‘This is going to hurt families': Here’s the real reason airlines like Delta and JetBlue are raising baggage fees (and how to avoid them)

Katy Nastro, a travel expert for the website Going, discussed the increased baggage fees with MarketWatch (5). She explained that the airline industry is a copycat industry, and she expects more airlines to follow suit.

"This is going to hurt families since it's likely we see this become the norm across all airlines," Nastro said.

Airlines might be working against themselves

Air travellers are already facing higher plane ticket prices, so adding on these baggage fees further hurts budgets. Business Insider (6) reported that the average price of a transcontinental flight has risen from $167 to $414 since the war began. They also stated that "the average Transatlantic flight is some 40% more expensive than a month ago."

MarketWatch (7) spoke with Michael Taylor, a senior managing director with JD Power who tracks the travel industry. Taylor said raising bag fees is "one of the worst things you can do as far as satisfaction and loyalty [go]."

Avoiding costly fees when travelling

As of right now, these increased travel fees are our reality. And whether you have a vacation you're trying to plan, a family event or a business trip, you still have some options to help you stick to your budget.

Travel with a carry-on only. Perhaps the most obvious thing you can do to avoid baggage fees is not bring a checked bag. Try to pack as light as possible and optimize your carry-on bag and personal item of choice to fit as much as you need to bring. This might also mean bringing less items home with you.

Pre-pay for your bags online. If you do decide to check a bag, paying the fee in advance online can save you money. Failing that, some airlines even offer discounts for paying for your bags more than 24 hours before your flight. Otherwise, you may be stuck with an upcharge for baggage fees paid at the airport right before you fly.

Use a travel credit card. Some travel rewards credit cards offer special baggage prices as one of their perks. Find out the details of your current travel credit card, or try to find one to apply for that aligns with your needs.

Article Sources

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BBC (1); Delta Air Lines (2); Southwest Airlines (3); The New York Times (4); MarketWatch (5,7); Business Insider (6)