Several airlines have increased their checked baggage fees in recent months, and Delta Air Lines and American Airlines are among the airlines that have increased their prices recently. Checking a bag on Delta now costs $35 instead of $30, and a second bag costs $45 instead of $40. American Airlines charges $35 if you check your bag and pay online, or $40 if you wait until you arrive at the airport.
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United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Southwest Airlines allow you to check in two checked bags, plus one carry-on and one personal item for free. But if you can't fit all your belongings into that much baggage, these airlines will charge you a hefty $125 fee for an extra checked bag, according to Gazette.com.
Luckily, there are ways to save on not just checked baggage but the entire cost of your trip to keep your dream vacation within your budget.
1. Join an airline loyalty program
Delta offers one free checked bag for all levels of Medallion membership, starting with Silver status. Gold members receive two free checked bags up to 70 pounds each for flights within the United States and Canada, and up to 50 pounds each for round-trips to international destinations. Platinum and Diamond members receive up to three checked bags free of charge.
Please check each airline's website before you fly to find out what benefits you receive as a loyalty member.
2. Fly business class or first class
Similarly, Delta Air Lines offers Premium and First Class customers three free checked bags. However, you may end up paying more for a premium or first class ticket, so it's best to do the math before booking your flight. You may save money by paying checked baggage fees or organizing your baggage to avoid fees rather than buying a first class ticket.
However, upgrading from economy also provides other benefits, such as more legroom.
3. Use the correct credit card
Many airlines have co-branded credit cards that offer additional perks and perks, such as free checked baggage. You can find some of the best travel credit cards here, according to GOBankingRates.
4. Weigh yourself before you leave
In addition to limiting the number of checked bags, many airlines also have weight limits. Exceeding the limit may result in additional charges or your package being refused.
Only if you are using carry-on baggage, measure your baggage to ensure it meets the airline's size requirements. Otherwise, you may have to pay to check your baggage.
Similarly, invest in a luggage scale like this one from Amazon to make sure your bag meets the checked baggage weight limit. This $7 investment will pay for itself once you avoid overweight fees the first time.
5. Use compression packing cubes
Compression packing cubes allow you to pack more into a small suitcase that fits on an overhead shelf. Also, he can put his clothes in one bag instead of two, avoiding baggage fees.
Be sure to measure the weight of your luggage. By packing strategically with packing cubes, you can fit more into your bag than you ever imagined. As a side benefit, your clothes will be better organized and easier to find when you arrive at your destination.
6. Pack items that do double duty.
By planning your packing carefully, you can get more done with less and reduce the amount of luggage you carry. Pack neutral colors and mix-and-match items to create a variety of looks with minimal pieces. Try to pack only one pair of shoes.
7. Leave the hair dryer at home
Most hotels have hair dryers, and many also have irons. It's usually safe to leave these items at home, freeing up valuable space in your suitcase.
8. Laundry at destination
If you plan on doing laundry at least once during your trip, you can pack less. Find out if your hotel has a laundry room by calling them or checking online reviews. Otherwise, you can also use a local laundromat.
9. Compare final ticket prices including all additional costs
When purchasing tickets, consider additional costs and fees, as well as the discounts and benefits you receive as a frequent flyer. If you need to check baggage, a low-cost ticket with a high baggage fee may not be a good deal.
last note
When it comes to travel, checked bag fees aren't the issue. You can find many ways to get around it. In an article on APNews.com, Delta Air Lines said it increased prices to “response to unspecified industry cost increases.”
Read more: 8 tips for flying business class on economy fares
Meanwhile, fare prices are expected to fall in 2024, according to data from online booking engines Going.com and Travel + Leisure.
GOBankingRates Details
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 9 loopholes to save money on travel as American, United and Delta raise checked baggage fees
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
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