Airline Checked Bag Fees, Oversized Baggage Fees, and More

Airlines up the fees for checked bags for both USA & international travel. This past week or so we have seen a new virus take off in the airline industry called the baggage flu.

We have seen airlines such as Virgin America, Delta Airlines, Northwest Airlines, and US Airways increase their first and second checked bag fees.

US Airways and Sprit Airlines take the honors of the highest second bag checked fee. For example, if you are checking two bags at check in, and you did not pre pay, you will pay $120 roundtrip. Worse yet, pay for it at curbside and you get dinged for another 2 bucks per bag or $128 roundtrip for two bags.

The cost of travel is no longer the cost of the airline ticket, but all the extra a-la-cart you may have to pay for such as $150 change fee, $120 to check two bags, drink fee, headphone fee and more.

Don't' you dare check three bags, or a bag over 50 lbs because if you do you will have to refinance your home just to cover the cost.

A special note for a California surfing beach bum who wants to take their surfboard to the Spanish coast or another European destination. Fly on Delta and they will charge you $300 each way or $600 roundtrip for bringing your board along. Our suggestion is to keep the board at home and take your favorite beach towel blanket instead.

To see what the major airlines are charging for other fees including making reservations by phone, priority seating and meals/drinks, please click here.

Passengers who purchase full fare unrestricted coach, business class or first class tickets can check two or three bags for free and sometimes they can weigh up to 70 lbs. without a charge. Military passengers flying on active duty orders may also check two bags for free and may not have to adhere to weight and size requirements.

If you are an elite member of a frequent flyer program on one of the major airlines, you may still be able to check two bags for free on that carrier. Some airlines also allow passengers who are listed under the same reservation as an elite member to check up to two bags for free. Be sure to check the contract of carriage for your airline to see their policies. It's always best to contact your airline or check the contract of carriage on their website for any last-minute changes.

We are finding that the biggest fees come from the 3rd or more checked bag that is overweight and oversize. Some airlines will charge you all three fees if your baggage does not meet their requirements. Please note that fees and policies are subject to change at any time. We recommend that you check with your carrier prior to travel to calculate the fees and to measure, and weigh your luggage so there are no surprises upon checking in.

DOMESTIC ONLY TRAVEL!

We suggest that you check with the airlines website directly for international travel as some destinations have certain size, weight, and number of pieces embargoes that do not fall under these general guidelines. Remember these are just general guidelines you will want to get the most up to date information from the airline before checking in.