Not too long ago, there was no such a thing as having to pay to check your luggage at the airport. It was a free feature of airlines, like the meal you get (on long flights), or the bag of peanuts (also a thing of the past).
What’s next, are they going to make the aircraft lavatory coin operated?
In the early 2000’s, all the complimentary perks slowly went away for nearly all airlines. Many airlines faced financial challenges and began tacking on fees in different ways to increase their overall profits. So if you’re like me and frustrated with having to pay to check your luggage (and can remember that it wasn’t always so), then you may be happy to learn that there are some airlines that still honor the free checked bag.
And let me tell you this: This fee is nothing to sneeze at, it can easily add $100 to the overall price of each airfare, if not more because the checked bag fees applies to EACH way (it’s not roundtrip). Each airline and location is different when it comes to checked bag fees. And sometimes there’s a larger fee if you check your bag at the airport, verses pay months in advance.
Thankfully, there are still several ways to get no checked baggage fees, even for economy class. So buckle up, we’ll get you out of here in no time. Keep in mind that rules may change faster than your flight’s departure time, so please double check the luggage policies and prices for yourself before embarking on your incredible adventure.
While we are talking about luggage, this is probably the cutest luggage set I’ve ever seen. This 2 piece vintage inspired 20-inch carry-on and cosmetic train case would fit very nicely in an overhead cabin.
Which airlines have free checked bags for economy class?
Here is a break-down of which airlines I could find that offer FREE checked luggage for regular economy fliers. I am also including information on carry-on luggage, because I know you want to know! Please be sure to double check as these policies can change, and do your research before you board.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest is a popular low-cost carrier that primarily serves domestic destinations within the United States. It operates flights to major cities and vacation hotspots, offering affordable fares and a no-frills travel experience. I do like how laid back Southwest is, and I like even more that they have free checked bags as a normal, no frills feature. Which is awesome!
- 2 free checked bags for every customer (within 62 total inches, L+W+H)
- 1 carry-on bag (24 x 16 x 10 inches)
- 1 personal item (13.5 x 16.25 x 8 inches)
- Each checked luggage after that are $75 each
American Airlines
As one of the largest airlines globally, American Airlines serves a wide range of domestic and international destinations. It has a strong presence in the United States, offering flights to major cities and popular vacation spots.
- 1 free checked bag when traveling to these destinations: Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Qatar, South Korea.
- 1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches)
- 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches)
- Check bag fees range from $30 and up each way.
British Airways
British Airways is the flag carrier of the United Kingdom and one of the largest airlines in Europe. It provides flights to numerous global destinations, including cities in Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
- 1 hand bag (16 x 12 x 6in)
- 1 cabin bag (22 x 18 x 10in)
- 1 checked bag (Economy with checked bag only)
Lufthansa
Lufthansa is a renowned German airline and one of the leading carriers in Europe. It operates flights to a wide range of domestic and international destinations, including major cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
- Economy class gets 1 free checked bag up to 23 kg
- 1 carry-on baggage up to 8 kg
- 1 small item of baggage (ie. handbag, laptop)
Qantas Airways
Qantas is the flag carrier of Australia and operates flights to various domestic and international destinations. It connects travelers to major cities in Australia, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
- Economy class gets 1 free checked bag up to 32 kg (70 lbs)
- 1 carry-on bag 22 x 9 x 14 inches
- 1 small personal item
Travel in style with this very hard to miss red vintage inspired, hard side spinner luggage set.
Free checked baggage exceptions for credit card / rewards members (and carry-on info)
American Airlines
As one of the largest airlines globally, American Airlines serves a wide range of domestic and international destinations. It has a strong presence in the United States, offering flights to major cities and popular vacation spots.
- Eligible AAdvantage® Aviator® and Citi® / AAdvantage® cardmembers (on domestic American Airlines operated itineraries) receive 1 free bag.
- AAdvantage Gold®
- oneworld® Ruby receive 1 free bag.
Delta Air Lines
Delta is a major American airline known for its extensive domestic and international network. It operates flights to various destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America.
- Delta SkyMiles® American Express Card members gold and up receive 1 free bag.
- Medallion Status members may check up to 3 free bags.
- Active Military
Hawaiian Airlines
As the largest airline based in Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines offers flights not only within the Hawaiian Islands but also to destinations in the United States mainland, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. It is a popular choice for travelers heading to or from Hawaii.
- Pualani Platinum members receive the first three (3) bags complimentary. Applies to members only.
- Pualani Gold members receive the first two (2) bags complimentary. Applies to members only.
- Hawaiian Airlines World Elite MasterCard:The Primary Cardmember is eligible to earn two (2) complimentary checked bags on Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights. International flights are excluded.
- Elite Members and Premier Club Members who are also the primary cardholder of the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite MasterCard, will receive two (2) complimentary checked bags in addition to their membership baggage allowance when purchasing Domestic or Neighbor Island tickets directly from Hawaiian Airlines using their Hawaiian Airlines World Elite MasterCard.
Don’t struggle to spot your own luggage with this colorful Nicole Miller carry-on-suitcase. Things shift in the plane, don’t lose sight of your bag.
United Airlines
United Airlines is a prominent carrier in the United States, with an extensive network of domestic and international routes. It connects travelers to key destinations in North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. However, their baggage policy is not the best. You have to be a rewards member or credit card member to get a free checked bag, or a member of the military.
- MileagePlus Premier members can get 1-3 free bags.
- Military gets 3-5 free bags.
- 1 carry-on bag (9 in x 14 in x 22 inches)
- 1 personal item (9 in x 10 in x 17 in)
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways is known for its focus on customer service and affordable fares. It operates primarily in the United States, offering flights to cities such as New York, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, and Los Angeles, as well as select international destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America.
- Blue Plus, Mint, Mosaic, and JetBlue Plus Cardmembers can enjoy 1 free bag.
- 1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches)
- 1 personal item (17 x 13 x 8 inches)
If you are traveling with little ones, this ridable carry-on luggage is great for easily tired legs.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines serves primarily West Coast destinations, including cities in California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska itself. It also offers flights to select cities in Hawaii, Mexico, and Costa Rica, making it a popular choice for travelers to those regions.
- 1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches)
- 1 personal item
- First checked bag is $30
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier that focuses on domestic flights within the United States. It serves many major cities and popular destinations across the country, offering affordable options for travelers looking to save on airfare. This airline does not offer free carry-on bags. You are only allowed 1 personal item.
- 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches)
- 1 carry-on bag is about $49
- 1st checked bag is around $69 but can be much higher if you wait to pay until the day of the flight.
Frontier Airlines
Another low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines operates flights to various destinations in the United States, Mexico, Canada, and the Dominican Republic. It is known for its budget-friendly fares and often serves smaller or secondary airports.
- 1 free person item 14″H X 18″W X 8″D
- 1 carry on item 24″H X 16″W X 10″D costs $15 if booked from 21 days to 179 days before travel, before that it’s free. After that it’s $50.
- Checked bags fees vary by flight.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air specializes in leisure travel, serving smaller markets and focusing on non-stop flights to vacation destinations. It connects passengers to various cities across the United States, including popular tourist spots like Las Vegas, Orlando, and Myrtle Beach.
- 1 free personal item 8 in. x 14 in. x 18 in.
- 1 carry-on bag 10 in. x 16 in. x 22 in. costs $10-$75
- Up to 4 checked bags, fees very by flight.
British Airways
British Airways is the flag carrier of the United Kingdom and one of the largest airlines in Europe. It provides flights to numerous global destinations, including cities in Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
- 1 free bag for Economy with checked bag
- 2 free bags for Premium economy and Business
- 3 free bags for First
- Gold and Silver Executive Club members, and oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members, may be entitled to more checked baggage.
Air Canada
Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, offering domestic and international flights to destinations across the globe. It serves cities in Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and more.
- 1 free standard article (21.5 x 9 x 15 inches)
- 1 free personal article (13 x 6 x 17 inches)
- Fees for checked baggage depend on where you’re going.
- Latitude and Flex and Comfort fares offer free bags.
Lufthansa
Lufthansa is a renowned German airline and one of the leading carriers in Europe. It operates flights to a wide range of domestic and international destinations, including major cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
- Business class 2 free bags up to 32 kg
- First class up to 3 bags 32 kg
Qantas Airways
Qantas is the flag carrier of Australia and operates flights to various domestic and international destinations. It connects travelers to major cities in Australia, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
- Premium economy and Business gets 2 free bags
- First class gets 3 free bags
- Qantas club members, silver and gold get 3 free bags
- Platinum and Platinum One Qantas Frequent Flyers get 3-4 free bags
Navigating baggage fees can be a crucial aspect of travel planning, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. Remember, it’s always recommended to double-check the specific baggage details on the official websites of the airlines before your trip, as policies may vary and could be subject to change. By being well-informed about the baggage allowances, fees, and restrictions of your chosen airline, you can pack smartly and avoid any surprises at the airport. So, pack your bags, plan your adventure, and enjoy your travels with the peace of mind that comes from knowing the baggage policies of your preferred airline carrier. Bon voyage!
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