News and Research

How airline fees have turned baggage into billions (18-minute audio)

June 4, 2025

BBC World Service

From extra bags to choosing a seat, airline passengers are faced with an array of extras, for a fee.  And stricter limits for luggage in particular have turned ‘compatible’ suitcases and bags into big business. From bag manufacturers, racing to design the next travel bag innovation, to the travel influencers building audiences by sharing money-saving packing hacks. But what do passengers think about it all?

Presenter: Sam Gruet

Producer: Megan Lawton

Click here to listen to an 18-minute program from the BBC.

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