For many folks, checking a bag goes hand-in-hand with traveling. Currently, the Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) only permits 3.4 ounces of liquids in carry-on luggage. These liquids also must be placed in zip-top bags, with each traveler only allowed one bag.

Of course, people who are going to be out of town for considerable time periods or otherwise require more than 3.4 ounces of liquids on their trips will have to check a bag with their airline in order to transport these items.

In America, fees for checked luggage can vary; though across most large carriers, the first checked bag is between $25 to $30. Travelers who are planning to journey with American Airlines, however, can expect an increase in what they pay to check their luggage.

Major new change coming to American Airlines

Earlier today, the Texas-based air carrier announced fee hikes for checked bags.

For flights booked on February 20 and onward, the price for checking luggage at the airport will go from $30 to $40. Customers who pay for their bags online will only see a $5 increase from $30 to $35.

There's more. Travelers needing to check a second bag will now have to fork over $45 instead of $40.

While the public may balk at these cost increases, American Airlines views them as quite reasonable. According to the air carrier, the last time it moved up luggage fees was back in 2018. Moreover, the airline is cutting back costs for overweight bags.

Travelers who surpass the 50-pound limit by just three pounds will only need to pay a $30 surcharge, rather than the previous $100. Fees for bags that surpass 62 inches are also seeing the same change put into effect.

What motivated this decision?

Baggage fee updates come as American Airlines wants more travelers to join its AAdvantage program. Those who opt in get access to select perks.

AAdvantage credit card carriers will be eligible for an on-the-house checked bag during domestic flights. Likewise, premium cabin customers will be able to check their luggage free of charge, for both domestic and international trips.

In announcing these new changes, American Airlines CCO Vasu Raja declared that passengers who sign up for the AAdvantage program can look forward to the "best fares." The program is currently free to join.