US airlines increase baggage fees

1️⃣ Luggage is Now a Luxury

If you thought checking a bag was already expensive, sit down. This month, JetBlue, American, Delta, United, and Alaska Southwest implemented new baggage fee schedules. The standard now hovers around $45 for the first bag if you pay at the airport, whereas previously the standard was around $35. 

💡 The point of this news: Having an airline credit card often includes one checked bag for domestic flights. If you are a frequent flyer or travel with family, a $95 card can save you hundreds of dollars annually. We share some of the best airline cards that include at least one free bag per passenger.

2️⃣ United: Basic Fares Now Give "Zero" Miles to Some Members

If you purchased a United Basic Economy ticket starting April 2, 2026, we hope you weren't counting on those miles for your next vacation. United stopped awarding miles to general members on these fares. Ouch.  

It's as if United said, "Thank you for flying with us, but because you paid less, we are going to pretend this trip never happened." 

 Now, those who hold a United credit (or debit) card and/or Premier status were spared from this news and will retain some earning benefits. 

💡 The point of this news: If you are loyal to United, this is one more reason to consider one of their cards.

3️⃣ Citi Puts an End to Generosity: Point Sharing Between Users is Ending

Citi released terrible news for those of us who play as a team: ThankYou Rewards "Points Sharing" will come to an end on May 17, 2026. 

Until now, you could transfer up to 100,000 points per year to a friend or family member for free to complete a trip. Starting in May, your points stay in your account, period. You will still be able to share them between your own accounts, but you will no longer be able to send or receive from third parties. 

💡 The point of this news: If you have points scattered across family members' accounts, you have until May 16 to consolidate them. Remember that shared points expire in 90 days, so only transfer them if you already have a trip in mind or any other redemption method that suits you. 

4️⃣ Last Call for World of Hyatt Before the May Change

Hotel point pricing for Hyatt with the new 5-level chart (Lowest to Top) comes into effect next month. This means iconic hotels like the Park Hyatts are going to cost up to 67% more during peak season.

On our end, just this weekend we made several reservations for our upcoming summer trip, including the iconic Park Hyatt Milan at the old rate.

💡 The point of this news: You have less than 3 weeks to book your summer or year-end stays at the current rates. Lock in your rooms now; if you change your mind, you can always cancel and get your points back. 

5️⃣ Transfer Bonuses: Citi and Chase

• Citi is offering a 30% bonus to Virgin Atlantic and 25% to Avianca LifeMiles until April 18. 

• Chase is offering a 20% bonus to Air Canada Aeroplan and 70% to IHG.

• Capital One is offering a 30% bonus to Japan Airlines until April 30. 

It's an ideal opportunity to stretch your points and convert them into Business class tickets that would otherwise be unaffordable. Personally, we think all of these airlines offer good redemption opportunities, and with a bonus, it becomes even more attractive. 

💡 The point of this news: Don't transfer just for the sake of transferring because programs can be devalued at any time, but if you have your eyes on a flight to Europe with Virgin Atlantic or a trip with Star Alliance via Aeroplan, this is the time to act.