To pay for the rising cost of fuel, most airlines charge passengers for checked baggage. Some airlines do allow passengers to check one free bag. Exceptions to the rule exist for certain passengers. First-class passengers and active military personnel are usually offered free checked bags. On international flights, passengers are allowed to check one or two bags for free as long as the bags meet the weight requirement.
Check in for your flight at the airport, either inside at the ticket counter or at the curbside check-in. If you use the inside check in, you can use the electronic kiosk and add the number of bags you want to check. Then you bring your bags to the main check-in counter where your bags will be weighed.
Use a credit or debit card to pay for your checked bags. Your airline's check-in counter attendant will charge your card and tag your bags.
Many airlines also have the option of paying for your checked bag online when you purchase your ticket. Paying for your checked bag in advance will typically be a few dollars cheaper than paying for your bag at the airport.
Take your receipt from the check-in counter attendant. This will prove that you paid. It will also have your baggage identification number attached in case your bag is lost in transit.
