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In case you missed it, five of the six major U.S. airlines recently raised their checked bag fees. Alaska Airlines initiated this trend in December 2023 by increasing the cost of the first checked bag to $35—a $5 hike—which took effect on Jan. 2, 2024. travel tips to help you fit everything you need onboard while avoiding checked bag charges.
Carry-on only travel gear
Stuffable more than a standard neck pillow. It functions as a pillow cover that you can fill with up to two days’ worth of clothing, which creates extra room in your carry-on and helps you avoid baggage fees. The fabric is velvety and soft, and the pillow remains quite comfortable even when fully packed. You can also collapse it into your carry-on to transport t-shirts or souvenirs on your way home.
One word of warning: If you are flying on an ultra low-cost carrier like Spirit Airlines, we have heard from other travelers that gate agents sometimes <a t fit your pillow into your suitcase or personal item, they may charge you a fee to check your bag at the gate.