In recent months, airlines around the world have increasingly started to eliminate free checked baggage allowances for passengers, a noticeable trend that spans both budget and traditional carriers. Find out what has changed in airline baggage policies, including in Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America and the US

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In recent months, the world has seen a growing trend of airlines charging for checked baggage. It is worth noting that these changes are not limited to budget carriers, but also include traditional airlines.

Is the era of free checked baggage coming to an end? We find out further.

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Europe

Many European budget carriers, such as Ryanair and EasyJet, have long charged for checked baggage.

Meanwhile, traditional carriers, such as Lufthansa, British Airways and Air France, usually offer free checked baggage on their full-service economy tickets, although their policies often change to remain competitive.

However, many European airlines have introduced additional baggage fees in recent months, especially on short-haul and budget flights.

Asia

In Asia, airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Emirates and ANA usually offer checked baggage allowances, but as in other regions, fees for excess or heavy baggage are common.

Budget carriers such as AirAsia and Scoot often charge for both checked and carry-on baggage above a certain weight limit.

Australia

Airlines such as Qantas and Virgin Australia still offer free checked baggage on international flights, but are increasingly introducing baggage fees on domestic flights, especially for budget options.

Budget carriers such as Jetstar and Tigerair charge for checked baggage, and passengers must select a baggage allowance when booking to avoid additional costs.

Latin America

Many Latin American airlines, such as LATAM and Aeromexico, offer free checked bags as part of their international services, but have introduced baggage fees on domestic flights or in certain fare classes.

Some budget carriers insist on charging baggage fees to keep base fares lower.

USA

However, in the US, the situation is very different, and the era of free checked bags is truly coming to an end. Southwest Airlines, known for its two-piece free checked bag policy, will begin charging for checked bags on May 28, 2025. Only Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, Business Select customers, and airline credit card holders will continue to receive free checked bags.

In response, other carriers are adjusting their baggage policies. For example, Frontier Airlines has launched a promotion offering free checked bags for flights booked by March 24, 2025, for travel between May 28 and August 18, 2025.

In general, as of 2025, most major US airlines charge a fee for checked bags, with fees typically ranging from $35 to $40 for the first bag.

UAE

UAE airlines offer some of the most generous and convenient checked bag policies compared to US and European carriers.

Full-service airlines such as Emirates and Etihad have large baggage allowances:

- Economy passengers are typically allowed 20-35 kg;

- Business and First Class passengers are even more restricted, with 40-50 kg.

These conditions make UAE airlines popular with long-haul travelers, families, and those with a lot of luggage.

Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai offer high free checked baggage allowances. As a budget carrier, Air Arabia does not include free checked baggage in its basic fares. However, passengers can purchase checked baggage allowances at bargain prices.

How can travelers avoid checked baggage fees?

To avoid checked baggage fees, travelers can use one of the following schemes:

1. Join airline loyalty programs

Having this status often provides benefits such as free checked baggage.

2. Use airline credit cards

Many of these cards offer free checked baggage as a bonus when purchasing tickets with the card.

3. Choose premium tickets

First and business class fares often include a free checked baggage allowance.

4. Pack Light

Taking only carry-on luggage can eliminate the need to check your luggage, thus avoiding the associated fees.

So, if you are planning a trip in the near future, it is important to review the specific baggage policies of the airline you are flying with, as allowances and fees can vary. Also, be aware of any restrictions on the size and weight of your carry-on luggage to avoid unexpected charges.

As a result, the trend is increasingly shifting towards checked baggage fees around the world. Travelers in 2025 should be vigilant about checking the baggage allowance for each flight, especially as budget carriers and even some traditional airlines strive to optimize costs and maintain competitive ticket prices.

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Reminder! In 2025, Europe introduced new hand luggage rules, including restrictions on size, weight and volume of liquids. We have already told you what hand luggage rules European airlines are introducing in 2025.

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