JetBlue has become a popular choice for travelers due to its affordable fares, great in-flight services, and relatively generous baggage policies compared to other budget airlines. Whether you’re flying across the U.S. or heading to an international destination, understanding JetBlue baggage policy is key to a smooth travel experience. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about JetBlue’s baggage allowances, fees, and tips for packing smart to avoid unnecessary costs.
1. What’s Included in Your JetBlue Fare?
JetBlue offers a variety of fare options, from basic economy to premium services, and each comes with different baggage allowances. Before you start packing, it’s important to know what’s already included in your fare.
Carry-On Bag
Every passenger flying on JetBlue is allowed one free carry-on bag. This is one of the airline’s perks, as many low-cost carriers charge extra for carry-ons.
- Carry-On Dimensions: Your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm). This size is ideal for fitting in the overhead bin.
- Weight: While JetBlue doesn’t enforce a specific weight limit for carry-on bags, make sure it’s light enough for you to lift into the overhead compartment. If the bag is too heavy, it may be asked to be checked at the gate, which could incur additional fees.
Personal Item
Along with your free carry-on, you are allowed to bring one personal item. This can be a purse, backpack, laptop bag, or small briefcase. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Personal Item Dimensions: It must be no larger than 17 x 13 x 8 inches (43 x 33 x 20 cm).
By carefully packing your carry-on and personal item, you can maximize your free allowance and avoid the need for checked luggage.
2. JetBlue Checked Baggage Fees
While carry-ons and personal items are free, checked bags are subject to additional fees. These charges depend on the fare class you select and how many bags you check.
Checked Baggage Fees by Fare Type
- Blue Basic: With a Blue Basic fare, there’s no free checked bag. You’ll need to pay for each checked bag:
- First Checked Bag: $35 each way
- Second Checked Bag: $45 each way
- Blue, Blue Plus, and Blue Extra: These fare types include one free checked bag. If you need to check a second bag, it will cost $45.
- Mint: JetBlue’s premium Mint class comes with two free checked bags in addition to one free carry-on and personal item.
Weight and Size Limits for Checked Bags
To avoid paying overweight or oversized fees, make sure your checked bag adheres to the airline’s size and weight guidelines:
- Weight: Checked bags should not exceed 50 pounds (22.6 kg). If your bag is heavier than this, you’ll face an overweight fee of $150 per bag.
- Size: The total size (length + width + height) of your checked bag should not exceed 62 inches (157 cm). If your bag is larger, you’ll be charged an oversized baggage fee of $150.
3. Smart Packing Tips to Avoid Extra Fees
Now that you know JetBlue’s baggage allowances, let’s go over some smart packing tips to help you avoid additional charges and make the most of your luggage allowance.
1. Pack Light and Efficiently
The more you can fit into your free carry-on and personal item, the less you’ll have to worry about paying extra fees. Consider the following:
- Wear heavy or bulky items: If you’re traveling with items like jackets, shoes, or sweaters that take up a lot of space, wear them rather than packing them in your carry-on.
- Roll your clothes: Rolling clothes saves space and helps reduce wrinkles, making it easier to fit more into your carry-on.
- Use packing cubes: These handy tools can help you organize your bag and maximize available space.
2. Consider Upgrading Your Fare
If you plan to check multiple bags, it might be worth upgrading your fare. For example, the Blue Plus or Blue Extra fares come with one free checked bag, while the Mint class offers two free checked bags. If you know you’ll need to check more than one bag, these upgrades can save you money.
3. Weigh Your Bag Before Heading to the Airport
Avoid overweight baggage fees by weighing your bag at home before heading to the airport. If your bag is close to the 50-pound limit, you can remove a few items or shift them into your carry-on to keep the weight in check. A small luggage scale can be a great investment for keeping track of your bag’s weight.
4. Pre-Purchase Checked Bags
JetBlue allows passengers to pre-purchase checked bags when booking their flights or managing their reservation online. By purchasing checked baggage in advance, you can save money compared to paying at the airport.
5. Take Advantage of JetBlue’s Free Carry-On and Personal Item
JetBlue allows one free carry-on and one free personal item. If you can fit your essential items into these two pieces of luggage, you can avoid paying for checked bags altogether. Be strategic with your packing and use your personal item to carry extra small essentials like electronics, books, or snacks.
4. Special Items and Their Fees
In addition to regular baggage, JetBlue also allows passengers to bring special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. These items are subject to additional fees, depending on their size and weight.
Sports Equipment
JetBlue allows passengers to bring sports equipment such as golf clubs, skis, snowboards, or bicycles, but these items come with additional fees:
- Golf Clubs: $50 each way
- Skis and Snowboards: $50 each way
- Bikes: $75 each way
Make sure your sports equipment is properly packed (for example, use a hard case for bikes) to avoid any damage during transit.
Musical Instruments
If you’re traveling with a musical instrument like a guitar or violin, JetBlue allows you to bring it in the cabin as a carry-on if it fits within the carry-on size limits. Larger instruments will need to be checked, and additional charges may apply.
Pets
JetBlue is known for being a pet-friendly airline. You can bring small pets in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way. Pets must be in an approved carrier, and the combined weight of the pet and carrier cannot exceed 15 pounds (7 kg). Larger pets must travel in the cargo hold.
5. JetBlue’s Baggage Policy for International Flights
JetBlue’s baggage policy for international flights is similar to its domestic policy. However, certain international routes may have slightly different baggage allowances, such as higher weight limits for checked luggage. Always check the baggage policy for your specific international flight to avoid surprises.
6. Final Tips for a Smooth Baggage Experience
- Use JetBlue’s Online Baggage Tools: JetBlue offers tools on their website and mobile app, such as a baggage calculator, which can help you determine your baggage fees based on your route and fare class.
- Review Your Luggage Before Heading to the Airport: Double-check your luggage to make sure it’s within the weight and size limits. Packing early gives you time to make adjustments and avoid last-minute baggage issues.
- Be Aware of Special Items: If you’re traveling with special items (sports equipment, pets, or musical instruments), make sure you’re aware of the additional fees and requirements before you head to the airport.
Conclusion: Travel Smart with JetBlue’s Baggage Policy
By understanding JetBlue’s baggage allowances and following a few simple packing tips, you can avoid paying unnecessary fees and make your trip more enjoyable. Take advantage of JetBlue’s free carry-on and personal item, consider upgrading your fare if you need additional checked luggage, and pack efficiently to stay within weight and size limits.
With these tips, you’ll be able to travel smart and focus on enjoying your flight without worrying about extra baggage charges. Safe travels!