TPG Talks JetBlue, Airline Fees and More on ABC News
This week, JetBlue announced that it would be adding baggage fees for checked luggage. Travelers can expect to shell out $20 for bags paid for online, and $25 for bags paid for at the airport ticket counter. The new fees are a part of JetBlue's three-tier pricing system, which provides one or two bags with each ticket (as well as some other benefits) depending on the level. The new fees will only be applied to tickets purchased on or after June 30, so existing travel plans will be unaffected.
JetBlue Mint (business class) and JetBlue Mosaic (elite) passengers will still get two free bags with tickets, and select longer routes to the Caribbean and South America will still include a free checked bag with all fares. All domestic flights will no longer include a free bag.
The Points Guy appeared on ABC's World News Tonight to discuss the new fees and how travelers can avoid excess charges when booking with JetBlue (or any other airline).
The Points Guy's top tips for saving on baggage:
- Be aware of and prepared for hidden fees.
- Pay for your bag in advance — pre-paying online at home is often cheaper.
- Check your credit card benefits for fee waivers and refunds for airline purchases.
What other airlines are charging:
| American | Delta | United | JetBlue | Southwest | Frontier | Spirit | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-on Baggage | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free | $30 | $26 online, $100 at gate |
| Checked Baggage (1st/2nd) | $25/$35 | $25/$35 | $25/$35 | $20 online, $25 at counter/$35 | Free | $20+/$30+ | $21+/$31+ |
| Credit Card Baggage Waivers | One | One | One, two for United Club card | None | N/A | None | None |
| Seat Assignment | Free | Free | Free | Free | N/A | $4+ | $1-$50 |
| Priority Boarding | $15-$40 | $15 | $9+ | $10-$15 | $40 | Classic Plus fares | $5.99 |
| Wi-Fi | Price varies | Price varies | Price varies | Free | $8 | N/A | N/A |
| Phone Booking | $25 | $50 | $25 | $25 | Free | $10 | $15 |
| In-Cabin Pets | $125 | $125 | $125 | $100 | $95 | $75 | $110 |
| Domestic Change Fee | $200 | $200 | $200 | Up to $150 | Free | $99 | Up to $120 |
For more on saving on airline fees, check out some of our other posts:
Best Ways to Avoid Airline Change and Cancellation Fees
How to Avoid Checked Baggage Fees on Major Domestic Carriers
9 Tips to Save on Baggage Fees
