Business traveling has never been more convenient — unless you plan on bringing a suitcase along.

American Airlines recently announced that, as of June 15, it’s charging $15 for the first checked bag. This is after another recent announcement that it’ll be charging $25 for second bags. If you need to take more with you, it’ll be $100 for the third, fourth and fifth bag and $200 per piece after five bags.

Don’t think you’ll cut costs by shoving everything into one bag. American also announced it’s raising prices for oversized bags and reservation help.

Since it’s not the only one facing soaring fuel prices, are other airlines planning to follow American down the runway?

Starting July 9, U.S. Airways is also charging $15 for the first bag, $25 for the second and $100 for each bag after that. As of August 1, they’ll charge $2 for in-flight sodas and water. But it’s also trying to make up for the new charges by installing iPod jacks on some planes.

United’s planning to join the ranks of those charging for checked bags. If you’re traveling after August 17, plan to pay $15 for the first and $25 for the second bag.

As if bumping up services that passengers used to take for granted wasn’t bad enough, most airlines will be cutting domestic flights, retiring planes and laying off thousands of workers.

Currently Delta, American’s biggest rival, has no plans of adding a fee for first checked bags. But they are considering their options on how to withstand rising fuel prices.

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Tags: Airlines, Checked bags, Fuel prices, iPods, Reservations