JetBlue Just Made Your First Suitcase a Bigger Line Item

JetBlue has raised its checked bag fees for tickets purchased on or after November 3. Earlier bookings keep the old prices. The advance off-peak first bag now costs $50, up from $39, and the second bag is $70, up from $59.

Peak-period advance fees are $55 for the first bag and $75 for the second. Paying at the airport costs more: $60 off-peak and $70 at peak for the first bag, and $75 off-peak and $85 at peak for the second. These apply on US, Canada, Latin America and Caribbean routes. On transatlantic flights, the off-peak first bag on Main Base fares rises to $80 from $60.

Some travelers are shielded. Passengers on Mint and BlueFirst fares keep a free first bag, which can extend to as many as three companions, and TrueBlue Mosaic members get at least one free bag. Everyone else will feel the change, and a round trip with a single checked bag can now cost well over $100.

The coverage notes that JetBlue was among the first major US airlines to raise bag fees earlier this year and that rivals followed. Others may do so again. The practical advice is to pay in advance, since the airport price is higher, and to weigh whether a carry-on-only trip or a fare bundle that includes a bag works out cheaper.

Sources: Upgraded Points, View from the Wing