Travel advice: Airlines such as BA and Virgin introduce luggage charges

The airlines say they'll allow passengers to carry just one checked-in bag weighing up to 23kg within the price of an economy fare. Beyond that they'll charge from about £27 to £40 per second bag, per flight – the exact amount depends on the airline.

The rate may also vary according to the exchange rate, as US carriers charge in dollars, and also on the way you pay it, as some airlines, including BA and Virgin, will give discounts if you prepay online.

However, not all airlines are adopting this new approach. United Airlines continues to allow two bags within the price of the fare and although Virgin Atlantic is introducing a new charge for a second bag, it says it will take an additional bag of sports equipment weighing up to 23kg, such as golf clubs, at no charge.

Get the full story at: Telegraph