Before you check into your flight, you can buy an additional bag to put in the hold. This is a costly option that gets more expensive the closer to your date of departure and even costlier if added on at the airport. There are still weight limitations and not every airline will allow you to book an extra suitcase.

Yes, you can add baggage to your reservation at almost any time before your flight in 2026, and doing so early is the most cost-effective strategy. Most airlines allow you to add checked bags via their mobile app or website up until the check-in window closes (usually 60 minutes before departure). Adding bags during the initial booking or via the app before arriving at the airport typically costs 30-50% less than paying at the airport counter. For 2026 travelers in India, new baggage rules have also simplified the process for international duty-free items. If you realize your suitcase is overweight or you've bought too many souvenirs, it is a "pro-tip" to log into your airline's "Manage Booking" section and pay for the extra allowance digitally to avoid the much higher "excess baggage" fees often charged by gate agents during the boarding process.