How to budget for luggage fees

Are you tired of unexpected luggage fees while traveling? Baggage fees can quickly become expensive, particularly if you have multiple bags or a family. These fees can turn a good deal into a costly problem.

But don't worry! There are ways to plan for luggage fees and avoid these surprises. Let's explore airline baggage fees, understand the costs of checking a bag, and learn strategies to reduce these fees. Whether you're flying with Southwest, Delta, or another major airline, we have tips to help you save money on luggage fees.

Say goodbye to surprises on your next trip - let's begin!

Researching Airline Baggage Fees

Comparing Major US Airlines

When comparing baggage fees among major US airlines, travelers will notice significant variations. Some airlines, like Southwest, offer two free checked bags. Others charge fees ranging from $30 to $35 for the first checked bag alone.

Additionally, airlines like American and Delta offer free checked bags on international flights or to elite status members. It's essential to consider each airline's unique policy.

For carry-on bag fees, basic economy fares often don't allow free carry-on bags, prompting passengers to consider upgrading their fare class for baggage allowances.

Understanding these differences in baggage policies and exploring options such as airline credit cards or earning elite status can help travelers navigate baggage fees while planning their travel.

Checking Baggage Policies Online

Travelers can easily check baggage policies online for different airlines. They should visit the airlines' websites and look for the section on baggage allowance. This section gives detailed information on the number of bags allowed, weight limits, and associated fees.

Online resources also offer airline-specific baggage guides. These guides summarize baggage fees, making it easy for travelers to compare costs. Checking baggage policies online is an important step in budgeting for luggage fees before booking a flight.

To determine baggage fees for checked and carry-on bags, travelers can use airline baggage calculators available online. These calculators break down fees based on flight and luggage details. They help travelers anticipate the costs of bringing checked or carry-on luggage.

Some airlines offer the option to pay for luggage during the reservation process, providing the lowest prices for checked bags. Knowing fees for checked and carry-on bags in advance helps travelers plan and budget for their upcoming trips.

Understanding Different Types of Fees

Checked Bag Fees vs. Carry-On Bag Fees

Checked bag fees and carry-on bag fees vary between airlines and can significantly impact the cost of travel.

Some airlines provide free checked bags, while others charge fees that range from $30 to $99 for the first checked bag.

Carry-on bag fees are mostly found in low-cost carriers and may be cheaper or more expensive than checked bag fees, depending on the airline.

Travelers should carefully review their airline's policy and their travel plans to figure out the most cost-effective option for their luggage.

Certain airlines offer complimentary checked bags as a perk for having a co-branded credit card or earning elite status, leading to substantial savings on baggage fees.

Understanding baggage policies and planning ahead can help travelers avoid unexpected costs and make informed decisions when budgeting for luggage fees.

Additional Fees for Overweight Baggage

When traveling with overweight baggage, there are extra fees to consider. Airlines charge a set fee for exceeding weight limits and an additional fee for each extra pound.

To avoid these charges:

• Carefully pack and weigh bags before going to the airport.
• Some airlines offer cobranded credit cards with a free checked bag benefit.
• Elite status with an airline can waive checked bag fees, making travel more affordable and seamless.

Understanding airline baggage policies and using airline credit card benefits can help travelers manage baggage fees and have a smoother journey.

Tips for Avoiding Baggage Fees

Traveling Light with a Carry-On Bag

Travelers can effectively pack light in a carry-on bag for their trip by carefully selecting versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched easily.

Additionally, rolling clothes instead of folding can save space and prevent wrinkles. Toiletries should be limited to the essentials and placed in travel-sized containers. Using packing cubes can help maximize space and keep items organized. It's advisable to wear bulky items, such as jackets or boots, on the flight to free up space in the carry-on bag. Travelers should also be aware of the airline's policy on carry-on luggage dimensions and weight limits to avoid any issues.

When traveling with a carry-on bag, some tips and tricks to avoid baggage fees include choosing airlines that offer a free checked bag with specific credit cards or elite status, utilizing cobranded airline credit cards that waive checked bag fees, considering airline policies and restrictions before booking, and planning ahead by paying for checked bags during the initial reservation process to avoid higher fees at the airport. Gate-checking a bag can be a cost-effective option in certain situations, and being mindful of basic economy fares that may not include a free carry-on bag is essential.

Additionally, weighing luggage before heading to the airport can help travelers avoid overweight baggage fees.

Utilizing Credit Card Benefits

Credit cards offer additional benefits for travelers:

• Free checked bags
• Priority boarding
• Airline fee credits

Travelers can maximize these benefits by choosing airline credit cards that waive checked bag fees for the cardholder and sometimes companions on the same reservation. By using their credit cards to pay for travel expenses, travelers can earn airline miles for free flights or upgrades. Elite status with airlines can be obtained through credit card spending, providing perks like complimentary checked bags. Some credit cards also offer annual travel credits to offset baggage fees.

To make the most of these benefits:

• Review your credit card's rewards program
• Understand airline partnerships
• Take full advantage of the perks available.

Earning and Redeeming Airline Miles

Travelers can earn airline miles in various ways:

• Using airline credit cards for everyday purchases
• Flying frequently with a specific airline
• Staying at partner hotels
• Participating in bonus mile promotions

These miles are valuable and can be redeemed for:

• Flights
• Upgrades
• Hotels
• Rental cars
• Other travel-related expenses

Accumulating miles offers benefits like:

• Free checked bags
• Priority boarding
• Lounge access

To make the most of these miles, travelers should:

• Plan ahead
• Book flights during off-peak times
• Take advantage of mileage sales and promotions
• Consider alternative routes or airlines
• Be flexible with travel dates and destinations

It's also important to:

• Know blackout dates
• Be aware of restrictions and fees
• Ensure a smooth redemption process, maximizing the value of earned miles.

Strategies for Minimizing Costs

Signing Up for Airline Loyalty Programs

When signing up for an airline loyalty program, travelers typically provide their personal information like name, contact details, and maybe their frequent flyer number.

Additional details like travel preferences or credit card info for earning miles may also be included.

Joining an airline loyalty program is usually free. Travelers can sign up without any costs. However, to make the most of the program, travelers may need to fly with a specific airline to earn points or miles.

Benefits of signing up include earning miles for every flight, redeemable for free flights, upgrades, or other perks. Members may also access exclusive offers, priority boarding, free checked bags, and rewards based on their elite status.

Using Bilt Rewards for Visa Cardholders

Visa cardholders can save on airline baggage fees with Bilt Rewards. By earning points and using them strategically, travelers can offset the cost of checked bags.

One benefit is earning points through everyday spending and travel-related purchases like airline tickets.

These points can be redeemed for free checked bags or baggage fee discounts.

Travelers with elite status or airline credit cards linked to Bilt Rewards may get perks like waived baggage fees.

Understanding airline policies, using cobranded credit cards, and considering baggage weight limits can help maximize the value of Bilt Rewards for Visa cardholders.

Taking Advantage of Alaska Airlines' Baggage Policies

Travelers can save on fees by flying with airlines that offer a free checked bag benefit through their cobranded credit cards.

By signing up for an airline credit card like the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card, passengers can receive a free checked bag for themselves and up to six companions on the same reservation.

Earning elite status with Alaska Airlines' frequent flyer program can provide benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and automatic upgrades.

Travelers should be wary of basic economy fares as they may not include a free checked bag. They should consider upgrading to higher class tickets that include a baggage allowance to avoid additional fees.

Understanding size and weight limitations for carry-on and checked bags, using a baggage calculator, and planning ahead can help passengers maximize their luggage allowance and minimize fees.

Checking Alaska Airlines' specific baggage policies and any restrictions on oversized or overweight bags is crucial to avoid surprises at the airport.

Weighing Your Bags and Knowing the Rules

Investing in a Baggage Scale

Investing in a baggage scale is a smart choice for travelers. A portable and lightweight scale makes it easy to weigh luggage before heading to the airport. This helps in avoiding extra fees for overweight bags, ensuring bags comply with airline weight limits. By being proactive, travelers can save money and stress, avoiding costly last-minute repacking and charges. Having a baggage scale is especially useful for frequent flyers or military personnel following strict baggage rules.

It's a practical and affordable way to manage luggage weight and steer clear of unnecessary expenses like checked bag fees.

Understanding Gate Check and Curbside Check-In

Gate check and curbside check-in are two convenient ways to handle luggage before a flight. Understanding the differences can help travelers save money on baggage fees. Knowing the process can also help avoid unnecessary charges, especially with airlines that charge for checked bags. Travelers can plan ahead to save money by using free checked bag benefits from certain credit cards or elite status memberships.

This knowledge empowers travelers to navigate baggage policies effectively and make the most of their travel budget.

The Bottom Line on Budgeting for Luggage Fees

When budgeting for luggage fees, travelers should think about:

• The airline they are flying with
• Their travel plans
• The type of fare they bought

Consider factors like:

• Number of checked bags
• Weight limits
• Whether carry-ons are included

To reduce costs, travelers can:

• Evaluate benefits of elite status
• Use airline credit cards for free checked bags

Be informed about:

• Baggage policies
• Size restrictions for carry-on luggage
• Availability of baggage calculators

Try alternative strategies like:

• Gate-checking luggage
• Using personal items effectively

Planning ahead and understanding airline policies is key to managing luggage fees smartly.

FAQ

How can I find out what the luggage fees are for my airline?

Visit the airline's official website or call their customer service to find out the specific luggage fees for your flight. You can also check your booking confirmation or airline's email for any information regarding baggage fees.

What are some ways to avoid paying excess luggage fees?

To avoid paying excess luggage fees, pack light, weigh your luggage before heading to the airport, and consider shipping items ahead of time. Another option is to sign up for an airline credit card that offers free checked bags as a perk.

Is it better to pay for luggage fees in advance or at the airport?

It is generally better to pay for luggage fees in advance to save money and avoid potential higher fees at the airport. For example, airlines like Southwest and Delta offer discounted rates for prepaid baggage compared to fees paid at the airport.

Are there any credit cards that offer benefits for luggage fees?

Yes, some credit cards offer benefits for luggage fees. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card provides reimbursement for up to $100 per day for baggage fees and other incidental airline costs.

What items are typically included in the standard luggage allowance?

The standard luggage allowance typically includes items like clothes, shoes, toiletries, and electronics. Additional items can vary depending on the airline and ticket type.