How can I get out of paying my baggage fees?

Smart Strategies to Avoid Baggage Fees

Navigating the complexities of airline baggage policies can be daunting, especially with the added expense of checked baggage fees. However, there are clever strategies you can employ to minimize or even eliminate these costs.

Strategic Airline Selection

• Choose airlines with lenient baggage policies: Some budget airlines, such as Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines, offer free checked bags for a limited number of pieces. Research different airlines to find one that aligns with your travel needs.
• Join frequent flier programs: Airlines often reward loyalty by offering free checked baggage privileges to their members. Join frequent flier programs and accumulate miles to unlock this benefit.

Pre-Arranged Payment

• Pre-pay for checked baggage: Pre-paying for checked bags during booking often secures a lower cost than paying at the airport. Most airlines offer discounted rates for pre-paid baggage.

Fare Upgrades

• Consider fare upgrades: In some cases, upgrading your fare class can include complimentary checked baggage allowance. Weigh the cost of an upgrade against the potential savings on baggage fees.

Alternative Options

• Airlines without baggage fees: A small number of airlines, such as Allegiant Air, Spirit Airlines, and Breeze Airways, do not charge baggage fees upfront. However, these airlines may impose other restrictions or fees, so carefully review their policies before booking.
• Packing light: Minimize the number of checked bags by packing light and wearing your heaviest items on the plane. Consider using packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space.
• Consolidating bags: Combine multiple bags into one larger piece to avoid additional charges for multiple checked bags.
• Shipping your luggage: Send your luggage ahead of time using a shipping service like Luggage Forward or ShipGo. This option can be cost-effective for heavy or oversized items that incur high baggage fees.

Remember:

• Always check the specific baggage policies of the airline you’re booking with.
• Be aware of any weight or size restrictions for checked bags.
• Allow ample time for check-in, especially if you’re anticipating baggage fees.
• By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate baggage fees, maximizing your travel savings and making air travel more affordable.