Can we take 2 check in baggage in flight?

Beyond the First Bag: Navigating Second Checked Baggage Fees

Planning a trip often involves the intricate dance of packing. You meticulously fold, roll, and compress, desperately trying to fit everything into that single suitcase allowed for “free” on most domestic flights. But what happens when one bag simply isn’t enough? The question inevitably arises: can you check a second bag, and if so, what’s the cost?

The answer, in most cases, is yes, you can certainly check a second bag on a domestic flight. However, be prepared to pay a fee. The days of unlimited free checked luggage are largely a thing of the past. Airlines have increasingly adopted baggage fees as a significant revenue stream, and checking a second bag is almost guaranteed to come with a price tag.

The Cost of Extra Luggage:

So, how much are we talking? Generally, expect to pay somewhere in the range of $80-$90 for that second checked bag on a domestic flight within the United States. This is just a general estimate, and the actual cost can fluctuate depending on several factors, most notably:

• The Airline: Each airline sets its own baggage fee schedule. Discount carriers often have lower base fares, but they compensate with steeper baggage fees. Conversely, some legacy carriers might have slightly higher initial fares, but the difference in baggage fees might not be as drastic. Always check the specific airline’s website for their current baggage policy.
• Weight and Size Restrictions: This is a crucial point. Your second bag, like your first, must adhere to the airline’s weight and size limitations. Exceeding these limits can result in hefty overweight or oversized baggage fees on top of the standard second bag fee. Make sure you weigh and measure your bags before you get to the airport to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
• Route and Class of Service: While less common on purely domestic routes, certain routes or specific classes of service might influence baggage fees.

Ways to Potentially Reduce or Waive Second Bag Fees:

While paying for that extra suitcase might seem unavoidable, there are strategies to explore that could potentially save you money:

• Elite Airline Status: This is often the golden ticket. Passengers with elite status within an airline’s loyalty program often receive complimentary checked baggage, frequently including a second bag, as a perk.
• Airline Credit Card Perks: Many airline-branded credit cards offer a free checked bag benefit to cardholders and sometimes even companions traveling on the same reservation. This can significantly offset the annual fee of the credit card, especially if you frequently travel with checked luggage.
• Consider Shipping: For longer trips or when transporting bulky items, consider comparing the cost of checking a second bag to the price of shipping your belongings via a service like UPS or FedEx. Depending on the weight, distance, and speed of delivery, shipping can sometimes be a more economical option.
• Pack Strategically (and Light): While this sounds obvious, it’s worth emphasizing. Can you really not pare down your wardrobe or share items with a travel companion? The most effective way to avoid second bag fees is to simply not need a second bag.

Before You Fly:

In conclusion, checking a second bag on a domestic flight is generally permissible, but it will likely cost you. To avoid unwelcome financial surprises at the check-in counter:

• Thoroughly research the airline’s specific baggage policy before your flight.
• Weigh and measure your bags to ensure they comply with size and weight restrictions.
• Explore options for reducing or waiving fees, such as airline status or credit card benefits.
• Consider alternative methods of transporting your belongings, like shipping.

By taking these proactive steps, you can navigate the world of baggage fees with greater awareness and potentially save yourself a significant sum of money, allowing you to allocate those funds to more enjoyable aspects of your trip.