Airline Baggage Fees Are Up—How Much Will You Pay This Summer?

In times of global conflict, uncertainty about fuel supplies pushes energy costs higher—meaning consumers pay more at the pump and in the air. As jet fuel prices rise, travelers feel the impact through higher fares, reduced routes, and supplemental fees. Airlines often turn to baggage fees to protect their bottom line. This scenario is playing out again now, as major carriers have introduced higher fees for checked bags on domestic and short-haul international flights.

2026 baggage fee snapshot by major airline

The below fees apply for new flight bookings.

Alaska Airlines

Effective April 10, Alaska Airlines charges $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second, with a third bag costing $200. The airline no longer offers discounted pricing for prepaid luggage. Visit Alaska Airlines’ services and fees page for more information.

American Airlines

As of April 9, American Airlines charges $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second if they are added to the reservation and prepaid. At the airport, fees increase to $50 and $60, respectively. A third checked bag costs $200. These fees also apply to Basic Economy tickets issued on or after May 18. See American Airlines’ baggage policies for more details.

Delta Air Lines

Delta charges $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second, reflecting a $10 fee increase. A third checked bag costs $200. Visit Delta’s Baggage & Travel Fees page for a complete breakdown of costs.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines, owned by Alaska Airlines, has increased checked baggage fees to $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second, and $200 for the third for North American routes. Intra-island and international flights are not affected.

JetBlue Airways

For off-peak travel periods, JetBlue charges $49 for the first checked bag and $59 for the second bag if luggage is added to the reservation more than 24 hours before departure. Peak travel periods incur $49 and $69 fees for the first and second bag, respectively. Baggage fees go up by $10 if you add them to your reservation within 24 hours of departure. The third checked bag is $200. Visit JetBlue’s baggage policy page to understand how rates vary by destination and travel dates.

Southwest Airlines

Less than a year after ending its free checked luggage policy, Southwest has increased its baggage fees. As of April 9, Southwest Airlines charges $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second. A third checked bag costs $150. Visit Southwest’s Optional Travel Charges page for a complete rundown of pricing.

United Airlines

Effective April 3, United Airlines charges $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second if prepaid, or $50 and $60 at the airport. A third checked bag costs $200. For Basic Economy fares, the fee is $50 at airport check-in. If you arrive at the gate with a carry-on that can’t fit under the seat, you’ll be required to pay a $75 fee to check it. For more information, visit United’s baggage policy page.

How to avoid or reduce baggage fees

Pack less

Of course, the easiest way to save on checked luggage is to travel with a carry-on bag and personal item only, which remain free on most airlines. Consider an expandable or larger carry-on bag such as the Cambria Hardside Carry-On Expandable Spinner or Avalon Softside Carry-On Expandable Spinner, and maximize space in your luggage with compression-style packing cubes. Also consider a capsule wardrobe with mix-and-match items in neutral colors.

Wear bulky items on the plane

Wear your jacket and boots or sneakers on the plane to save precious space in your luggage. You can always change once you arrive at your destination.

Pay ahead of time

Some airlines, such as American and United, charge less if you prepay for your checked luggage in advance of your trip.

Consider an airline credit card

Many airline credit cards include free checked luggage for you and others on your reservation.

Ship items to your destination

If you have Amazon Prime or another subscription service with free shipping, use it to ship bulky items to your hotel or vacation rental.

Weigh your luggage

Purchase a basic luggage scale, and weigh your bags before you leave the house; this will prevent you from incurring overweight luggage fees. These compact scales are easy to pack, so you can use them again before your return trip.

Carry-on rules and basic economy limits

The standard size of carry-on luggage is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles (or roughly 40 to 45 linear inches in total). Policies vary by airline, so check the rules before you travel. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a handbag or backpack) at no extra cost, but basic economy fares often come with stricter limits.

 

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