Airline travel is becoming more expensive as carriers respond to rising fuel costs tied to the war in Iran by increasing fares and tacking on new baggage fees.
American Airlines has implemented an additional $10 bag fee, adding to already higher ticket prices.
Nick Ewen, senior editorial director of The Points Guy, said many major airlines have already made similar moves.
"Most airlines have already announced these, and they've gone into effect. So JetBlue, United, Southwest, Delta all announced these changes. In most cases, it is in the neighborhood of $10 per checked bag. But if you are traveling as a family of four, you have a round-trip ticket, that can add up pretty quickly."
Ewen also said he expects the additional bag fees to remain in place.
Beyond domestic carriers, some international airlines are also adding significant fuel surcharges on certain flights, further increasing travel costs for consumers.
Another change affects travelers who rely on portable chargers, as airlines and regulators look to reduce the risk of lithium battery fires.
Katy Nastro of Going pointed to data showing the scope of the issue.
"According to the FAA, they've actually logged over 700 lithium battery-specific incidents over the last decade. And in 2025 alone, they had almost 100."
Lithium batteries are already prohibited in checked bags, but Southwest Airlines is expanding restrictions. Beginning April 20, passengers flying Southwest will be limited to carrying on only one portable charger.
Nastro explained the safety concern behind the policy.
"Lithium batteries come with this chain reaction called a thermal runaway, and it's basically when the battery can overheat spontaneously, it can catch fire, it can even explode," Nastro said.
Under Southwest's new rules, passengers will also be barred from placing portable chargers in overhead bins or recharging them using in-seat power outlets.
Travelers may still use portable chargers at their seats if the devices remain visible, or store them under the seat in front of them.
With rising fees and tighter safety policies, travelers are being urged to review airline rules carefully before heading to the airport.