What’s happening:
Another major airline just raised bag fees — and it’s part of a growing travel trend that’s hitting travelers right before peak summer season.
The big picture:
Airlines are leaning harder on “extras” like baggage fees to boost revenue as costs rise — especially fuel. Thankfully, nothing (yet) on added wheelchair fees has been reported.
What we’re seeing:
- JetBlue set the tone
- Raised bag fees by $4–$9
- Expanded “peak pricing” to nearly 40% of its schedule
- United followed (April 3, 2026)
- +$10 for first and second checked bags
- Applies to domestic + short-haul international routes
- Higher fees if you don’t prepay
- Delta just joined (April 8, 2026)
- +$10 for first and second bags
- +$50 for a third checked bag on some routes
- American (not fully in — yet)
- Quietly raised second bag fee to $50 (+$5) in February
- Still penalizes travelers who don’t prepay
🔽 How to avoid (or cut) bag fees
Start here: The easiest way to beat bag fees is to plan before you book — not at the airport.
Why this matters now:
Airlines aren’t just raising prices — they’re relying more on fees to make money.
As Going.com's travel expert Katy Nastro puts it, airlines are getting “creative” with add-on fees as costs rise, and those fees are likely here to stay — even if fuel prices drop.
She also warns that travelers should expect higher overall costs this summer, not just for bags but for fares, too.
Smart ways to save:
- Prepay your bag — always
Waiting until the airport can cost $5–$10 more per bag. - Pack like you mean it
- Use a carry-on + personal item strategy
- Roll clothes instead of folding
- Wear bulkier items on the plane
- Check your credit card perks
Many airline cards include free checked bags. - Book the right ticket class
Sometimes a slightly higher fare includes a bag — and saves money overall. - Join loyalty programs
Even basic status can help reduce or eliminate bag fees. - Weigh your bag at home
Overweight fees can run $100+.
The flip side:
Even with rising prices, Nastro notes that cheap flights are still out there — but finding them takes more planning than it used to.
Bottom line:
Bag fees may feel unavoidable — but with the right moves, many travelers can still sidestep them.
Why it matters:
- These increases tend to spread fast across the industry
- Once one airline raises fees, others usually follow
- Bag fees rarely go back down — even if costs ease
Gary P Guthrie
What it means for travelers (especially seniors):
- Expect higher total trip costs, not just ticket prices
- Prepaying for bags is now almost essential
- Traveling lighter can save real money
Between the lines:
This isn’t just about bags — it’s part of a bigger shift. Airlines are quietly turning “optional” fees into a core part of how they make money.
What to watch next:
- Whether American Airlines fully matches competitors
- Continued increases heading into summer travel season
Smart Senior Daily Staff
