One of the side effects of war may be the need to “travel lighter.” The increase in baggage and airline ticket costs is directly related to the rise in jet fuel prices, driven by geopolitical tensions. For this reason, many airlines – especially low-cost ones – may increase their carry-on and checked baggage fees to offset fuel costs.
Among the companies that have already started raising prices is United Airlines. This week it became the second company to increase baggage fees, justifying the decision by increasing fuel prices due to the war in Iran. According to the company's announcement, passengers flying within the US, as well as to Mexico, Canada and Latin America will pay $ 10 more for the first and second checked bag, while the fee for the third bag will increase by $ 50. This increase excludes passengers in premium cabins, customers with "elite" status and those using the company's credit cards.
The trend was started in late March by JetBlue, which also increased its baggage fees. The price for a first bag on flights within the US has increased by $4, and in some cases reaches up to $59, depending on the date of travel and the moment of payment.
The company stressed that the changes are related to rising operating costs. “We regularly evaluate how to manage these costs while keeping base rates competitive and continuing to invest in the customer experience,” it said in a statement.
Meanwhile, travel experts advise passengers to always check the dimensions of their hand luggage according to the airline's rules to avoid additional fees at the airport. To save space in your suitcase, it is recommended to use organizers or "compression cubes", which separate clothes by category and significantly reduce the volume of your luggage.
