Southwest Airlines’ move to charge $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second ends its popular “bags fly free” policy and leaves no major U.S. airline offering free checked luggage.
According to MarketWatch, travelers are now searching for ways to avoid escalating baggage fees. Once considered extravagant, shipping luggage is gaining traction as a practical, sometimes money-saving alternative.
The real cost comparison
American Airlines now charges $40 for the first checked bag, Delta charges $35, and United sets its price at $40 if you pay at the airport, according to MarketWatch’s June 2025 reporting.
Second bags can cost $45 to $50, and oversized suitcases are even pricier, American Airlines charges $135 for one between 50 and 70 pounds.
Shipping a 30- to 40-pound suitcase across the country with FedEx or UPS costs $50 to $80, according to rate tools cited by MarketWatch. Specialist companies like LugLess or Luggage Forward typically charge $80 to $150 for that same trip with door-to-door handling.
For families, the savings add up: MarketWatch noted that shipping eight bags for a family of four may cost less than airline fees for round-trip travel.
When shipping wins
Sending your luggage ahead can work well for longer stays, group travel, or travelers with bulky equipment. The New York Times’ “Frugal Traveler” highlights shipping as a stress-reducer when packing heavy or for more than a week. Families with bulky items, or travelers with odd-shaped baggage like golf clubs or skis, may find shipping both more convenient and less expensive.
According to MarketWatch, airline fees for sports equipment can reach $150 per item, often higher than standard shipping rates and insurance.
When to stick with checking
For short getaways or trips with just one bag, baggage checking is still cheaper. MarketWatch reports that the $35 airline fee is tough to beat for shipping.
Last-minute or international travelers may also find checking easier, since ground shipping often requires five days of lead time, and customs can cause delays abroad.
How to ship smart
Plan shipments at least a week before you travel. MarketWatch and shipper guidelines recommend sturdy luggage, careful packing, added insurance, and labeling bags with contact information.
The U.S. Department of Transportation caps airline liability at $3,800 for lost luggage; standard shipping often covers only $100 unless you upgrade. For hotel deliveries, call ahead to ensure staff accepts and holds your bags.
As checked bag costs continue to climb, shipping may offer a practical workaround, especially for families or extended travel. Weigh the trade-offs in price, time, and hassle before choosing how to handle your bags. That extra planning could make your travels a lot smoother.
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