Why are more travelers checking bags?

More travelers are checking bags due to growing acceptance of fees, airline credit card perks that waive these costs, and improved luggage tracking tools.

How do younger travelers view checked bag fees?

Younger travelers are more likely to accept checked bag fees as a normal part of air travel with less hesitation than older generations.

What is the financial impact of checked bag fees?

In 2024, airlines collectively made $7.3 billion from checked bag fees, according to the Department of Transportation.

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Checked Bags Surge: Travelers Embrace Fees Again

4 Feb

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Summary

More travelers are checking bags, reversing the carry-on preference.
Younger generations accept checked bag fees as standard.
Credit card perks and better tracking influence bag checking.

Checked Bags Surge: Travelers Embrace Fees Again

A notable shift in air travel habits indicates more passengers are checking bags, moving away from the prior emphasis on carry-on luggage. This trend is partly attributed to travelers becoming accustomed to the fees associated with checked baggage, a practice that became widespread after American Airlines introduced the first fee in 2008. As of 2024, airlines collectively generated $7.3 billion from these fees.

Several factors contribute to this change. The increasing popularity of airline-specific credit cards means many travelers have their checked bag fees waived. Furthermore, younger travelers exhibit less hesitation in paying for airline services, including checked bags, viewing it as a normal part of the travel experience. This contrasts with older generations who remember a time before such fees were common.

Airlines have also improved their luggage tracking capabilities, with mishandled bags occurring in only 0.55% of cases in 2024. This enhanced reliability, alongside the convenience of not having to manage luggage in the cabin, is encouraging more people to check their bags. Travelers opting to check luggage are advised to consider airline credit cards for fee waivers and utilize tracking devices for peace of mind.