Is It Cheaper to Book a Flight with Baggage Included or Add Extra Baggage Later?

Is It Cheaper to Book a Flight with Baggage Included or Add Extra Baggage Later?

Is It Cheaper to Book a Flight with Baggage Included or Add Extra Baggage Later?

If you’re trying to figure out whether a fare with baggage included or adding baggage later is more economical, here’s what research and airline practices reveal:

• Booking a fare that already includes checked baggage
  • For full-service airlines, this is often the most budget-friendly choice when you’re certain you'll check a bag.
  • Budget carriers’ bundled fares (which include baggage) typically cost less than a light fare plus baggage later.
• Adding baggage online around booking time or shortly afterward
  • Still cheaper than paying for baggage at the airport. Airlines often apply discounts for early online purchases.
• Waiting to purchase baggage at airport check-in
  • This is usually the most expensive route. Fees tend to spike close to departure or at the gate.
• Booking via third-party travel sites vs. directly with the airline
  • Adding baggage through third-party platforms can result in additional markups and booking complications. Booking directly is safer and often cheaper.
• Seasonal price hikes and industry trends
  • Airlines like Southwest have abandoned free baggage policies; starting May 28, 2025, they now charge $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second.
  • U.S. carriers continue to raise checked baggage fees. Delta recently raised its rates by 17%, bringing its first-bag fee to $35.

Quick Comparison Summary

• You know you'll check baggage?
  • Choose a fare that includes baggage, often the most cost-effective.
• Not sure about baggage yet?
  • Book a basic fare first, then add baggage early online if needed. It is still cheaper than airport rates.
• Waiting until airport check-in?
  • Expect to pay significantly more but avoid if possible.
• Using a travel agent or external booking platform?
  • Might cost more and present booking complications. Book directly with the airline for transparency and savings.
• Flying with U.S. carriers like Southwest or Delta?
  • Stay informed: Southwest now charges for checked bags, and many airlines have increased baggage fees in 2025.

Why Using an eSIM Is Cheaper Than Buying a SIM Card at the Airport

• In places like Singapore, physical SIM cards at airport kiosks can cost over $35, while the same budget with Eskimo eSIM lets you connect in 84 countries.
• eSIMs let you buy and activate plans online before departure. No airport queues, no physical cards, and typically lower data rates.
• Eskimo eSIM offers two-year data validity and supports data rollover.

FAQs

Is booking baggage with the flight cheaper than adding it later?

Yes. Buying baggage at the time of booking usually locks in the lowest rates.

How much more expensive is airport baggage?

It varies, but fees can easily double or rise even higher close to departure.

Should I book via a travel agency or direct with the airline?

Direct booking is safer and often cheaper. Third-party platforms may tack on extra costs and restrictions.

What’s changed for U.S. airlines in baggage fees?

Southwest now charges $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second. Delta and others have increased fees too.