Airline Baggage Fees: How to Compare the Real Air Fare
Airlines price bags separately from seats on many fares, and the rules differ by carrier, fare level and route. A cheap-looking ticket can cost more than a pricier one once you add the bags you need.
The pieces to check
- Personal item: usually free, but with size limits, and the smallest fares sometimes allow only this.
- Carry-on bag: included on many fares but not all, and some airlines charge for it on their lowest fare level.
- First and second checked bags: often charged per bag and per direction, with different prices for the first and second bag.
- Weight and size limits: overweight and oversize fees can be larger than the base fee.
- Sports gear and special items: skis, golf clubs and musical instruments have their own rules.
Why fares that look similar differ
The lowest fare level, often called basic economy or a similar name, can exclude seat selection, changes and sometimes a full-size carry-on. The next level up may include them. Price the whole trip, not the headline fare.
A quick way to compare
- Write down how many bags each person needs, each way.
- Ask for the total price with those bags on each airline.
- Add any seat fees you would pay to sit together.
- Compare the totals, not the base fares.
Travelers with special allowances
Some airlines give extra baggage allowances for members of the military or for loyalty program members, and some co-branded credit cards include a free bag. Ask a specialist or check the airline's website, as these benefits change.
Fees change often, so always confirm the current amount on the airline's own site or with an agent before you buy. Our guide to taxes and fees covers the other costs inside a ticket price.