In our e-mail box this week, I received a great question from a reader named “Mark”.  He was planning a trip for the near future.  He isn’t loyal to an airline, but loves to save money! Hey!  I don’t blame him because I honestly sound the same way.

This was the question that came in…

Hey.  I was wondering what airline has no checked in luggage fees?  From what I’ve read in the media, it seems as if airlines are charging for checked in baggage, as well as carry ons now!  If I have a family of 4 and each have a bag, I don’t even know what to think the price tag is going to be.  Thanks for your help.  – Mark L.

Well, I hopped online and researched most of the airlines in the United States.  I went on their fees page and came up with the following list.  Now, remember that these airlines can change their policies at any time, so make sure that you check their updated policy page, or call them up.

Accurate as of June 15, 2010:

The following airlines allow you to check in your bags for free –

#1 Southwest: You’ve seen the commercials, “bags fly free.”  Well, if you haven’t you can view one here if you’re bored.  You can check in 2 bags that weigh no more than 50 pounds each.  If it weighs more than 50 pounds, an extra fee will be tagged on.

#2 JetBlue: I absolutely love JetBlue.  I’m just bummed that they don’t fly out of the airport that I frequent often (DTW).  Anyways, JetBlue allows 1 free checked in bag, as well as 1 free carry on bag that weighs no more than 40 pounds.

#3 Air Canada: If you’re flying an international flight with Air Canada, you can get your first 2 pieces of bags up to 50 pounds on board for free.  If you’re going to fly outside of Canada, they only allow 1 free bag.

#4 British Airways: They allow 1 free bag up to 50 pounds if you’re going to fly within Europe.  If the bag is overweight, there will be additional fees.

#5 Air New Zealand: You can get 2 checked in bags for free.  Again, like many of the other airlines, they are going to have to weigh no more than 50 pounds.

As you can see, the list isn’t really that large.  Once one airline starts to charge for bags, it seems as if the rest are just going to follow suit.  Sure, it may be easier to bring a carry on, but you may find it easier to check in.  Whatever you do, if you’re not loyal to an airline, try and find one that has no checked in baggage fees.