Effective for travel from Oct. 7, 2009, British Airways is allowing one instead of two complimentary checked bags on U.K. domestic, European and international routes (excluding Brazil, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and direct connections between India and the U.S., Bermuda and Canada). Additional bag fees vary according to the destination and whether you pay at the airport or online prior to check-in. To check a second bag one way from the U.S. on British Airways will now cost $60 at the airport or $48 online; a third checked bag will cost you an additional $140 at the airport or $48 online. Gold and Silver elite Executive Club members get two checked bags free on all flights when traveling in World Traveller, Euro Traveller and U.K. domestic flights and passengers in higher fare classes receive two to three free checked bags depending on class flown. To view the new policy, visit http://insideflyerus.wpengine.com/link/?1740

Bottom line: Most airlines in the U.S. have added baggage fees for first and second bags for domestic flights and the trend is catching on across the pond. Be prepared to travel light or acquire elite status to avoid baggage fees because we expect more airlines to follow BA’s lead.