Unlocking the Skies: How to Get Free Checked Bags with Credit Cards
Traveling can be an adventure, but the fees associated with it can sometimes feel like a hurdle. One of the most common and often frustrating travel expenses is the checked bag fee. Fortunately, for savvy travelers, several credit cards offer the coveted perk of free checked bags. This article will dive deep into what credit cards can help you avoid those pesky baggage charges, allowing you to pack more and stress less.
Why Are Checked Bag Fees So Common?
Airlines introduced checked bag fees primarily to increase revenue. As the cost of operations, fuel, and labor continues to rise, airlines have found creative ways to monetize services that were once included in the ticket price. Checked bag fees, especially for domestic flights, have become a significant income stream for many carriers. While some airlines have different policies for international travel, domestic flights are where you're most likely to encounter these charges.
The Best Credit Cards for Free Checked Bags
The key to getting free checked bags often lies with airline co-branded credit cards. These cards are issued in partnership with specific airlines and typically offer a suite of benefits designed to reward loyal customers. Here are some of the top contenders and what they offer:
American Airlines Co-Branded Cards (e.g., Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®)
If you frequently fly with American Airlines, their co-branded cards are an excellent choice. Typically, these cards offer:
- First checked bag free for the primary cardmember and up to eight companions on the same reservation. This is a substantial benefit, especially for families or groups traveling together.
- Priority boarding. While not directly related to checked bags, it's a nice perk that comes with many of these cards, allowing you to get settled in your seat sooner.
- In-flight savings on food and beverages. Some cards offer a statement credit for purchases made on American Airlines flights.
- AAdvantage miles on every purchase. Earn miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel rewards.
Delta Air Lines Co-Branded Cards (e.g., Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card)
For Delta loyalists, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and other similar Delta co-branded cards provide significant value:
- First checked bag free for the primary cardmember and up to eight companions on the same reservation on Delta flights. This benefit is a cornerstone of Delta's co-branded card offerings.
- Priority boarding. Similar to American Airlines cards, you'll likely get Zone 1 boarding or better.
- 20% back on in-flight purchases of food and beverages. This comes in the form of a statement credit.
- Earn Delta SkyMiles on every purchase. Accumulate miles for future travel with Delta and its partners.
United Airlines Co-Branded Cards (e.g., United Explorer Card)
United Airlines also offers a range of co-branded credit cards. The United Explorer Card is a popular option that includes:
- First checked bag free for the primary cardmember and one companion on the same reservation on United flights. Note that this benefit typically applies to one companion, unlike some other airlines that extend it to more.
- Priority boarding. You'll generally receive Premier Access boarding.
- 25% back on in-flight purchases of food, beverages, and Wi-Fi. This is a valuable statement credit for frequent flyers.
- Earn United MileagePlus miles on every purchase. Gather miles for flights and other redemptions.
Southwest Airlines Co-Branded Cards (e.g., Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card)
Southwest Airlines has a unique selling proposition: they allow two checked bags to be free for everyone, regardless of credit card ownership. However, their co-branded credit cards still offer valuable perks for those who fly Southwest regularly:
- No foreign transaction fees. Ideal for those who travel internationally with Southwest.
- Receive 3,000 bonus Rapid Rewards points each year on your account anniversary. This is a nice annual bonus that adds up.
- Earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points on every purchase. Use these points for flights on Southwest.
- Wanna Get Away Plus™ status (on select cards). This can offer benefits like the ability to transfer unused flights.
While the free checked bags are a standard Southwest policy, their credit cards enhance the overall value for frequent flyers, especially with the bonus points and potential status benefits.
Important Considerations When Choosing a Card
Before applying for any credit card, it's crucial to consider a few factors:
- Annual Fee: Most airline co-branded cards come with an annual fee. Evaluate whether the benefits, especially the free checked bags, outweigh the cost of the fee for your travel habits.
- Spending Habits: Choose a card that aligns with your spending. If you spend a lot on travel or everyday purchases, you'll want a card that offers good rewards rates for those categories.
- Airline Loyalty: The best card for free checked bags will depend on which airline you fly most often. If you split your travel between multiple carriers, a general travel rewards card might be more suitable, though these typically don't offer free checked bags as a specific perk.
- Credit Score: Be aware that these cards often require a good to excellent credit score for approval.
Are There Any Non-Airline Specific Cards?
Generally, credit cards that offer free checked bags are airline co-branded. General travel rewards credit cards often provide benefits like travel credits, airport lounge access, or statement credits for travel purchases, but the specific perk of a free checked bag on any airline is rare. Your best bet for this particular benefit is to stick with cards tied to specific airlines.
Making the Most of Your Free Checked Bag Benefit
Once you have a card that offers free checked bags, remember these tips:
- Ensure the cardholder is the primary passenger or traveling on the same reservation. The benefit typically applies to the primary cardholder and a certain number of companions on the same booking.
- Check the airline's specific baggage policies. While the card waives the fee, weight and size restrictions still apply. Exceeding these can incur extra charges.
- Present your card at check-in or have your frequent flyer number linked to your reservation. Sometimes, the benefit is automatically applied if your frequent flyer number is associated with the airline and linked to your credit card.
FAQ Section
How do I ensure my free checked bag benefit is applied?
Typically, your free checked bag benefit will be automatically applied when you book your flight using your co-branded airline credit card and have your frequent flyer number associated with that airline linked to your reservation. At check-in, the system should recognize your status and the associated card. It's always a good idea to double-check your booking details or confirm with the airline if you're unsure.
Why do some cards offer free checked bags for more companions than others?
Airlines structure their co-branded card benefits to incentivize loyalty and encourage higher spending. Offering free checked bags for more companions on certain cards (often the mid-tier or premium options) is a way to provide greater value and appeal to travelers who fly in groups or with family, making that particular card a more attractive choice over competitors.
Can I get free checked bags if I don't have the airline's co-branded credit card?
In most cases, no. While Southwest Airlines is a notable exception where everyone gets two free checked bags, for other major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, and United, the free checked bag benefit is primarily a perk offered through their specific co-branded credit cards. Elite status with an airline or flying in certain premium cabin classes might also grant free checked bags, but credit cards are the most accessible route for the average traveler.
What happens if I use a different credit card to book my flight, even if I have the airline's co-branded card?
If you use a different credit card to book your flight, you will likely not receive the free checked bag benefit, even if you possess the airline's co-branded card. The benefit is typically tied to the purchase of the ticket using the specific co-branded card that offers this perk. Make sure to book your flights with the eligible card to enjoy the savings.
