Travel News: New Baggage Fees Take Effect
Travelers face higher costs for their luggage this year. The latest travel news shows airlines are raising baggage fees across the board. Many carriers have announced these changes recently. This travel news breaks down the new policies from major airlines. It also offers smart tips to avoid extra charges. Stay informed with these essential travel updates.
Major Airlines Raise Checked Bag Fees
Several large airlines have increased fees for checked bags. The hikes vary by route and fare type. This travel news covers the most significant changes.
Air Canada’s New Fee Structure
Air Canada updated its checked baggage policy in two phases. For flights within Canada or to the U.S., fees changed on April 13, 2026. Economy Basic and Standard passengers now pay CA/US$45 for the first bag . The second bag costs CA/US$60 . Economy Flex passengers get the first bag free . However, the second bag costs CA/US$60 .
Then, on May 14, 2026, fees increased for long-haul routes. This applies to flights between Canada or the U.S. and Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South America . Economy Basic passengers now pay CA/US$90 for the first bag . The second bag costs CA/US$120 . Economy Standard and Flex passengers get the first bag free but pay CA/US$120 for the second . These are big increases for world travel.
WestJet Follows the Trend
WestJet raised its baggage fees starting April 23, 2026 . This is the airline’s third increase in three years . The price hike is $10 per bag for airport payments. It is $5 per bag for online payments . Passengers on ultra-basic fares now pay between $60 to $93 for their first bag . The second bag costs $75 to $111 . Standard econo passengers pay $45 to $81 for the first bag . The second bag costs $60 to $99 . This follows a similar move by Air Canada . These are crucial travel updates for Canadian travellers.
American Airlines Increases Fees
American Airlines also raised its checked bag fees. The new rates apply to tickets issued on or after May 18, 2026 . For domestic U.S. flights, the first checked bag now costs $55 for Basic Economy . Main Cabin passengers pay $50 . There is a $5 discount for paying online . The second bag costs $60 for Main Cabin and $65 for Basic Economy . These fees apply per person and each way . These changes affect many travel destinations.
United Airlines Raises Fees Too
United Airlines increased fees for tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026 . Checked bag fees now start at $45 for prepayment . Lobby payment costs $50, and gate checking costs $75 . Basic Economy passengers also face new rules for carry-on bags . For most flights, they must check their carry-on at the lobby for a fee . Bringing it to the gate triggers a $75 charge . This is a big shift in policy.
Air Transat Updates Its Fees
Air Transat raised baggage prices effective June 1, 2026 . The increase applies to any checked baggage purchased within 24 hours of departure . This applies to online or counter purchases . The new fees vary by destination . For flights within Canada, the first bag costs £35.70-39.10 . The second costs £46.20-50.60 . For U.S. flights, the first bag costs £34-35.70 . The second costs £44-46.20 . Reservations made before May 15, 2026, are eligible for the old price . This is key travel news for budget flyers.
Carry-On Fees Are Also Changing
Airlines are not just targeting checked bags. Some are now charging for carry-on luggage. This is a significant travel news development.
Lufthansa Group Introduces Carry-On Charges
Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa introduced carry-on baggage fees. This applies to bookings from April 28, 2026, for travel after May 19, 2026 . The policy covers short and medium-haul routes . This includes city break destinations . The rule also applies to other Lufthansa Group carriers . Passengers on the new “economy basic fare” can only bring a small personal item . A larger carry-on bag costs an extra fee starting from €15 . This marks a major shift in global travel policies.
United Airlines Basic Economy Carry-On Rules
United Airlines also restricts carry-on bags for Basic Economy. On most flights, these passengers must check their carry-on bag . They cannot bring it onboard the aircraft . The fee starts at $45 if paid at the lobby . It jumps to $75 if brought to the gate . This change affects many travel destinations.
Southwest Airlines Adds Fees for Basic Fares
Southwest Airlines, known for free bags, is changing its policy. For travel booked on or after April 9, 2026, Basic Fare passengers now pay for checked bags . The first bag costs $45, and the second costs $55 . Choice Fare passengers pay $45 for the first bag and $55 for the second . This is a big change for a beloved airline. Elite members and credit card holders still get free bags . This is important travel news for loyal customers.
International Airlines Also Hike Fees
The fee increases are a global trend. Several international carriers have raised prices. These are key travel updates for international flyers.
Israir Raises Fees Again
Israir raised its checked baggage fees for the third time in 18 months. The increase took effect for bookings from May 1, 2026 . The price of a first checked bag rose to $65 each way . This applies to advance purchases. Passengers paying at the airport pay $100 each way . This is a significant cost for adventure travel ideas.
Finnair’s Fee Updates
Finnair also updated its baggage fees. The new fees apply to various routes. For journeys between North America and Europe, Economy Light passengers pay €75/$75 for the first bag . The second bag costs €90/$100 . Fees are different for European and Asian routes. This shows the varied approach to fees. It impacts many world travel plans.
How to Avoid Paying Baggage Fees
Higher fees are frustrating. However, there are ways to avoid them. These travel safety tips and strategies can help.
Pack Light and Use Carry-Ons
The best way to avoid checked bag fees is to pack light. Stick to a carry-on bag if possible. However, be aware of carry-on restrictions. Some airlines, like United, charge for carry-ons on Basic Economy . Always check the airline’s policy. Packing light is a key adventure travel idea. It saves you time and money.
Earn Airline Elite Status
Airline loyalty programs offer free baggage benefits. Elite members often get free checked bags. For instance, Southwest A-List members get free first checked bags . Credit card holders also get perks. American Airlines AAdvantage credit cardholders get free checked bags on domestic flights . These perks are valuable travel safety tips for frequent flyers.
Pay Online in Advance
Paying for bags online is almost always cheaper. You can save $5 or more per bag . American Airlines offers a $5 discount for online payments . WestJet also charges less for online payments . This is a simple way to save money. Plan ahead and pay during online check-in.
Check Your Fare Type Carefully
Not all fares include the same baggage allowance. Basic Economy fares often exclude checked bags . They may even restrict carry-ons . Higher fares like Main Cabin or Flex often include a free bag . Choose the fare that fits your needs. This is a smart travel update to remember.
FAQs About New Baggage Fees
When did the new baggage fees take effect?
Different airlines have different dates. Air Canada changed fees on April 13 and May 14, 2026 . American Airlines changed on May 18, 2026 . WestJet changed on April 23, 2026 .
Which airlines charge for carry-on bags?
Lufthansa Group carriers charge for carry-ons on basic fares . United Airlines also charges for carry-ons on Basic Economy for most flights .
How can I save on baggage fees?
Pay for your bags online in advance. This is usually cheaper than paying at the airport . You can also pack light to avoid checked bags entirely.
Do elite status members get free bags?
Yes, most airlines offer free checked bags to elite status members. This also applies to co-branded credit cardholders in many cases .
Are the new fees the same for all routes?
No, fees vary by route. Long-haul international flights often have higher fees. Some routes include a free bag even for Basic Economy .
Conclusion
Baggage fees are rising across the airline industry. The travel news is clear: flying with luggage is getting more expensive. Many airlines have raised fees for both checked and carry-on bags. It started with Canadian carriers like Air Canada and WestJet . It has spread to U.S. airlines like American and United . European carriers like Lufthansa are also changing policies . To save money, pack light and pay for bags online. Earn elite status or use a co-branded credit card. Always check your fare type before booking. These strategies will help you manage costs. Stay informed with these travel updates. Plan your next trip wisely.