It's rare to find U.S. airlines with free checked baggage. Southwest Airlines is the only airline without any bag fees. For other airlines, you'll need to earn elite status or book your tickets with an airline credit card.
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Southwest has long applied a similar military-friendly stance regarding its baggage policy. While the company often promotes its “bags fly free” policy, the reality for military members extends far beyond the two checked bags this slogan normally represents.
Southwest Checked Baggage AllowanceAll checked bags must adhere to a max weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) and must adhere to max linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 cm). Southwest is the only airline that provides 2 FREE CHECKED BAGS for all fares.
Southwest charges absolutely no bag fees. American, Alaska, Delta and Hawaiian charge $30 for a checked bag, while JetBlue and United charge $35 for the same. Low-cost airlines Spirit and Frontier separate from the pack here, as they charge customers for all overhead carry-on items.
Southwest will accept the first two checked bags for free provided that the bags do not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H). Overweight items from 51-70 pounds will cost $100. Overweight items 71-100 pounds will cost $125.
On Delta-operated flights, you may carry on one bag and a small personal item at no charge. Carry-on allowances may differ and fees may apply for flights operated by carriers other than Delta. Contact the operating carrier for detailed carry-on limitations and charges. Fees may vary by country and currency.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a carry-on bag and personal item for free. However, some airlines may only allow a personal item that fits under your seat for free. Anything larger (e.g. a bag that's too big to fit under the seat but can fit into the overhead compartment) may require extra payment.
Basic economy is United's least-expensive economy fare class. Unlike some of the other perks (i.e. free checked bag, seat selection) included on a regular economy ticket, basic economy offers nothing extra. In addition, you'll board last and may not be able to bring a carry-on.
Snyder said there were a couple of financial factors that played into the decision by airlines to begin charging for first and second checked bags in 2008. One, he said, is that the carriers were facing the Great Recession. Another was a spike in fuel prices.
Domestic carry-on policies. A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.
All published bag fees apply at each check-in location and are base rates according to travel dates and destination; applicable taxes are not shown. All bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person, each way, even if you buy or get an upgrade that includes free checked bags.
You can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free on most domestic and international flights. But there are a few rules you'll need to follow.
In general, your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on and under the specific airline's carry-on dimensions, allowing it to fit under the seat in front of you. In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.
Southwest will accept the first two checked bags for free provided that the bags do not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H). Overweight items from 51-70 pounds will cost $100. Overweight items 71-100 pounds will cost $125.