Your Next Flight Just Got Even MORE Expensive

It’s certainly no secret that travel is expensive these days, and it’s only getting pricier as the days go by.

Baggage claim at MCO!

No matter where you’re heading on your next trip, if you’re flying, chances are your flights will be even more expensive than you originally anticipated — and it’s all because baggage fees are increasing. Five major U.S. airlines have recently announced price hikes on baggage fees, and we’re sharing everything you need to know.

Delta Air Lines is charging most passengers even more to check their bags as of April 7th, with the first checked bag starting at $45, and the second costing $55. These changes apply only to tickets purchased on or after April 8th on domestic and select short-haul international routes. Checked bag prices on long-haul international routes will not change.

©Getty Images

“These updates are part of Delta’s ongoing review of pricing across its business and reflect the impact of evolving global conditions and industry dynamics,” a Delta spokesperson told USA TODAY in a statement.

©Getty Images

After only recently starting to charge for the first checked bag, Southwest Airlines also announced it will increase checked bag fees. The changes apply to reservations made or changed voluntarily after April 9th. The carrier will now charge $45 instead of $35 for the first checked bag, with the second checked bag costing $55.

Southwest Airlines

“As part of an ongoing analysis of the business and against the evolving global backdrop, Southwest Airlines is increasing its fees on first and second checked bags by $10,” a Southwest Airlines statement said.

Southwest Airlines at John Wayne International Airport

United Airlines will now charge $50 for the first checked bag, or $45 for passengers who prepay. JetBlue is charging $39 for the first checked bag during off-peak travel times, or $49 during peak times like the summer and major holidays.

As of April 9th, American Airlines has also increased its checked bag fees by $10. Prepaid checked bags will be $45 for the first and $55 for the second. A third checked bag will cost $200, which is a $50 increase over the normal price.

©United Airlines

Jet fuel costs have more than doubled in the almost seven weeks since the U.S. and Israel started a war with Iran. Fuel is the second biggest expense for airlines after labor, typically, which is why these baggage increases have been implemented across many airlines.

The price hikes started with JetBlue, with United announcing its increases later that week. American, Delta, and Southwest followed suit.

American Airlines

If you’ve got an upcoming flight on these — or any other — airlines, make sure you double-check the price of checking your bags to see if the costs have increased. Many of these price hikes do not apply to those in select loyalty groups for these airlines, so it’s possible that even if you do have a flight on one, your costs will not increase.

©JetBlue

We’ll be on the lookout for additional travel updates that could impact your upcoming trips. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney and travel news!

4 Things I Wish I Knew Before Waiting 45 Minutes in Line at the Orlando Airport

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Will you be flying anytime soon? Let us know in the comments.