Baggage Fees on the Rise: Affects Everyone!

Baggage Fees Are Climbing

It’s frustrating, but American Airlines has just announced an increase in checked baggage fees, now nearly on par with other major airlines in the U.S. This decision comes amid a resurgence in fuel costs, leaving airlines reluctant to absorb the expenses themselves.

New Costs for Baggage

From now on, domestic passengers—including those flying to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and some short international destinations—will need to pay $50 for their first suitcase and $60 for the second. Planning to bring a third bag? Be ready to cough up $200! Those who book online or through the American Airlines app will receive a $5 discount, which feels more like a reward for helping them cut airport staff costs rather than a genuine incentive.

Remember when $20 for luggage was already a pain point? Now, packing clothes or a bottle of wine will cost you $50 each way! It’s truly outrageous, especially since airfare has been on the rise since the pandemic, with no improvements in service or seat spacing! Basic Economy ticket holders are hit even harder—starting May 18, the first checked bag fee will jump to $55, and the second to $65. However, like with main cabin tickets, passengers can still unlock that $5 discount by paying in advance.

Other Airlines Following Suit

If this sounds familiar, it's because American Airlines was the last major U.S. carrier to raise baggage fees. JetBlue kicked things off at the end of March, just days after the “non-war” in Iran began. With soaring fuel prices, airlines are scrambling to boost their revenues.

Not long after, United joined in on April 3, Delta on April 8, and this week, both Southwest and Alaska jumped on the bandwagon. Now, American, Delta, and United have nearly identical baggage fees (including pre-payment discounts). Notably, Alaska has removed its pre-payment discount with the new fees effective April 10.

Baggage Fees Across Airlines

Current baggage fees by airline:

• Alaska: $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second
• American: $50 for the first bag, $60 for the second
• Delta: $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second
• JetBlue: $49 for the first bag, $69 for the second
• Southwest: $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second
• United: $50 for the first bag, $60 for the second

Reasons Behind the Fee Increase

Just back in May 2025, Southwest began charging for checked baggage. Now, less than a year later, prices have already surged. It’s quite absurd. The primary reason lies in fuel prices. Airlines are budgeting fuel costs for 2026 at around $2.50–$2.70 per gallon. However, global prices skyrocketed from about $96 per barrel in late February to nearly $197 per barrel by the end of March. As of April 9, the U.S. Jet Fuel Index reached $4.25 per gallon—a massive shift that has disrupted cost predictions across the industry.

While many European and Asian airlines have opted for temporary fuel surcharges (a more transparent yet unpopular approach), American airlines predominantly choose to quietly increase fees instead. Delta has also announced plans to cut some unprofitable flights, particularly overnight and irregular services, indicating that baggage fees alone won't offset this price hike.

Conclusion

In summary, the era of “unbundled air travel” continues, and your suitcase is bearing the cost of that reality.