Say goodbye to dreading those extra fees when checking your bags for a flight! Nobody likes the checked baggage fees of domestic flights; however, that has become a part of life now.
But there’s good news: you can bypass these charges and enjoy a stress-free journey.
While the option to travel light with just a carry-on is always there, it might not suit everyone.
Fortunately, certain credit cards come to the rescue, offering free checked bags as a valuable perk.
Many of these cards are affiliated with specific airlines, so choosing the one aligned with your frequent travel choices can save you from hefty baggage fees.
Gone are the days when checked bags were a standard inclusion in your airfare.
Learn about the best free checked bag credit cards that make your baggage fees disappear in our comprehensive guide.
While these cards often come with annual fees, the benefits they provide can easily outweigh the costs and make your trip more convenient.
Which airline has free checked bags?
When it comes to airlines, free checked bags can be a game-changer for travelers who prefer to pack more than just the essentials.
However, most carriers impose fees for checked baggage, making it essential to explore options for a more economical journey.
Southwest Airlines stands out as the sole domestic airline that refrains from imposing checked bag fees on all passengers, regardless of elite status or fare type.
With an attractive policy, Southwest lets each traveler check two bags, each weighing up to 50 pounds, without incurring any fees, making it a favorable choice for budget-conscious travelers on every flight.
While some other airlines may provide free checked bags on specific routes or for certain fare classes, Southwest’s transparent pricing and minimal fees make it a preferred choice for those seeking cost-effective travel.
For frequent flyers who value luggage freedom, Southwest Airlines emerges as a standout option in the competitive aviation landscape.
| Airline | First Checked Bag Fee |
|---|---|
Southwest Airlines | $0 |
Alaska Airlines | $30 |
American Airlines | $30 |
Delta | $30 |
Hawaiian | $30 |
JetBlue | $35 |
United | $35 |
How to avoid checked bag fees?
In the quest for budget-friendly flights, overlooking baggage fees can lead to unexpected costs.
However, with the right strategies, you can avoid these charges and travel more economically.
With the following tips, you can ensure a more economical trip.
Know the FeesResearch baggage fees before booking, as they vary by airline and route. Southwest Airlines provides ultimate travel savings with two free checked bags.
Use the Right Credit CardCertain airline credit cards provide a free first-checked bag for cardholders.
For example- Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card offers this perk for up to nine people on a reservation.
Book First or Business ClassHigher-class tickets may include free checked bags, potentially making them more cost-effective, especially for multiple bags.
Get Elite StatusAirlines often grant free checked bags to frequent flier program members with elite status.
Some credit cards, like the World of Hyatt Credit Card, offer automatic elite status with partner airlines.
Military DiscountsMany airlines offer free checked bags for military members and their dependents.
JetBlue, for instance, allows active-duty military personnel and dependents two free bags each for leisure travel.
Pack LightStick to carry-ons; most airlines allow one free carry-on and one personal item. Confirm dimensions to avoid unexpected fees.
6 Best Free Checked Bag Credit Cards
You should take care of a few things to make the most of your credit card’s free checked bag benefit without overlooking potential savings.
To access the free checked bag benefit with most cards, simply link your frequent flyer number to your reservation.
However, some airlines like Alaska and United require using the airline credit card for ticket purchases.
Contrary to popular belief, having a credit card with free checked bag benefits does not mean you get an extra free checked bag.
If you already have a free checked bag due to elite status, class of service, or overseas travel, having a credit card with this benefit won’t grant you an additional free bag.
Some airlines may have exceptions, so check your airline’s policy regarding second bags.
Unlock travel perks and save on checked bag fees with the top 6 Free Checked Bag Credit Cards.
These cards offer excellent rewards and enhance your overall travel experience.
From bonus miles to exclusive perks, these credit cards are tailored for savvy travelers who want to make the most of their journeys.
Say goodbye to unnecessary expenses and hello to worry-free travel with these top picks.
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card_name
The card_name stands out as one of the best free checked bag credit cards due to its exclusive benefits for Delta Air Lines travelers.
Cardholders enjoy a complimentary first checked bag, saving up to $60 per round trip, making it a valuable perk for frequent flyers.
With annual_fees it provides 2x miles on dining, on U.S. supermarkets, and eligible Delta purchases.
Additionally, this Delta Gold card offers travel insurance benefits, a $100 Delta Flight Credit, priority boarding, and no foreign transaction fees. Terms Apply**.
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card_name
The card_name is a top choice for those seeking a free checked bag benefit.
Cardholders and one of their companions on the same flight receive their first checked bag free, potentially saving up to $140 per round trip.
Beyond this perk, the card offers 2x miles on United purchases, hotels, and dining, two United Club one-time passes annually, priority boarding, and travel credits.
With these features and just a $95 annual fee (waived for the first year), it’s an excellent choice for United Airlines enthusiasts.
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is renowned for its exceptional free checked bag benefit, allowing cardholders to enjoy free first and second-checked bags on flights.
It translates to substantial savings for frequent Southwest Airlines travelers.
The card further enhances its appeal with a generous sign-up bonus, accelerated 2x Rapid Rewards points on Southwest purchases, hotel & car rental partners, local transit, and more, 3,000-anniversary points, and no blackout dates or seat restrictions.
You also get valuable travel protections and flexible redemption with just a $69 annual fee.
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Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® card shines as a premier free checked bag credit card for American Airlines loyalists.
Cardholders and up to four companions on the same reservation receive their first checked bag free, offering substantial savings.
Beyond this, with an annual fee of $99 (waived for the first year), the card features accelerated 2x AAdvantage miles at restaurants, gas stations, and eligible American Airlines purchases, a generous welcome bonus, preferred boarding, and a 25% discount on in-flight purchases.
These benefits make it a standout choice for those frequently flying with American Airlines.
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is a standout option for travelers seeking a free checked bag benefit and additional perks with Southwest Airlines.
Cardholders and their travel companions enjoy the first two checked bags free, providing significant value.
The card further distinguishes itself with an annual travel credit, upgraded boarding, no foreign transaction fees, and anniversary bonus points.
You also earn 3x points on Southwest purchases and 2x on local transit, hotel & car rental partners, internet, etc.
With its comprehensive set of benefits, this card caters to the needs of dedicated Southwest Airlines passengers.
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JetBlue Plus Mastercard
The JetBlue Plus Mastercard earns its reputation as one of the best free checked bag credit cards, offering cardholders and up to three companions on the same reservation their first checked bag free.
This Barclays-issued card is an excellent choice for JetBlue loyalists.
With only a $99 annual fee, the card provides 6x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x on restaurants and grocery stores, and a generous sign-up bonus.
It also offers a 10% points rebate on redemptions, no foreign transaction fees, and 50% savings on eligible inflight purchases, making it a compelling choice for JetBlue enthusiasts.
| Credit card | Uthrive rating | Intro offer | Rewards rate | Annual fee | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Terms Apply | Rating
4.7/5 | Intro Offer bonus_miles_full | Reward Rates Up to 2x Miles | Annual Fees annual_fees | |
Terms Apply | Rating
4.2/5 | Intro Offer bonus_miles_full | Reward Rates 1x - 2x Miles | Annual Fees annual_fees | |
Terms Apply | Rating
4.5/5 | Intro Offer bonus_miles_full | Reward Rates 1x - 2x points | Annual Fees annual_fees | |
Terms Apply | Rating
4.6/5 | Intro Offer bonus_miles_full | Reward Rates 1 - 2 miles for each dollar | Annual Fees annual_fees | |
Terms Apply | Rating
4.6/5 | Intro Offer bonus_miles_full | Reward Rates 1x - 3x points | Annual Fees annual_fees |
Final Takeaway
You can unlock significant savings on your air travel with the complimentary checked bags provided by these credit cards.
If you’re a frequent traveler with luggage, it might be beneficial to enroll in one or more travel credit cards, especially if you are loyal to specific airlines.
Notably, the airline cards featured here, offering complimentary checked bags, often come with annual fees under $100.
The bonus miles from the welcome offer enhance your savings, eliminating the need for hefty luggage fees with each flight.
Numerous airlines offer co-branded credit cards, many featuring the valuable benefit of a free first-checked bag.
When selecting a travel card, evaluate your preferences, including your preferred airport, frequent airlines, and the importance of perks like lounge access.
Opting for a card with free baggage is a reliable method to cut costs on your upcoming travels.
Make sure the credit card aligns with your preferences and travel habits before making a decision.
FAQs
Who gives a free checked bag?
Southwest Airlines offers free checked bags for all passengers, regardless of class or elite status.
Several other airlines provide free checked bags as a perk with certain credit cards or elite status. Examples include Delta, American Airlines, and United, among others.
How can I avoid checked bag fees?
To avoid checked bag fees, consider flying with airlines that offer free checked bags, obtaining elite status, using co-branded credit cards, such as Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card, card_name, and card_name, or packing light and opting for carry-on luggage.
Which airlines give 2 free checked bags?
Southwest provides two free checked bags as part of their standard baggage policies, often without the need for specific credit cards.
Do you get free checked bags with American credit card?
Yes, some American Airlines credit cards, like the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, offer complimentary checked bags as a benefit for cardholders.
How to get a free checked bag with Delta?
Delta SkyMiles credit cards, such as the card_name, often provide a free checked bag as a cardholder benefit, allowing you to enjoy this perk when flying with Delta.
Which airlines gives maximum baggage allowance?
Airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines are known for offering generous baggage allowances, often providing higher weight limits and additional bags for passengers traveling internationally.
