Transporting your bags at the airport can now be one of the more expensive aspects of travel. Gone are the days when checking a bag was a free service. Now, major airlines impose fees for checked bags, adding extra costs to your overall travel expenses. In 2008, airlines started charging around $15 per checked bag, and today that fee has nearly doubled to $30 to $35 for each bag. This means that for each leg of a round-trip itinerary, travelers could end up shelling out an additional $60 to $70 on top of their basic fare, and the rates go up for additional bags.
In 2022, passengers paid about $6.8 billion in total baggage fees, up 17% from 2019, despite the fact that fewer passengers flew on U.S. carriers in 2022. With this in mind, it’s essential for travelers to know how to reduce or avoid these costly fees. That’s why we have spoken to travel experts to get the best advice on saving on baggage fees.
1. Fly with certain airlines. There are a few airlines that still don’t charge for a checked bag. For example, Southwest allows two free checked bags. The “Big Three” Gulf Airlines – Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Emirates – still offer free baggage, as well as Air India. It’s important to keep in mind that while these carriers don’t charge for bags, their fares might not necessarily be cheaper overall.
2. Combine bags. Families can potentially consolidate multiple bags into fewer bags, cutting down on checked-bag fees. However, travelers should be aware of weight restrictions and potential additional fees for consolidated suitcases.
3. Skip checking a bag. If possible, the best way to avoid paying a checked-bag fee altogether is to travel light, only with a personal item and/or a carry-on bag. Travelers can make use of well-packed backpacks, sling bags, and tote bags to maximize cabin space while adhering to airline size requirements.
4. Consider a fare upgrade. Many major carriers charge for carry-ons on basic-economy fares, so upgrading to a higher-tier ticket may include a baggage allowance. This could potentially give you better value for your money, as well as additional benefits such as the ability to choose a seat or make flight changes.
5. Add bags early. Waiting to add your bags can end up being a more expensive option. The best practice is to add your bags upon booking your flight as this can save you money in the long run.
6. Buy a luggage scale and lightweight bags. Invest in a luggage scale to avoid the surprise of exceeding the weight limit on checked bags. Additionally, purchasing ultralight luggage can help reduce the overall weight of your bags, potentially saving you money on fees due to exceeding weight limits.
7. Get a credit card or join a frequent flier program. Many credit cards offer free checked bags as a perk, especially airline-branded cards. Joining an airline’s frequent flier program may also come with perks such as free or extra baggage.
With these strategies and tips, you can make smart decisions about your baggage to save money and make your travel experience more affordable. Happy travels!
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