There are two main ways to avoid checked baggage fees on airlines: either have elite status, or an airline’s co-branded credit card.
In a day and age where airlines are nickel and diming for checked baggage fees, it’s comforting to know there are a few airlines out there that don’t charge to carry those bags – with or without elite status or a credit card.
Air Canada
- Does not charge for the first checked bags.
- No charge for carry-on items.
- Second checked bags are $30.
JetBlue
- Does not charge for the first checked bag.
- Second checked bag is $35.
Southwest
- Does not charge for the first checked bag.
- Does not charge for the second checked bag.
- Third and more checked bags are $50.
WestJet
- Does not charge for the first checked bags.
- Second checked bag is $20.
If you’re looking to fly your luggage for free, these are the best airlines to fly on to avoid the excess fees. Of course, I always think its easier to use elite status or a credit card to get this perk, however many folks won’t fly enough to earn that status, or simply don’t want another credit card in their wallet.
Steve says
Both Air Canada and WestJet recently introduced baggage fees for the lower fare tickets. No more 1st bag free unless it is full fare or high fare basis ticket.
Carl Stewart says
Same for JetBlue. You should update this posting which is now nearly 2 years old