United Airlines is the latest carrier to raise bag fees. Here's how much more you'll have to pay.
- United Airlines raised its baggage fees over the weekend.
- The airline told passengers to expect a $5 increase for checked bags.
It might be time to start traveling lighter because another major airline is upping the price for checked bags.
United Airlines announced Friday that any economy-class passengers on domestic flights who booked tickets after that date will pay $5 more "in most markets."
Using the airline's bag fee calculator, Business Insider found that the fee for a bag flying from New York City to Houston would be $40.
For a second bag, the price rose from $45 if paid in advance online or $50 at the airport.
It's not the first major airline to raise its baggage fees in 2024. Days before United's announcement, American Airlines raised its first and second checked bags to $40 and $45, respectively.
And earlier this year, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines also moved to charge travelers more for their checked bags.
Alaska Airlines passengers who booked after January 2 saw a $5 bump for their first two bags. For JetBlue, it's a $10 increase for a bag checked within 24 hours of departure.
Baggage fees have proved lucrative for airlines over the years. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported that airlines made nearly $5.5 billion in bag fees during the first nine months of 2023.
Frequent travelers may consider investing in a dependable carry-on bag if they hope to avoid the extra cost of checked bags.
Are you a current or recent employee at a major airline? Reach out to this reporter via email at jhart@businessinsider.com with any tips.