Airlines with Complimentary Baggage Check-ins on Their Credit Cards
In the realm of air travel, understanding checked baggage fees and benefits can significantly impact a traveler's experience. Here's a breakdown of the policies of some major US airlines, providing clarity on what to expect when packing for your next journey.
United Airlines
For domestic travel, United charges $40 for each way for the first bag ($35 if prepaid) and $50 for the second bag ($45 if prepaid). However, United Economy passengers can check a bag up to 50 pounds without additional fees. Business and first-class ticket holders, as well as Premier Silver members and above, can check a bag up to 70 pounds. The New United ClubSM Card offers two free bags for the cardholder and a companion on every United flight.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines charges $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for any additional bags. Alaska Airlines MVP and MVP Gold level status members, first class passengers, and active military members can check bags for free. The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card provides similar benefits, offering free checked bags.
Delta Air Lines
Delta charges $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second each way. However, customers holding the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles Gold Business American Express Card, or Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card can enjoy one free checked bag for the cardholder and up to eight companions. Delta Air Lines charges checked bag fees unless the traveler has Medallion elite status or is active military.
JetBlue
JetBlue's Mint, Mosaic, Blue Plus fares include checked bags for no additional fee. For budget fares, expect to pay $35 per way for the first bag and $45 for the second. The JetBlue Plus Card offers the first checked bag free for the cardholder and up to three companions on the same reservation. Heavy or extra large luggage (51-99 pounds) on JetBlue costs $150. The JetBlue Plus Card also offers a sign-up bonus of 10,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days, and the annual fee is $99.
Special Considerations
Pineapples can be checked for free when flying back to the continental U.S. from Hawaii on Alaska Airlines. Mileage Plan members can check a case of wine for free when traveling from certain regions. When flying with JetBlue, budget fares may require payment for checked bags, but this varies depending on the fare type. Heavy bags (51-100 pounds) or oversized luggage on Alaska Airlines cost $100 per bag.
Credit Card Perks
The Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature credit card offers free checked luggage for the cardholder and up to six other people on the reservation. The New UnitedSM Business Card offers a welcome bonus of 100,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQP after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. The New United ClubSM Card offers a welcome bonus of 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. These are the major US airline credit cards that include a free checked baggage option for their customers.
In conclusion, understanding checked baggage fees and benefits can help travelers make informed decisions when planning their journeys. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, these insights can help ensure a smoother, more cost-effective travel experience.
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