That cheap holiday ticket can get more expensive when a suitcase joins the party. Checked bag charges, carry on limits, and fare rules differ by airline, and some fees change with the route or travel date. This guide compares ten U.S. airlines using their published baggage information, so you can spot where costs are fixed and where you must check your exact trip. Prices below are in U.S. dollars, per bag, each way.
Domestic baggage snapshot
The figures are not a promise for every itinerary. Fare type, loyalty status, eligible credit cards, and when you buy a bag can change the total. “Route priced” means the airline requires trip details for the current price. Check before paying, because a little suitcase math now beats a surprise at the airport.
| Airline | First checked bag | Carry on snapshot |
|---|---|---|
| American | $45 online, $50 at airport | One carry on and personal item included |
| Delta | $45 | One carry on and personal item included |
| Southwest | $45 | One carry on and personal item included |
| Alaska | $45 | Carry on included |
| JetBlue | $45 off peak, $49 peak | Carry on and personal item included |
| Allegiant | Route priced, up to $75 at airport | Personal item free, carry on costs extra |
| Frontier | Route priced | Personal item free, carry on costs extra |
| Breeze | Route priced | Personal item free, carry on may cost extra |
| Spirit | Route priced | Personal item free, carry on may cost extra |
| United | Use its trip fee calculator | Basic Economy may exclude full size carry on |
American’s online price applies to eligible domestic trips, while Delta’s standard domestic first bag is $45 and its second is $55. Southwest lists $45 for the first bag on many mainland fares. Alaska’s current published first bag price is $45. JetBlue adds seasonal pricing, which matters during busy holiday periods. See the airlines’ bag policies, Delta baggage guide, and JetBlue fee details.
What to check before booking
Compare the full trip cost, not just the fare shown first. A family checking two bags each way could pay substantially more than a solo traveler with one backpack. On airlines with route pricing, add the exact flight to the baggage calculator before checkout. Then check bag size and weight limits, because an oversized suitcase can bring another fee. Bundles sometimes include luggage, but only if the package total is actually cheaper.
For Thanksgiving and winter holiday flights, reserve bags early and keep the confirmation handy. Busy dates can bring higher demand, longer airport lines, and seasonal baggage prices. Put medicine, chargers, travel documents, and a change of clothes in your cabin bag, especially when checking luggage. Read TSA’s packing guidance before you zip it shut. It is a small step, but it can save a whole lot of airport hassle.
Fees and rules can change, and exceptions apply by route, fare, and traveler status. Verify prices directly with the airline before purchase. Comparison information is general and is not a guarantee of the fee for a particular booking.
