Traveling as a family is an unforgettable experience—but the extra costs can pile up quickly. With checked bag fees averaging $35–$40 per person each way, a family of four can spend nearly $300 round-trip just on luggage.
Fortunately, several travel credit cards now offer free checked bags for both the cardholder and companions, making family travel more affordable and less stressful.
Here are the top 5 family-friendly travel credit cards of 2025 that help you avoid baggage fees and unlock valuable travel perks.
1. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Best for: Families who fly Delta often
- Free checked bag: For you and up to 8 companions
- Welcome bonus: 50,000 miles after spending $2,000 in 6 months
- Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $150
Perks:
- Zone 5 priority boarding
- 20% off in-flight purchases
- 15% off Delta award bookings (using SkyMiles)
- No foreign transaction fees
✅ Why it’s great for families: Covers up to 9 travelers—perfect for large families or multi-generational trips.
📌 Note: Your SkyMiles number must be attached to your reservation to receive the checked bag benefit.
2. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
Best for: Domestic family travel with no surprises
- Free checked bag: 2 free bags per person (Southwest policy)
- Welcome bonus: 75,000 points after qualifying spend
- Annual fee: $229
Perks:
- $75 annual Southwest travel credit
- 4 upgraded boardings per year
- 7,500 points every card anniversary
- Helps earn Companion Pass®
✅ Why it’s great for families: Bags-fly-free policy applies to everyone on your itinerary.
🚨 Update: Southwest will begin charging for bags on bookings made after May 28, 2025. This card will protect your perks.
3. United℠ Explorer Card
Best for: United loyalists with 1–2 travel companions
- Free checked bag: For you and 1 companion
- Welcome bonus: 60,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 3 months
- Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $150
Perks:
- 2 United Club passes annually
- Priority boarding
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
- 25% back on in-flight purchases
✅ Why it’s great for families: Useful for couples or smaller families. Lounge access adds comfort.
📌 Tip: You must use the card to book the flight and attach your MileagePlus number.
4. Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Best for: Large families flying American Airlines
- Free checked bag: For you and up to 8 companions
- Welcome bonus: 100,000 miles after $10,000 in 3 months
- Annual fee: $595
Perks:
- Admirals Club® access
- Priority check-in, security, and boarding
- $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
- 10,000 Loyalty Points boost annually
✅ Why it’s great for families: Ideal for large families or frequent AA travelers who want top-tier perks.
5. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card
Best for: West Coast families and Hawaii travelers
- Free checked bag: For you and up to 6 companions
- Welcome bonus: 70,000 miles + Companion Fare after $3,000 in 3 months
- Annual fee: $95
Perks:
- Famous Alaska Companion Fare
- 3x on Alaska purchases
- Discounts on inflight purchases and Wi-Fi
✅ Why it’s great for families: Strong value with wide coverage and companion savings.
📌 Note: You must use your Alaska card to purchase the ticket to qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to use the credit card to book the flight to get free checked bags?
Yes—for some airlines, you must use the card to book the ticket. Others only require a linked loyalty number.
Can I get free bags on award flights?
Yes, typically. If you use the card to pay taxes and fees, benefits still apply.
Will this benefit apply to international travel?
Often yes, but check your airline’s terms for international or codeshare limitations.
Does this stack with elite status or business class?
No. These benefits don’t stack with those already included in your fare or elite status.
Which card offers the best free bag benefit for families?
Delta and Southwest stand out. Both cover up to 8 companions, perfect for large groups.
Still Not Sure Which Travel Card Fits Your Family?
The Cards Guy offers free, personalized guidance to help you find the best credit card based on your travel habits, family size, and budget.
👉 Contact us here for a custom recommendation or take our 1-minute quiz.
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