U.S. airlines have raised checked baggage fees by approximately $10 following the war in Iran, which has driven up jet fuel prices and operating costs. Major carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines now charge $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second.

Travelers can avoid these fees through several strategies. Premium cabin passengers and active military personnel typically receive free baggage allowances. Credit cards offering airline fee credits provide another option - cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve ($795 annual fee) include $300 travel credits that can offset baggage costs. Airline-specific cobranded cards often include free checked bags as a benefit.

Loyalty programs remain the most reliable way to avoid baggage fees, with elite status members receiving anywhere from one to three free checked bags depending on their tier. However, airlines now charge an additional $5 for bags paid for less than 24 hours before departure, making advance planning essential. The fee increases reflect broader industry cost pressures as airlines adjust to higher fuel expenses in a volatile geopolitical environment.