Free checked bag credit card

Say goodbye to dreading those extra fees when checking your bags for a flight! Nobody likes the checked baggage fees of domestic flights; however, that has become a part of life now.

But there’s good news: you can bypass these charges and enjoy a stress-free journey.

While the option to travel light with just a carry-on is always there, it might not suit everyone.

Fortunately, certain credit cards come to the rescue, offering free checked bags as a valuable perk.

Many of these cards are affiliated with specific airlines, so choosing the one aligned with your frequent travel choices can save you from hefty baggage fees.

Gone are the days when checked bags were a standard inclusion in your airfare.

Learn about the best free checked bag credit cards that make your baggage fees disappear in our comprehensive guide.

While these cards often come with annual fees, the benefits they provide can easily outweigh the costs and make your trip more convenient.

Which airline has free checked bags?

When it comes to airlines, free checked bags can be a game-changer for travelers who prefer to pack more than just the essentials.

However, most carriers impose fees for checked baggage, making it essential to explore options for a more economical journey.

Southwest Airlines stands out as the sole domestic airline that refrains from imposing checked bag fees on all passengers, regardless of elite status or fare type.

With an attractive policy, Southwest lets each traveler check two bags, each weighing up to 50 pounds, without incurring any fees, making it a favorable choice for budget-conscious travelers on every flight.

While some other airlines may provide free checked bags on specific routes or for certain fare classes, Southwest’s transparent pricing and minimal fees make it a preferred choice for those seeking cost-effective travel.

For frequent flyers who value luggage freedom, Southwest Airlines emerges as a standout option in the competitive aviation landscape.

Airline	First Checked Bag Fee
Southwest Airlines	$0
Alaska Airlines	$30
American Airlines	$30
Delta	$30
Hawaiian	$30
JetBlue	$35
United	$35

How to avoid checked bag fees?

In the quest for budget-friendly flights, overlooking baggage fees can lead to unexpected costs.

However, with the right strategies, you can avoid these charges and travel more economically.

With the following tips, you can ensure a more economical trip.

Know the Fees
Research baggage fees before booking, as they vary by airline and route. Southwest Airlines provides ultimate travel savings with two free checked bags.
Use the Right Credit Card
Certain airline credit cards provide a free first-checked bag for cardholders.

For example- Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card offers this perk for up to nine people on a reservation.
Book First or Business Class
Higher-class tickets may include free checked bags, potentially making them more cost-effective, especially for multiple bags.
Get Elite Status
Airlines often grant free checked bags to frequent flier program members with elite status.

Some credit cards, like the World of Hyatt Credit Card, offer automatic elite status with partner airlines.
Military Discounts
Many airlines offer free checked bags for military members and their dependents.

JetBlue, for instance, allows active-duty military personnel and dependents two free bags each for leisure travel.
Pack Light
Stick to carry-ons; most airlines allow one free carry-on and one personal item. Confirm dimensions to avoid unexpected fees.

6 Best Free Checked Bag Credit Cards

You should take care of a few things to make the most of your credit card’s free checked bag benefit without overlooking potential savings.

To access the free checked bag benefit with most cards, simply link your frequent flyer number to your reservation.

However, some airlines like Alaska and United require using the airline credit card for ticket purchases.

Contrary to popular belief, having a credit card with free checked bag benefits does not mean you get an extra free checked bag.

If you already have a free checked bag due to elite status, class of service, or overseas travel, having a credit card with this benefit won’t grant you an additional free bag.

Some airlines may have exceptions, so check your airline’s policy regarding second bags.

Unlock travel perks and save on checked bag fees with the top 6 Free Checked Bag Credit Cards.

These cards offer excellent rewards and enhance your overall travel experience.

From bonus miles to exclusive perks, these credit cards are tailored for savvy travelers who want to make the most of their journeys.

Say goodbye to unnecessary expenses and hello to worry-free travel with these top picks.

Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card
The Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold Card stands out as one of the best free checked bag credit cards due to its exclusive benefits for Delta Air Lines travelers.

Cardholders enjoy a complimentary first checked bag, saving up to $60 per round trip, making it a valuable perk for frequent flyers.

With no annual fee in the first year (then $99), it provides 2x miles on dining, groceries, and Delta purchases.

Additionally, this Delta Gold card offers travel insurance benefits, a $100 Delta Flight Credit, priority boarding, and no foreign transaction fees.
United Explorer Credit Card
The Chase United Explorer Card is a top choice for those seeking a free checked bag benefit.

Cardholders and one of their companions on the same flight receive their first checked bag free, potentially saving up to $140 per round trip.

Beyond this perk, the card offers 2x miles on United purchases, hotels, and dining, two United Club one-time passes annually, priority boarding, and travel credits.

With these features and just a $95 annual fee (waived for the first year), it’s an excellent choice for United Airlines enthusiasts.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card
The Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus is renowned for its exceptional free checked bag benefit, allowing cardholders to enjoy free first and second-checked bags on flights.

It translates to substantial savings for frequent Southwest Airlines travelers.

The card further enhances its appeal with a generous sign-up bonus, accelerated 2x Rapid Rewards points on Southwest purchases, hotel & car rental partners, local transit, and more, 3,000-anniversary points, and no blackout dates or seat restrictions.

You also get valuable travel protections and flexible redemption with just a $69 annual fee.
Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard
The Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select card shines as a premier free checked bag credit card for American Airlines loyalists.

Cardholders and up to four companions on the same reservation receive their first checked bag free, offering substantial savings.

Beyond this, with an annual fee of $99 (waived for the first year), the card features accelerated 2x AAdvantage miles at restaurants, gas stations, and eligible American Airlines purchases, a generous welcome bonus, preferred boarding, and a 25% discount on in-flight purchases.

These benefits make it a standout choice for those frequently flying with American Airlines.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card
The Chase Southwest Priority Credit Card is a standout option for travelers seeking a free checked bag benefit and additional perks with Southwest Airlines.

Cardholders and their travel companions enjoy the first two checked bags free, providing significant value.

The card further distinguishes itself with an annual travel credit, upgraded boarding, no foreign transaction fees, and anniversary bonus points.

You also earn 3x points on Southwest purchases and 2x on local transit, hotel & car rental partners, internet, etc.

With its comprehensive set of benefits, this card caters to the needs of dedicated Southwest Airlines passengers.
JetBlue Plus Credit Card
The JetBlue Plus Card earns its reputation as one of the best free checked bag credit cards, offering cardholders and up to three companions on the same reservation their first checked bag free.

This Barclays-issued card is an excellent choice for JetBlue loyalists.

With only a $99 annual fee, the card provides 6x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x on restaurants and grocery stores, and a generous sign-up bonus.

It also offers a 10% points rebate on redemptions, no foreign transaction fees, and 50% savings on eligible inflight purchases, making it a compelling choice for JetBlue enthusiasts.

Credit card	Uthrive rating	Intro offer	Rewards rate	Annual fee	Learn more
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.1/5 A valuable option for travelers who want to enjoy the perks of Delta SkyMiles	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1x - 2x Miles	Annual Fees annual_fees	View how to apply
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.2/5 Exciting Card for United Airlines travelers	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1X - 2X miles per $1	Annual Fees annual_fees	Tell me more
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.5/5 Southwest Rewards Card for Beginners	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1X - 2X Points	Annual Fees annual_fees	Tell me more
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.6/5 Good choice for people who are after airline miles.	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1x-2x Miles	Annual Fees annual_fees	Tell me more
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.6/5 3X Southwest Rewards with $75 Credit	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1X - 3X points	Annual Fees annual_fees	View how to apply

Final Takeaway

You can unlock significant savings on your air travel with the complimentary checked bags provided by these credit cards.

If you’re a frequent traveler with luggage, it might be beneficial to enroll in one or more travel credit cards, especially if you are loyal to specific airlines.

Notably, the airline cards featured here, offering complimentary checked bags, often come with annual fees under $100.

The bonus miles from the welcome offer enhance your savings, eliminating the need for hefty luggage fees with each flight.

Numerous airlines offer co-branded credit cards, many featuring the valuable benefit of a free first-checked bag.

When selecting a travel card, evaluate your preferences, including your preferred airport, frequent airlines, and the importance of perks like lounge access.

Opting for a card with free baggage is a reliable method to cut costs on your upcoming travels.

Make sure the credit card aligns with your preferences and travel habits before making a decision.