Airlines with Free Baggage Allowance

If the free baggage allowance isn't enough for your trip and you'd like to book more baggage, you have a few options:

• Add your baggage at the time of booking. If you make a booking with Alternative Airlines, you can add baggage at the time of booking on a number of airlines. For full information on how to do this and the list of airlines that its available with can be found on our how to add baggage page
• Add your baggage after booking online. If you decide you'd like to add baggage after you've made your booking, you'll be able to do this directly on the airline's website, subject to availability
• Add your baggage after booking at the airport. Alternatively, you can add baggage to your booking at the airport. However, we only suggest this as a last resort, as baggage fees at the airport are significantly higher than online

Out of all the airlines, La Compagnie is the best for free baggage and give the most generous free baggage allowance. The airline offers 18kg/40lbs of free carry-on baggage and up to 64kg/141lbs of free checked baggage, no matter which fare you buy.

However, La Compagnie might not always have the flights you're looking for. The answer to this question depends on where you’re flying and what fare you’ve booked. That said, some airlines do stand out for offering more generous allowances as standard.

For international travel, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Emirates are known for including one or two checked bags even on economy fares. Ethiopian Airlines and Singapore Airlines also offer competitive baggage policies depending on the route.

If you’re flying within the US, most basic economy fares don’t include checked baggage, but airlines like Southwest stand out by offering two checked bags for free on all fare types.

💡Just remember: baggage allowances can vary by destination, fare class, and loyalty status. It’s always best to check the details before booking.

No, airlines don’t always include free carry-on baggage. While many full-service airlines do allow one carry-on bag and a personal item (like a handbag or laptop bag) at no extra cost, some low-cost airlines charge for anything beyond a small personal item.

Budget carriers such as Spirit, Frontier and Ryanair often offer lower base fares but make up the difference with extra fees, and carry-on bags are a common add-on. Even within the same airline, what's included can depend on your fare type.

Before you book, always check what your ticket includes. Some “basic” or “light” fares may not allow a full-size carry-on without a fee.

If travelling with a bag you’ll need in the cabin, make sure your fare includes it, or be ready to pay extra at the airport. Planning ahead helps avoid surprises at the gate.

What you can pack depends on whether it's going in your checked bag or your carry-on.

Checked baggage is less restricted - you can usually pack liquids, larger items, and things like razors or sports gear. Just avoid packing anything valuable or fragile, as your bag will be handled by airport staff.

Carry-on bags have stricter rules. Liquids must be in containers no larger than 100ml (3.4oz) and fit in a clear, resealable plastic bag. Sharp items, large tools, and flammable products aren’t allowed either.

Need a full rundown? Check out our blog on what you can carry on a plane for more details.

Yes, free baggage allowances often differ between domestic and international flights.

On many domestic routes (especially in the US), basic fares usually don’t include free checked baggage. You’ll likely need to pay extra unless you’re flying with an airline that includes bags or you have a perk like loyalty status or an airline credit card.

International flights, on the other hand, tend to be more generous. Most long-haul fares include at least one checked bag as standard, especially with full-service airlines. But it still depends on the airline, destination and fare type.

Always double-check what’s included before you book, as baggage rules can vary, even on the same airline. Look out for terms like “Basic Economy” or “Light Fare,” which often mean bags aren’t included.

Many airlines offer free checked bags to active-duty military personnel as a thank you for their service. In the US, major carriers like American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines all provide generous baggage allowances, often more than what regular passengers receive.

For example, American Airlines allows up to five free checked bags for active-duty members on official orders, and up to three for personal travel. Delta and United offer similar benefits, with additional allowances depending on whether you're travelling for duty or leisure.

It’s always best to check the airline’s specific policy before flying, as requirements can vary. You’ll usually need to show valid military ID at check-in.

These benefits don’t always apply to companions, so make sure to review the details carefully if travelling with family.

While most free baggage perks are aimed at active-duty military, a few US airlines do extend benefits to veterans.

• Allegiant Air leads the way, offering two free checked bags (up to 100 lbs each), a carry-on bag, personal item and even a pet in the cabin - all free of charge. These benefits also apply to spouses and dependents on the same booking.
• JetBlue provides two free checked bags and a 5% fare discount through the Veterans Advantage program. To qualify, veterans need to enroll and verify their status.

For other airlines, like American, Delta, United, Southwest and others, free baggage is currently only available to active-duty personnel, with benefits often increasing when travelling on official orders.

To get the most out of veteran baggage perks, always check the latest airline policy before booking, carry proof of service, and look into programs or credit cards that offer additional travel benefits.