Let’s get real: airline fees are the ex who just won’t stop texting. American Airlines is the latest to slide into your DMs with a “surprise” fee hike, because apparently $50 for a first checked bag isn’t high enough. Yep, they’ve jacked up first and second bags by $10 each, and if you’re bringing a third suitcase (we see you, overpackers), that’ll be $200 — a $50 increase. The silver lining? Prepaying online saves you $5 per bag, which is basically the airline version of “here’s a participation trophy.”
But wait — there’s more! Southwest, once the darling of free checked bags (RIP), is joining the party. Starting April 9, first and second checked bags will cost $10 more for bookings made on or after that date. Pro tip: If you’ve been eyeing a Southwest flight, book before April 9th to lock in the current fees. Your future self will thank you when you’re not shelling out extra cash for that third pair of shoes you “needed.”
Why This Matters (And What You Should Do)
Let’s break it down: These hikes aren’t just annoying — they’re strategic. Airlines know bag fees fly under the radar compared to fuel surcharges, especially since elites and cardholders (like those with the Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card) still get free checked bags. For everyone else, it’s a slow bleed. If you’re flying American, prepaying bags is the only way to soften the blow. For Southwest, set a calendar reminder for April 8th — book your trip before the clock strikes midnight on the old pricing.
Still, this isn’t the end of the world. A $10 increase on a Southwest flight is the difference between a $15 lunch and a $25 dinner. But if you’re checking two bags round-trip, that’s $40 extra — enough to buy a decent carry-on. Moral of the story? Plan ahead, prepay if you can, and maybe start practicing that “pack light” mantra you’ve been avoiding.
