Hate Paying Airline Baggage Fees? These 6 Tips From an Experienced Traveler Could Save You Money

Airline baggage fees can quickly add up. If you don't like the idea of paying extra fees when you fly and prefer not to deal with the hassle of potentially losing your checked bag along the way, this article is for you. When traveling, there are several strategies you can use to avoid airline baggage fees. Here are some tips from a seasoned traveler who rarely checks a bag. 

1. Bring a carry-on bag and do laundry at your destination

I can understand why it may seem impossible to only travel with carry-on luggage if you're planning to be on vacation for several days or weeks. But I can assure you that it's possible. It takes time to get used to packing light, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. 

I frequently plan longer getaways, so it's not uncommon for me to be away for two weeks. I don't want to worry about whether my checked baggage will arrive at my destination on time without getting lost or damaged. For this reason, I usually fly with carry-on luggage only. 

I pack what fits in my suitcase and plan to do laundry during my travels. Sometimes, I stay in a vacation rental with included laundry facilities. But often, I stay at a hotel and plan to spend an afternoon at a local laundromat so I'm not stuck wearing dirty clothes. It works out well for me. 

2. Fly with Southwest Airlines

Southwest is one U.S.-based carrier with a reputation for charging fewer added fees. Regardless of the fare booked, all travelers can check two bags for free when flying with this carrier. If you're looking for a way to save on bag fees, you may want to try this airline. You can bring all your essentials on your next trip without draining your bank account. 

3. Get a credit card with free checked bag perks

If you typically fly with the same airline, it may make sense to consider applying for one of the best airline credit cards. Some airline credit cards include free checked bag perks, allowing travelers to avoid paying checked bag fees. If you can't imagine stuffing all of your belongings in a carry-on bag for your next vacation, this may be a good solution for you to explore. 

4. Book a premium class ticket

Another way to save money on checked bag fees is by flying on a first class or business class ticket. Most premium class tickets include added benefits, like checked bag perks. Of course, you'll have to spend extra money to fly in a premium cabin. 

But it may be cheaper than you think, thanks to travel hacks. One option is to book premium airfare deals. Another option is to use credit card rewards to book travel. With one of the best travel rewards credit cards, you may be able to book a premium class ticket for cheap. 

5. Achieve elite status with your favorite airline

When you're loyal to one airline, you can access added perks. One way to save on baggage fees is to earn elite status with your favorite airline. Review the frequent flier program for your go-to airline to see whether it offers a free checked bag to elite-status members. If you fly often and usually fly with the same airline, it may be worthwhile to try to achieve this status. 

6. Fly to an international destination

While not all airlines offer free checked bag perks to economy travelers when flying internationally, many do. It's more common to be charged checked bag fees when flying economy to destinations within the United States. If you're traveling outside the country for your next trip, you can likely check a bag without paying extra, so you can bring what you need.

Avoiding extra fees is a win for your wallet

Finding ways to avoid extra fees can be a win for your wallet. Every bit of money you save in your daily life can help you improve your personal financial situation. The next time you plan a trip, consider using one of the above strategies so you don't waste money on baggage fees.