Scott Olson/Getty Images
- United Airlines raised its baggage fees over the weekend.
- The airline told passengers to expect a $5 increase for checked bags.
- It joins JetBlue, American Airlines, and more in raising price of checked bags.
It might be time to start traveling lighter because another major airline is upping the price for checked bags.
United Airlines announced Friday that any economy-class passengers on domestic flights who booked tickets after that date will pay $5 more "in most markets."
Using the airline's bag fee calculator, Business Insider found that the fee for a bag flying from New York City to Houston would be $40.
For a second bag, the price rose from $45 if paid in advance online or $50 at the airport.
It's not the first major airline to raise its baggage fees in 2024. Days before United's announcement, American Airlines raised its first and second checked bags to $40 and $45, respectively.
And earlier this year, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines also moved to charge travelers more for their checked bags.
Alaska Airlines passengers who booked after January 2 saw a $5 bump for their first two bags. For JetBlue, it's a $10 increase for a bag checked within 24 hours of departure.
Baggage fees have proved lucrative for airlines over the years. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported that airlines made nearly $5.5 billion in bag fees during the first nine months of 2023.
Frequent travelers may consider investing in a dependable carry-on bag if they hope to avoid the extra cost of checked bags.
Are you a current or recent employee at a major airline? Reach out to this reporter via email at jhart@businessinsider.com with any tips.