Travelling with checked bags - update

As an update, the airline industry is continuing to make changes regarding checked bags, oversized carry-ons, and weight restrictions. As of May 5, Continental, Delta, Northwest, United, and US Air will al be imposing a $25 fee for a second checked bag naot exceeding 50 pounds. This fee will be each way (it doesn't cover the round trip flight.) Airtran will be adding a $10 fee for second checked bags after May 15. Spirit has a $10 fee if paid online or a $20 fee if paid at the airport. Business class tickets, first-class tickets, or frequent flyers that have achieved upper tiers with their airlines will be exempt. (Lower tier frequent flyers are not exempt.)

For those attempting to check more than 2 bags, some airlines may be imposing fees of up to $100 per extra bag each way. There are also going to be extra fees for overweight or oversized bags (varies by airline).

As the cost of gasoline is expected to be up around $4.00/gallon this summer in many areas, folks will want to be keenly aware of additional costs/fees that could impact their travel costs.

You should check with your individual airline for information regarding any fees or changes.