Most airlines these days charge fees for checking bags, which can add a significant cost to air travel. However, there are still some airlines that allow passengers to check bags for free as part of their ticket. Knowing which airlines offer free checked bags can help travelers save money.
Main U.S. Airlines Allowing 2 Free Checked Bags
Here are the major U.S. airlines that allow passengers to check 2 bags for free:
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines allows 2 free checked bags per passenger on all flights. There is no weight limit on the bags, but they must adhere to Southwest’s standard size restrictions. This generous baggage allowance makes Southwest one of the best airlines for travelers who need to check multiple bags.
JetBlue
JetBlue was one of the first airlines to introduce a free first checked bag. They allow 1 free checked bag on all routes, and on flights to/from the Caribbean they allow 2 free checked bags per passenger. The weight limit per bag is 50 lbs.
Hawaiian Airlines
On flights between Hawaii and the U.S. mainland, Hawaiian Airlines offers 2 free checked bags up to 50 lbs per bag. For international flights, they allow 1 free checked bag. This perk makes Hawaiian a great option for vacationers going to Hawaii.
Other Airlines Allowing 2 Free Checked Bags
While less common, there are a few other airlines that offer 2 free checked bags in certain cases:
Alaska Airlines
When flying first class on Alaska Airlines, passengers get 2 free checked bags. All other passengers get 1 free checked bag.
Spirit Airlines
If you purchase a Spirit Airlines membership for $59.95 per year, you get 2 free checked bags per flight. Otherwise, bags are not included.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier offers 2 free checked bags on international flights departing the U.S. On domestic flights, bags are only free for elite status members; others pay a fee.
Tips for Getting 2 Free Checked Bags
Here are some tips for getting an airline to allow 2 free checked bags:
- Book with Southwest whenever possible, as they always offer 2 free checked bags.
- When flying to Hawaii, book Hawaiian Airlines.
- Consider purchasing a Spirit Airlines membership.
- Fly in first class on Alaska Airlines.
- For international flights out of the U.S., choose Frontier Airlines.
Size and Weight Restrictions
When checking bags for free, be sure to adhere to the airline’s size and weight limits, which are typically:
- Up to 50 lbs per bag
- Up to 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
Overweight or oversized bags will incur additional fees. Some airlines offer discounts on the first checked bag fee if pre-paying online.
Conclusion
While most major airlines charge for checked baggage, travelers still have options for getting 2 free checked bags on certain airlines and routes. By booking with an airline that includes free checked bags like Southwest, JetBlue, or Hawaiian, savvy flyers can avoid checked bag fees and save money. Adhering to size and weight restrictions is important to take full advantage of the free baggage policies.