Major U.S. airlines have started charging at least $5 more for checked bags since the beginning of 2024. This increase was to help offset rising costs and also help generate more revenue. Consequently, these price changes can alter which is your best flight option and require more research time. Below are the current fees and corresponding changes (listed alphabetically).
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MAY 27: Passengers retrieve luggage from a baggage carousel after arriving at Midway Airport on a Southwest Airlines flight on May 27, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. Beginning tomorrow, Southwest Airlines will begin to charge most passengers $35 for their first checked bag and $45 for their second, ending its longstanding free checked bag policy. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
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Alaska Airlines
On January 2, 2025, Alaska Airlines upped its first and second checked bag fees to $35 and $45, respectively. The rate is the same whether you pay the fee online or at the airport.
You previously paid $30 (first bag) and $40 (second bag).
American Airlines
In November 2024, American Airlines increased its first checked bag fee by $5 for domestic basic economy and main cabin flights within the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
You now pay $35 when paying the fee online or $40 at the airport. Second bags now cost a flat $45 for most routes in either bottom-tier ticket class.
Delta Air Lines
Delta increased its first and second checked bag fees in March 2024 by $5. You now pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag on domestic flights.
These fees apply to the Delta Main Basic, Delta Main, and Delta Comfort fare classes.
JetBlue
In April 2024, JetBlue pivoted to multi-tiered pricing. In addition to being a first or subsequent checked bag, your fee also depends on whether it’s peak or non-peak season, and how close to check-in you pay your fee.
Blue, Blue Basic, and Blue Plus pay the following fees:
More Than 24 Hours Before Departure (Off-Peak):
- 1st Bag: $35
- 2nd Bag: $50
Within 24 Hours of Departure (Off-Peak):
- 1st Bag: $45
- 2nd Bag: $60
More Than 24 Hours Before Departure (Peak):
Within 24 Hours of Departure (Peak):
- 1st Bag: $50
- 2nd Bag: $70
Prices include a $10 savings per bag when you pay your domestic itinerary fees at least 24 hours before departure. The savings discount is $5 per bag for transatlantic flights.
These fee increases are approximately $10 above the previous base rate.
United Airlines
United Airlines increased its checked bag fee by $5 in most markets for departures on or after February 24, 2024. Prepaying for your suitcases at least 24 hours before takeoff saves money.
Domestic flights have the accompanying baggage charges:
- 1st bag: $40 (standard) or $35 (prepaid)
- 2nd bag: $50 (standard) or $45 (prepaid)
Southwest Airlines
Shocking most flyers and discount airline enthusiasts, Southwest Airlines ditched its long-time two-bag-fly-for-free policy.
Since May 28, 2025, most fares incur the following fees:
One personal item and a carry-on bag are still complimentary with all fare classes.
You automatically avoid both fees by purchasing the top-tier Business Select® Fare or by being a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Member. A-List members and Rapid Rewards credit card customers can waive the first checked bag fee.
How to Avoid Checked Baggage Fees
The precise fee waivers differ by airline, although everyday travel hacks include:
- Purchase a premium cabin fare (i.e., business or first class)
- Qualify for airline elite status
- Have a co-branded credit card (that charges an annual fee)
- Be an active military member
- Avoid basic economy on international flights
Moreover, due to strict European Union carry-on standards, U.S.-based airlines may also be tightening the maximum allowable carry-on dimensions to select destinations.
Final Thoughts
These are the first major fee changes since 2018 when the legacy airlines last increased their baggage fees. Be sure to check the latest fee schedules and luggage policies to avoid any surprises at airport check-in. Most airlines have a baggage fee calculator to estimate your costs for domestic and international flights before booking a flight.
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