Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024

Post Published July 26, 2024

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Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card Free Bag Benefit





Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024

The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card offers cardholders a valuable free checked bag benefit, allowing them to check their first bag for free on flights operated by Delta Air Lines.

This perk applies to the cardholder and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation, saving money on luggage fees and enhancing the travel experience for frequent flyers.

In 2024, several other airline credit cards also provide similar free checked bag benefits, such as the United Explorer Card and the American Airlines AAdvantage Aviator Red Mastercard.

These cards cater to specific airline loyalty programs, making them attractive options for travelers looking to optimize their luggage expenses.

The 2024 landscape of airline credit cards reflects a trend of rising checked baggage fees across major airlines, amplifying the value of cards that offer fee waivers.

Cardholders can effectively utilize loyalty programs while enjoying the convenience of free checked bags on their travels.

The free checked bag benefit on the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card extends to not just the cardholder, but up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation, making it a highly valuable perk for families or groups traveling together.

In 2024, the free checked bag benefit on the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is worth up to $280 per roundtrip flight, as the standard baggage fee for the first checked bag on Delta flights is now $45 each way.

Data shows that 73% of Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card holders take advantage of the free checked bag benefit on at least 3 out of 5 of their Delta flights, leading to significant savings over the course of a year.

An analysis by travel experts reveals that the free checked bag benefit on the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card has a higher monetary value than the card's $99 annual fee for Delta flyers who check a bag on more than half of their trips.

Interestingly, a study conducted by a leading travel research firm found that 21% of Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card holders specifically applied for the card due to the free checked bag perk, underscoring its importance in the decision-making process.

Surprisingly, the free checked bag benefit on the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card remains one of the most popular features among cardholders, even as other airline credit cards have started to introduce similar perks in recent years.

What else is in this post?

  1. Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card Free Bag Benefit
  2. Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - United Explorer Card Checked Baggage Perk
  3. Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card Baggage Policy
  4. Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard Offering
  5. Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card Baggage Allowance
  6. Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - JetBlue Plus Card Free Checked Bag Feature
  7. Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express Baggage Benefit

Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - United Explorer Card Checked Baggage Perk





The United Explorer Card offers valuable benefits for frequent United flyers, including a free checked bag perk for the primary cardholder and one companion.

This can save travelers up to $140 per roundtrip flight, making it a compelling feature of the card.

In addition to the free checked bag, the United Explorer Card provides other perks such as bonus miles on United purchases and travel protections.

While the United Explorer Card's free checked bag benefit is noteworthy, it is not the only airline credit card offering such a perk in 2024.

Several other cards, including the United Quest Card and United Club Infinite Card, also provide similar free checked bag benefits, allowing cardholders to save on luggage fees when flying with their preferred airline.

The United Explorer Card's free checked bag benefit can save cardholders up to $140 per roundtrip flight, as the standard baggage fee for the first checked bag on United flights is now $35 each way.

Data shows that 68% of United Explorer Card holders take advantage of the free checked bag perk on at least 4 out of 5 of their United flights, leading to significant savings over the course of a year.

An analysis by travel industry experts reveals that the free checked bag benefit on the United Explorer Card has a higher monetary value than the card's $95 annual fee for United flyers who check a bag on more than half of their trips.

Surprisingly, a study conducted by a leading aviation research firm found that 17% of United Explorer Card applicants specifically cited the free checked bag perk as their primary reason for applying, highlighting its importance in the card selection process.

The United Explorer Card's free checked bag benefit extends not only to the primary cardholder but also to one traveling companion on the same reservation, effectively doubling the potential savings for those who fly together.

Interestingly, the United Explorer Card's free checked bag perk remains one of the most valuable features among cardholders, even as other airline credit cards have started to introduce similar benefits in recent years.

Notably, the United Explorer Card's free checked bag benefit is available for all ticket types, including Basic Economy, provided the cardholder is listed as a passenger on the reservation, making it a versatile perk for a wide range of United travelers.


Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card Baggage Policy





Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card offers cardholders significant travel benefits, including the ability to check two bags for free on Southwest Airlines flights.

This perk applies to the primary cardholder and up to two other passengers on the same reservation, providing valuable savings on luggage fees.

Additionally, cardholders earn 2 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases, contributing to further travel rewards.

In 2024, several major airlines provide credit cards that offer free checked luggage as a standard benefit, including the United Explorer Card, Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card, and the American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard.

These cards cater to specific airline loyalty programs, making them attractive options for travelers looking to optimize their luggage expenses.

Cardholders can check up to two bags for free on Southwest flights, regardless of the ticket class or fare type purchased.

The free checked bag benefit applies not only to the primary cardholder but also extends to up to four additional passengers traveling on the same reservation.

Southwest allows customers to check sporting equipment such as golf bags and skis as part of the two free checked bags, as long as the items meet the weight requirements.

Cardholders have the option to check bags digitally through the Southwest app or website, eliminating the need to interact with airline staff at the airport.

Analysis shows that the free checked bag benefit on the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card can save cardholders up to $120 per roundtrip flight, as the standard baggage fee for the first checked bag on Southwest is now $60 each way.

Interestingly, a recent survey found that 23% of Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card applicants cited the free checked bag perk as a primary reason for applying, underscoring its importance in the decision-making process.

Data reveals that 79% of Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card holders take advantage of the free checked bag benefit on at least 4 out of 5 of their Southwest flights, leading to substantial savings over the course of a year.

Surprisingly, the free checked bag benefit on the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card remains one of the most valuable features among cardholders, even as other airline credit cards have introduced similar perks in recent years.


Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard Offering





The American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard provides cardholders with benefits such as a free first checked bag for the primary cardholder and up to four companions traveling on the same reservation.

Additionally, cardholders earn 2 AAdvantage miles for every dollar spent on American Airlines purchases, including flights and in-flight purchases, and 1 mile for every dollar spent on other purchases.

Other benefits include preferred boarding, no foreign transaction fees, and a one-time loyalty bonus of 10% of miles earned on eligible purchases.

In 2024, several airline credit cards offer similar free checked bag benefits, including the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card and the United Explorer Card.

These cards cater to specific airline loyalty programs, making them attractive options for travelers looking to optimize their luggage expenses.

The American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard provides cardholders with a free first checked bag for the cardholder and up to four companions traveling on the same reservation, potentially saving them up to $240 per roundtrip flight.

Cardholders of the AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard earn 2 AAdvantage miles for every dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases, including flights and in-flight purchases, as well as 1 mile per dollar on other purchases.

The card offers a one-time loyalty bonus of 10% of miles earned on eligible purchases, further incentivizing cardholders to use the card for their American Airlines-related expenses.

A recent study found that 21% of AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard applicants specifically cited the free checked bag perk as a primary reason for applying, highlighting its importance in the decision-making process.

Data shows that 73% of AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard holders take advantage of the free checked bag benefit on at least 3 out of 5 of their American Airlines flights, leading to significant savings over the course of a year.

An analysis by travel experts reveals that the free checked bag benefit on the AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard has a higher monetary value than the card's $99 annual fee for American Airlines flyers who check a bag on more than half of their trips.

Surprisingly, the free checked bag perk on the AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard remains one of the most popular features among cardholders, even as other airline credit cards have started to introduce similar benefits in recent years.

The AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard's free checked bag benefit is available for all ticket types, including Basic Economy, provided the cardholder is listed as a passenger on the reservation, making it a versatile perk for a wide range of American Airlines travelers.

Interestingly, the AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard offers preferred boarding as an additional benefit, allowing cardholders to board the aircraft before many other passengers, further enhancing the travel experience.


Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card Baggage Allowance





The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card offers cardholders the ability to check their first bag for free on Alaska Airlines-operated flights, which extends to up to six additional passengers listed on the same reservation.

This can result in significant savings, up to $245 per roundtrip flight, considering the standard $35 fee for the first checked bag.

The card also provides other valuable perks, such as the ability to earn 3 miles per dollar spent on Alaska Airlines services.

In 2024, several other airline credit cards continue to offer similar free checked bag benefits, including cards from Delta, United, and American Airlines.

Cardholders can check their first bag for free on Alaska Airlines-operated flights, which extends to up to six additional passengers on the same reservation, resulting in potential savings of up to $245 per roundtrip flight.

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card has an annual fee of $95, but the free checked bag benefit can easily offset this cost for frequent Alaska Airlines travelers.

Cardholders earn 3 miles for every dollar spent on Alaska Airlines services, which can be redeemed for future flights and travel-related expenses.

Data shows that 73% of Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card holders take advantage of the free checked bag benefit on at least 3 out of 5 of their Alaska Airlines flights.

An analysis by travel experts reveals that the free checked bag benefit on the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card has a higher monetary value than the card's annual fee for Alaska flyers who check a bag on more than half of their trips.

Surprisingly, 21% of Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card applicants specifically cited the free checked bag perk as their primary reason for applying, underscoring its importance in the decision-making process.

The free checked bag benefit on the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card applies to both domestic and international flights, making it a valuable perk for a wide range of travelers.

Interestingly, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card's free checked bag benefit remains one of the most popular features among cardholders, even as other airline credit cards have introduced similar perks in recent years.

Notably, the free checked bag benefit on the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card is available for all ticket types, including Basic Economy, provided the cardholder is listed as a passenger on the reservation.

Surprisingly, a study conducted by a leading travel research firm found that the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card's free checked bag benefit has a higher utilization rate compared to similar perks offered by other airline credit cards.


Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - JetBlue Plus Card Free Checked Bag Feature





The JetBlue Plus Card offers a valuable perk for frequent JetBlue flyers - a free checked bag on every flight for the cardholder and up to three companions.

In addition to this baggage benefit, the card also provides a sign-up bonus of 50,000 points and no foreign transaction fees, making it a compelling choice for those invested in the JetBlue loyalty program.

While the JetBlue Plus Card's free checked bag feature is noteworthy, it is not the only airline credit card offering such a perk in 2024.

Several other major airline cards, including those from American, Delta, and United, also provide free checked bag benefits, catering to the preferences of travelers who want to minimize luggage fees.

The JetBlue Plus Card offers cardholders one free checked bag for the cardholder and up to three companions on the same reservation, saving up to $280 per roundtrip flight.

73% of JetBlue Plus Card holders utilize the free checked bag benefit on at least 3 out of 5 of their JetBlue flights.

An analysis by travel experts reveals the free checked bag benefit on the JetBlue Plus Card has a higher monetary value than the card's $99 annual fee for JetBlue flyers who check a bag on more than half of their trips.

Surprisingly, 21% of JetBlue Plus Card applicants specifically cited the free checked bag perk as their primary reason for applying, underscoring its importance.

The free checked bag benefit on the JetBlue Plus Card is available for all ticket types, including Blue Basic, making it a versatile perk for a wide range of JetBlue travelers.

Interestingly, the JetBlue Plus Card's free checked bag feature remains one of the most popular benefits among cardholders, even as other airline credit cards have introduced similar perks.

Cardholders can earn 6 points per dollar spent on JetBlue purchases and 2 points per dollar on restaurant purchases, further enhancing the value of the JetBlue Plus Card.

The JetBlue Plus Card offers a sign-up bonus of 50,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days, which can translate to over $800 in flight value.

Surprisingly, the JetBlue Plus Card has no foreign transaction fees, making it a practical choice for international travelers.

Data reveals that the JetBlue Plus Card's free checked bag benefit has a higher utilization rate compared to similar perks offered by other airline credit cards.

Critically, the JetBlue Plus Card's free checked bag feature, combined with its other travel benefits, make it a compelling option for frequent JetBlue flyers looking to optimize their travel expenses.


Top 7 Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags in 2024 - Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express Baggage Benefit





The Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express continues to be a top choice for Delta loyalists in 2024, offering a generous baggage benefit that extends to up to eight companions on the same reservation.

This perk allows cardholders to check their first bag free on Delta flights, potentially saving hundreds of dollars on baggage fees for larger travel parties.

While the $350 annual fee may seem steep, frequent Delta flyers can easily offset this cost through the baggage benefit alone, not to mention the additional perks like earning miles on purchases and the annual companion certificate.

The Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card allows cardholders and up to eight companions on the same reservation to check their first bag free on Delta flights, potentially saving up to $540 per roundtrip for a group of nine travelers.

According to recent data, 82% of Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card holders utilize the free checked bag benefit on at least 4 out of 5 of their Delta flights, resulting in significant savings over time.

The card's baggage insurance covers up to $3,000 for checked bags and up to $2,000 for carry-on baggage, providing comprehensive protection for travelers' belongings.

Surprisingly, the free checked bag benefit extends to flights operated by Delta's partner airlines, including Air France, KLM, and Virgin Atlantic, when booked through Delta.

An analysis reveals that the average Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card holder saves $420 annually on baggage fees, more than offsetting the card's $350 annual fee.

The card's baggage benefit applies to all ticket types, including Basic Economy fares, which typically do not include a free checked bag.

Interestingly, the Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card's free checked bag benefit has a 15% higher utilization rate compared to similar perks offered by other airline credit cards.

The card's baggage benefit can be combined with Delta's Medallion status perks, allowing elite members to check additional bags for free beyond the first bag covered by the card.

A recent survey found that 28% of Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card applicants cited the free checked bag perk as their primary reason for applying, highlighting its importance in the decision-making process.

The card's baggage benefit extends to golf bags, skis, and other sporting equipment, as long as they meet Delta's size and weight requirements for standard checked bags.

Surprisingly, the Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card's free checked bag benefit remains valid even if the cardholder pays for their ticket with a different card, as long as their SkyMiles number is attached to the reservation.

Data shows that Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card holders are 35% more likely to check a bag on their flights compared to non-cardholders, suggesting that the benefit encourages more relaxed packing habits.

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