Yes, there are several legitimate strategies to avoid carry-on bag fees on budget airlines. First, all U.S. airlines must allow one personal item for free (like a purse, small backpack, or laptop bag). To maximize this allowance, use a personal item that approaches the maximum dimensions allowed—typically around 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Some travelers use specialized “under-seat” bags designed to maximize this space while still fitting under the seat. Additionally, wearing multiple layers of clothing and using jacket pockets can free up considerable bag space. For items you need at your destination but not during travel, consider shipping them ahead if staying in one location for an extended period. Finally, some airline credit cards and fare bundles include carry-on bags, which might be worth the cost if you’d otherwise pay for a carry-on.

Overweight baggage fees can be substantial—often $75-200 per bag—but are entirely avoidable with proper planning. First, always weigh your bags before heading to the airport using a luggage scale (inexpensive and widely available). If you’re slightly over, consider moving heavier items to your carry-on (if within carry-on weight limits) or wearing your heaviest clothing items during travel. For significant overages, it’s almost always cheaper to use two lighter bags than one overweight bag. Some travelers distribute weight among travel companions’ bags if someone has space under the weight limit. When buying souvenirs or accumulating items during travel, consider shipping them home separately rather than adding weight to your return luggage. Finally, research baggage weight allowances for different booking classes, as premium economy, business, and first class typically offer higher weight limits (often 70 lbs versus the standard 50 lbs).

Yes, baggage fees can be refundable in certain situations, though policies vary by airline. Most major airlines will refund baggage fees if they lose your luggage or deliver it significantly late (typically more than 24 hours). Some airlines also refund fees if your flight is canceled and you do not take an alternative flight with that carrier. If you’re bumped from a flight due to overbooking and take a later flight, you’re generally entitled to a refund of any baggage fees. Military personnel traveling on orders can usually get baggage fees refunded with proper documentation. Additionally, if you paid for baggage but then qualified for a fee waiver (for example, by being upgraded to a cabin class with free baggage), you can typically request a refund. The key is to keep your receipts and request refunds promptly, usually within 30 days of the incident.

When luggage exceeds size limitations (typically 62 linear inches—length + width + height—for checked bags), airlines apply oversized baggage fees ranging from $75 to $200 per bag. For significantly oversized items exceeding 80 linear inches, some airlines may refuse to accept them as regular baggage, requiring them to be shipped as cargo instead. If your carry-on exceeds size limitations, you’ll likely be required to check it at the gate, often incurring both a checked bag fee and potentially a gate-checking surcharge. To avoid these fees, measure your luggage carefully before your trip. If purchasing new luggage, look for bags that specifically state their dimensions comply with airline size restrictions. For awkwardly shaped items like sporting equipment, consider specialized travel bags designed to meet airline requirements. Some airlines have sizing boxes at check-in; if your bag doesn’t fit, you’ll be charged regardless of the stated dimensions.

International baggage allowances are typically more generous than domestic allowances, though exact policies vary significantly by destination, airline, and fare class. Most international flights include at least one free checked bag (usually 50 lbs/23 kg) even in economy class, while domestic flights often charge $30-60 for the first checked bag. For premium cabins (business and first class), international allowances commonly include 2-3 checked bags at 70 lbs (32 kg) each. Weight is particularly important for international travel, as overweight fees on international routes tend to be higher than domestic ones. Many international carriers also use a “weight concept” system rather than piece concept, allowing passengers a total weight allowance rather than a specific number of bags. Flights to certain regions have unique requirements—for example, flights to Africa often permit two free checked bags in all classes, while flights to and within Asia may have stricter weight enforcement. Connecting flights between different airlines, especially between U.S. and international carriers, can create complications when baggage allowances don’t match.