Airline Baggage Policy 2025: What is the Fee for Checking a Bag

Getting affordable flight tickets but stuck with Baggage fees can differ significantly, and there's nothing worse than being hit by surprise costs after the fact. So, how much does it cost to check a bag?

Let's delve into the intricacies of the airline baggage policies of major domestic airlines. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the vital information about luggage size, weight, and charges, along with other essential details you must know while traveling. With this knowledge, you can plan your trip without any last-minute surprises.

Understanding: What is Airlines Baggage Policy 2025?

Picture this: You're all set for your dream vacation, tickets booked, itinerary planned... but then comes the not-so-dreamy part: figuring out what you can pack. That's where the airline's secret code, baggage allowance, comes in. It's the airline's way of telling you how much luggage you can bring for free, both on the plane with you (carry-on) and in the cargo hold (checked bags). Let's break it down to make things easier

What is Checked Luggage?

Bags you hand over at the airport counter will be stored in the airplane's cargo hold. You reclaim them at your destination's baggage claim.

What is Carry-on luggage?

The bag you bring onto the airplane cabin is stored in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front.

Weight vs. Piece Allowances: How Airlines Count Your Bags

Airlines set limits on how much luggage you can bring for free, considering:

Weight Allowance: The total weight of all your checked bags combined, regardless of how many bags you have.

Piece Allowance: The number of checked bags you can bring, each with a specific weight limit.

Fond Tip: These allowances vary depending on the airline, ticket class (economy, business, etc.), and your destination.

Here's the deal: Understanding these terms isn't just about knowing the rules; it's about packing smart and avoiding surprise baggage fees at the airport. So, let's get savvy with these terms and make your travel experience smoother!

How much should the Carry-on luggage size be?

Get all the information about carry-on luggage size restrictions from the convenient table below.

Carry on Liquids Limits

You can bring small containers of liquids onboard if they're 3.4 ounces (about 100.55 ml) or less when flying. However, it's essential to be aware of additional guidelines that apply.

For carry-on luggage,

• A simple 3-1-1 rule is 3.4 ounces per container and 1 quart-sized bag per passenger. Through the security checkpoint, you can take a quart-sized bag filled with small containers (no more than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters each) of liquids, gels, and similar substances.
• Anything more significant should be packed in checked luggage to avoid extra charges.
• A transparent, sealable bag of the right size is generally suitable for carrying your liquids through airport security.

Fond Tip: To streamline packing your carry-on liquids, start with 3.4 ounces or smaller containers and fit them into a single quart-sized bag. The total amount of liquids you can bring is limited to what fits in this bag.

Exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule include certain medical liquids and baby necessities:

Medications: The TSA permits travelers to carry mandatory medical liquids in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces, though the exact amount isn't specified. These need to be declared and shown to TSA officers at security checkpoints. Labeling your medical supplies can make this process smoother.

Baby Essentials: Formula, breast milk, and baby food are exemptfrom the carry-on liquid restrictions and don't need to fit into the quart-sized bag. You can also bring more than 3.4 ounces (about 100.55 ml) of water and juice for your infant.

Duty-Free Liquids: Liquids bought from duty-free shops during international flights can exceed the usual limits if sealed in clear, tamper-evident bags. Remember to keep the receipt accessible for TSA checks.

Other details to remember on carry-on liquids:

• Only certain flammable items like lighters and batteries are permitted in your carry-on.
• Sporting and camping gear, like air mattresses and balls, may be allowed, following airline-specific rules. However, carry-on luggage does not permit items like baseball bats and bear spray.
• Knives, firearms, and box cutters are among the prohibited items. The TSA website provides a comprehensive list.

By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can ensure a smoother experience at airport security.

What is the Fee for Checking a Bag for Different Airlines?

The luggage fees charged by many airlines can significantly increase your total flight cost. However, we provide a transparent breakdown of the airlines' starting fees (which can increase) and some additional tips to keep in mind. This transparency should give you confidence in planning your travel budget.

Spirit Baggage Fees Carry-on

• Spirit is known for its budget-friendly fares, but Spirit Airlines check-in baggage size adds extra cost.
• The fees start at $60 for the first checked bag and can increase depending on the factors.
• If you're flying Spirit and plan to check a bag, adding this cost to your travel budget is important.

Delta Baggage Fees Carry-on

• The first Delta, basic economy baggage carry-on, comes free with certain fare classes, but always check or contact Fond Travels at +1 (571) 389 6426 for your specific flight to be sure.
• Delta's checked baggage fees start at $30 for the second checked bag.
• If you know you will be checking a bag, purchasing a fare class that includes it may be cheaper. Alternatively, you can pay the fee in advance online instead of paying at the airport.

Southwest Baggage Fees Carry-on

• Southwest offers free checked bags for the first two bags on every flight (within weight limits).
• This is a significant perk for travelers who tend to check luggage.
• As the weight restrictions are strictly enforced, weigh your bags before departing for the airport to avoid excess baggage fees, which can be expensive.

Breeze Baggage Fees Carry-on

• Breeze Airways' checked baggage fees start at $30 for the third bag.
• The first two checked bags are typically free, but double-check for your specific fare class.
• Keeping your checked luggage under 40 lbs. for the first two bags will help you avoid the Breeze airline carry-on fee.

Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, and Eva Air Baggage Fees Carry-on

• These international airlines base their checked baggage fees on the route and fare class.
• The economy class allows one free checked bag up to 50 lbs., while business class allows two free checked bags with a higher weight limit.
• It's important to contact customer service for specific baggage allowances on your flight.

American Baggage Fees Carry-on

• American air-checked baggage fees on Domestic Flights (US, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands):1st checked bag: $40 (or $35 if paid online) 2nd checked bag: $45. International Flights (Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, Guyana): 1st checked bag: $35. 2nd checked bag: $45
• Fees are non-refundable and apply per person, per check-in, and each way (even with upgrades that include free checked bags).
• There are a few exceptions to the free carry-on luggage. Basic Economy fares on some international routes may not include a free carry-on bag, and oversized or overweight carry-on bags will incur fees.

Frontier Baggage Fees Carry-on

• Frontier's checked baggage fees start at $30 for the first bag.
• This airline does not offer any free checked bags.
• However, they allow carry-on luggage for a fee if it meets their size and weight restrictions.

Fond Tip: Carefully consider how much you need to pack and weigh your bags to determine if a carry-on or checked bag is more cost-effective for your trip.

United Baggage Fees Carry-on

• The first two bags are free with certain fare classes, but always check for your specific flight.
• United's checked baggage fees start at $35 for the third bag.
• Like Delta, paying checked baggage fees online in advance can be cheaper than paying at the airport.

What are the best airlines in terms of baggage fees?

Looking at the table above, Southwest is the top choice regarding airline baggage fees. Southwest permits passengers to check in their first and second bags without any cost, ensuring that no traveler must pay extra for up to two pieces of luggage. Additionally, every passenger is permitted a carry-on and a personal item at no additional charge. For those needing to check a third bag, the fee is $125, which aligns with the standard rate among various airlines.

Conversely, Spirit check-in baggage weight and Frontier rank at the bottom regarding baggage fees. Despite their lower ticket prices, it's advisable to factor in the luggage cost to assess if they offer a more economical option for your travel needs.

Tips to Save Money on Checked Baggage Fees:

• Pack light: This is the golden rule for avoiding checked baggage fees. Try to condense your belongings into a carry-on bag and a personal item. Opt for versatile clothing; you can mix and match and pack space-saving essentials.
• Book a fare class that includes checked bags: Some airlines offer fare classes that include a free checked bag or two. Consider the price difference between fare classes when making your booking.
• Pay online in advance: Many airlines offer a discount for paying checked baggage fees online compared to the airport.
• Travel with a companion: If you're traveling with someone, consider checking one bag together if it's under the weight limit for one checked bag. This can be a cost-effective way to share baggage allowance.
• Look for airline promotions: Some airlines occasionally offer free checked bags.

Winding Up- Baggage and Fee Policy

In essence, the cost of checking bags has become an inevitable aspect of flying in 2025. You can pay substantially above your ticket's initial price when factoring in baggage fees. Therefore, it's crucial to review the baggage policies carefully before being swayed by what appears to be a fantastic ticket offer.

Exploring options such as acquiring a co-branded airline credit card or achieving elite status with the airline, which often includes airline baggage fee waivers, could be beneficial. For airline-related queries, contacting Fond Travels customer care at +1 (571) 389 6426 is paramount.

FAQ’s