Normally, the cheaper the flight the more restrictive they are with all the rules. Therefore, if you buy a cheap flight, the baggage fees will normally be higher. If you buy a higher priced fare, normally the baggage is more inclusive (can take more weight) or will cost less to add more.

Adding baggage is expensive in 2026 because airlines have transitioned from a "bundled" service model to an "unbundled" revenue model, where baggage fees are a critical profit center. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, major airlines now generate billions of dollars annually from these fees alone, often exceeding $7 billion. Legally and logistically, these charges are justified as a way to offset the increased fuel consumption caused by extra weight and the labor costs associated with ground handling and security screening. However, from a business perspective, charging for bags allows airlines to advertise a lower "base fare" to stay competitive on search engines, only to recoup the difference through "ancillary revenue" like luggage. Furthermore, as planes become more fuel-efficient, the actual cost of carrying a bag has dropped, but the market price has increased because travelers have few alternatives. This "dynamic pricing" means fees are often higher if paid at the airport versus online, incentivizing travelers to pay early and accurately predict their needs.