Checking Luggage Will Now Cost You More When Flying With These US Airlines

Everyone loves a good flight deal, but while most travelers focus on the price of airfare, separate fees for luggage can add up quickly. And those extra costs are rising. At least four major U.S. airlines have increased baggage fees ahead of the busy summer travel season, so it's important to read the fine print of your ticket, especially if you're someone who doesn't travel light. JetBlue announced an increase in baggage fees for travel on or after March 30, 2026, with United Airlines quickly following suit as of April 3. Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines weren't far behind, initiating fee increases on April 8 and April 9, respectively.

Raising additional fees, such as checked luggage, is a strategy that allows airlines to remain profitable and offset their expenses while keeping ticket prices appealing to consumers. "As we experience rising operating costs, we regularly evaluate how to manage those costs while keeping base fares competitive and continuing to invest in the experience our customers value," said JetBlue in a statement to CNBC. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), aircraft fuel and oil is the biggest cost that airlines must cover. For North American airlines, it makes up about 25.5% of their total expenses, and that percentage is even higher for airlines in other continents. The rising cost of jet fuel is a growing concern among airlines worldwide, which could be part of the reason why add-on fees have gone up. 

So, exactly how much money do you have to fork over to check a bag these days? Read on to find out which airline is charging the most, and what you can do to pay less for your bags. 

When it comes to checked baggage fees, each major U.S. airline has its own policy. JetBlue's prices vary based on the season and destination. Domestic flights, as well as those to Canada, the Caribbean, and Latin America, will run you $39 during the off-peak season, an increase of $4 from the previous fee of $35. Peak season fees have increased from $40 to $49. A second checked bag costs $59 during off-peak and $69 during peak travel times. Prices also increase if you purchase it within 24 hours of departure. 

United Airlines increased fees for the first and second checked bag by $10, with the third bag now costing an extra $50. This change affects domestic routes, as well as flights to Mexico, Canada, and parts of Latin America. This means that one checked bag will now add $50 to your total bill, $60 for a second, and a staggering $200 for a third. Delta Air Lines announced a similar fare increase of $10 for the first and second checked bag, along with an extra $50 for the third, across all domestic routes. This means the first bag is now $45, the second bag is $55, and the third is $200.

Southwest Airlines, an underrated airline that offers big seats, simple rules, and nonstop flights, has also raised fees from $35 to $45 for the first checked bag, and from $45 to $55 for a second bag. The fee for a third bag remains at $150. This is a particularly tough pill for customers to swallow, considering that prior to May 28, 2025, the airline had a longstanding Bags Fly Free policy. That being said, there are still ways for your bags to fly for less — or for free — on all four of these airlines.

Frequent fliers know there are plenty of tips and tricks for finding deals on flights, but an extra savvy traveler also knows the importance of keeping add-on fees at a minimum. One of the easiest ways to do this is to travel with a carry-on or backpack only. Airlines such as United Airlines charge extra for a carry-on bag with Basic Economy tickets, but travelers are permitted one personal item at no extra charge. But more often than not, checking a bag is necessary, and when it is, there are a few ways to get around those extra charges.

Travelers with loyalty status are often eligible for free checked bags. Members of JetBlue Mosaic, United MileagePlus Premier, Delta SkyMiles Medallion, and Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List receive a minimum of one complimentary checked bag per flight. And if you've been eyeing credit cards with airline partnerships, now might be the time to sign up, as the perks are similar. Those with JetBlue, United, Delta, and Southwest co-branded credit cards may also receive one checked bag for free, but the perks vary depending on the card and the airline's policy.  

Finally, it helps to plan ahead. Much like this pre-flight mistake that could make you lose your airplane seat, you'll want to avoid waiting until the last minute to purchase a checked bag. As we mentioned, JetBlue charges $10 extra for bags added within 24 hours of the flight. Similarly, travelers can save $5 by pre-paying for a bag on United Airlines, but this only applies to domestic and select international routes.