Understanding baggage policies of different U.S. airlines

Going on a long trip is a very fun and calm situation. Packing for a trip can usually be enjoyable, but the problem of what the airlines allow to be taken along can be a real mess. While some airlines offer free luggage, others impose charges for virtually all items. In an attempt to simplify matters, here’s an easy-to-follow guide to the various airlines’ baggage rules.

We are going to analyse five major carriers and their respective allowances to enable you to pack wisely and steer clear of incurring extra costs at the airport.

In this blog, we will discuss American Airlines, Delta airlines,  Volaris airlines, Southwest airlines, and Allegiant airlines baggage policies and regulations. 

Let’s take a closer look and have a comparison. 

What are the baggage allowances? 

Airlines usually allow a limited baggage allowance to passengers. For carrying more than the fare allowance, passengers have to pay extra charges. The allowances are varied based on which destination you are flying to, and also on the fare option you have chosen. 

American Airlines Baggage Allowance

American airlines baggage allowances are usually based on the fare option passengers have booked. A personal bag and a carry-on bag are included in every fare. 

An extra allowance is given to higher fare option passengers, who can also exceed the baggage allowance; they may have to pay a little extra charge. Here are some common regulations: 

• Usually, the size and weight limitations are not that strict, and you can exceed them by paying charges 

• But carry-on bag dimensions are fixed at 22x24x9; otherwise, they will be counted and charged as checked bags. 

• The personal items must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.

• For domestic destination passengers, they have to pay 

  • $30 baggage fees for the 1st checked bag 

  • and $40 for the 2nd checked bag. 

• A maximum of 50 lbs (23 kg) is the weight limit for one checked bag.

• There will be an extra fee if your bag is heavier than that.

• In some cases, international flights will have one free checked bag included in the fare, depending on the route.

• Also, those who have American Airlines credit cards or possess elite status are likely to receive the benefit of free checked bags.

Delta Baggage Allowance

Delta baggage allowance differs based on the fare option and the destination. Passengers travelling internationally get an extra allowance compared to the domestic one.

•  Every fare option gets to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item. 

• The baggage allowances are extra for the luxury classes. 

• Regulations specify 

• Carry-ons typically go into the overhead bin; most small backpacks and suitcases fit there.

• For domestic flights, the first checked bag costs $30 and the second one $40.

• Economy passengers can have their baggage weight up to 50 lbs (23 kgs) checked.

• Business class and first-class passengers can have baggage weight up to 70 lbs (32 kgs) each.

• Delta SkyMiles Medallion members and holders of Delta credit cards are sometimes given one free checked bag.

• Always verify your ticket information as baggage regulations may differ by the route or the fare type.

Volaris Baggage Policy

• Volaris is a low-budget airlines; they don't provide baggage with the ticket by default. 

• As mentioned in the Volaris baggage policy, a traveller can carry a small personal item without any charges.

• Which can be a small backpack or a purse.

• The personal item must weigh up to 22 lbs, and it should fit below the front seat. 

•  The regulations are different for different fare options:

• Basic: Only allows a personal item.

• Classic: Allows a carry-on plus a personal item.

• Plus: Usually allows one carry-on plus a checked bag.

• The cost of baggage purchased at the time of online ticket booking is less than that of baggage purchased at the airport.

• Charges fluctuate according to the flight route, time of year and the weight of your bags.

• Before your trip, always check your fare conditions to see what is covered.

Southwest Baggage Policy

• Southwest will always be remembered for the generous baggage policy of allowing each passenger to check in two bags for free.

• Also, one carry-on and one personal item are allowed free of charge.

• The maximum weight for a checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kg).

• Baggage should not exceed the total dimensions of 62 inches (length + width + height).

• An extra charge will be applicable if your baggage is beyond the allowed weight or size.

• However, they are not the worst and have the cheapest extra bag fees among other airlines.

• Although you are also allowed to switch your flight without any extra charges, which is a great benefit for families.

• This carrier is a good choice for taking home mementoes or dressing in multiple vacation clothes.

Allegiant Baggage Regulations: 

• Allegiant is another low-cost carrier that predominantly charges for baggage.

• Allegiant baggage restriction: Each traveller is entitled to one personal item free of charge, which has to fit under the seat.

• A fee will be charged for a carry-on bag, which will be stored in the overhead bin.

• The price of checked and carry-on bags is based on your travel route and the time of purchase.

• The weight limit for checked bags is 40 pounds (18 kg), and the maximum dimensions are 80 inches in total.

• You can check four bags per person, but the cost of each additional bag will be charged at a higher rate.

• The price for baggage purchased online before your flight is lower than the airport rate.

• In the end, Allegiant’s inflexible policies do help to keep ticket prices down, but it is better to plan in advance.

Quick Airline Comparison

Airline	Free Checked Bags	Carry-On Included	Weight Limit	Notes
American Airlines	None (unless premium)	1 carry-on + 1 personal item	50 lbs	$30 first bag
Delta Airlines	None (unless premium)	1 carry-on + 1 personal item	50 lbs	Credit card perks
Volaris	Depends on the fare	1 personal item only	22 lbs carry-on	Low-cost model
Southwest Airlines	2 free bags	1 carry-on + 1 personal item	50 lbs	Most generous
Allegiant Air	None	1 personal item	40 lbs checked	Fees for extras

Conclusion

Every airline has a different set of baggage rules when it comes to packing for a flight. American Airlines and Delta use traditional methods where you pay for checked bags unless you have a first-class ticket. Volaris and Allegiant manage to keep prices down by charging separately for most baggage: you only pay for what you really need. While Southwest Airlines has totally different regulations, it allows as many as two checked bags. 

Please check the baggage allowance for the bags from the ticket details or from the official website. By knowing the limits, passengers can pack efficiently and avoid long lines and extra charges. With a little prior preparation, passengers can avoid last-minute flight hassles.