does It Cost to Check Bags with US Airlines?

A travel cost is not limited to airfare alone when one is making a flight booking within or out of the United States. One of the most common surprise expenses for travelers is airline baggage fees. In the last ten years, airlines in the U.S. have been boosting baggage fees, and it is now crucial that consumers know the actual costs of baggage checking and how to avoid paying extra and avoidable fees.

Regardless of the purpose of your trip, be it business, leisure or visiting family, understanding baggage policies of airlines would allow you to spend better and make smarter decisions in the course of booking.

Understanding Airline Baggage Fees in the U.S.

Airline baggage fees refer to the charges airlines apply for checked luggage, and sometimes even carry-on bags, depending on the ticket type. The U.S. airlines have a tiered baggage pricing system that uses the following:

• Number of checked bags
• Weight of each bag
• Size (dimensions) of the bag
• Fare type (Basic Economy, Main Cabin, etc.)
• Route (domestic or international)
• Loyalty status or airline credit card benefits

Although policies differ, most U.S. airlines today impose a fee on domestic flights on baggage that is checked.

Average Cost of Checked Bags on US Airlines

On the majority of domestic flights in the U.S., the baggage charges are within a reasonable range.

First Checked Bag

• $30 to $40 per bag, one way
• This applies to most economy fares on major airlines.

Second Checked Bag

• $40 to $50 per bag, one way

Third Checked Bag and Beyond

• Fees can range from $100 to $200 per bag

These costs are charged per flight segment, meaning round trips double the baggage expense.

Airline-Specific Baggage Fee Overview

Although fees change frequently, here is a general idea of what travelers can expect from major U.S. airlines:

American Airlines

• First checked bag: Around $30
• Second checked bag: Around $40
• Oversized or overweight bags incur additional charges

Delta Air Lines

• First checked bag: Around $30
• Second checked bag: Around $40
• Offers one free checked bag on some international routes

United Airlines

• First checked bag: Around $35
• Second checked bag: Around $45
• Basic Economy tickets may have stricter carry-on rules

Southwest Airlines

• Two checked bags are typically free
• Weight and size limits still apply

Low-Cost Carriers (Spirit, Frontier, Allegiant)

• Checked bag fees vary widely
• Costs may range from $35 to $75, depending on when you pay
• Paying at the airport is usually more expensive

Understanding these differences is crucial when comparing airfare prices, as a cheaper ticket may end up costing more once airline baggage fees are added.

Carry-On Bags vs Checked Bags

Many travelers assume carry-on bags are always free, but that is no longer the case with some ticket types.

Carry-On Policies

• Most airlines allow one free personal item
• Basic Economy fares may charge for full-size carry-on bags
• Carry-on fees typically range from $25 to $60

Choosing to check a bag or bring a carry-on depends on your airline, ticket type, and travel needs.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees

Beyond standard baggage fees, airlines impose steep penalties for bags that exceed size or weight limits.

Overweight Bags

• Standard weight limit: 50 pounds
• Fees range from $75 to $200
• Bags over 70 pounds may not be accepted

Oversized Bags

• Maximum size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
• Oversize fees range from $100 to $200

These fees are added on top of regular airline baggage fees, making heavy or bulky packing a costly mistake.

International vs Domestic Baggage Fees

Baggage rules can differ significantly for international flights.

Domestic Flights

• Checked bags usually cost extra
• Fees apply per bag, per direction

International Flights

• Some airlines include one free checked bag
• Long-haul routes may allow two checked bags
• Weight limits may vary by destination

However, Basic Economy international fares may still charge for checked luggage, so always verify baggage rules before booking.

How Fare Types Affect Airline Baggage Fees

Fare class plays a major role in determining baggage costs.

Basic Economy

• Often no free checked bag
• Carry-on restrictions may apply
• Changes and upgrades are limited

Main Cabin / Economy

• Checked bags usually cost extra
• Standard carry-on included

Premium Economy, Business, and First Class

• One or more checked bags included
• Higher weight allowances

Choosing a slightly higher fare may sometimes save money if you plan to check multiple bags.

Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Benefits

Many travelers reduce airline baggage fees by leveraging loyalty programs.

Frequent Flyer Status

• Free checked bags for elite members
• Priority baggage handling

Airline Credit Cards

• One free checked bag for cardholders
• Applies to companions on the same reservation

For frequent travelers, these benefits can lead to hundreds of dollars in annual savings.

Tips to Avoid or Reduce Airline Baggage Fees

Airline baggage fees are avoidable with smart planning. The following are some of the tips that will help you save:

1. Pack Light: Use carry-on bags where necessary and lightweight bags.
2. Be Careful With Check Fare: Baggage policy should be checked thoroughly before buying tickets.
3. Pay in Advance: You should not always pay at the airport, but it is likely to be cheaper to do so online when you need to check your bags.
4. Weigh Your Bag at Home: Don’t pay overweight charges by weighing your luggage with a luggage scale.
5. Compare Total Costs: Baggage charges should be used to compare the ticket prices of different airlines.
6. Apply for Airline Credit Cards: If you travel frequently, a co-branded card can help you recoup the cost quickly.

Why Airline Baggage Fees Matter More Than Ever

As airlines keep unbundling services, baggage charges are a significant part of the travel costs. What looks like a low airfare can become costly once airline baggage fees, seat selection, and other add-ons are included.

When traveling internationally or going away on a long trip, it is always important to know the cost of the baggage in advance so that it can be budgeted well and no last minute surprises upon arrival at the airport.

Final Thoughts

Airline baggage fees are now a standard part of flying with U.S. airlines. Although the average baggage checking fee is between 30 and 50 dollars, there are other fees such as overweight baggage and extra baggage that can greatly add to your traveling cost. Knowing the baggage policy of airlines, researching the fare rates, and packing wisely, passengers can save money and have a more comfortable travel.

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