Nope, No $20 Bag Fee on Carnival. YouTuber’s “Inside Info” Dismissed

After recent changes to their loyalty program, Carnival Cruise Line has been fielding all kinds of rumors about what changes are actually being made. 

And while the new rewards program is reminiscent of how airlines benefit their travelers, it doesn’t mean other aspects—like baggage fees—are also being added.

A recent rumor surfaced on YouTube.  The Brand Ambassador for the cruise line, John Heald, addressed it on social media, and in his reply, he called the rumor “nonsense” and that the person who brought it up should be ignored.

The rumor? That Carnival was going to start charging a $20 fee for checked bags on short cruises.

The concerned cruiser wrote in to Heald saying, “Have you seen the YouTube channel of——– . In one of his videos he said that he has an inside source that has told him that in August Carnival will start charging an extra $20 for every checked bag on short cruises that are less than 6 days.”

The verdict: It’s completely false.

In fact, Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, cut right to the chase in shutting down the claim that had social media in a tizzy.

The rumor, which specifically targeted cruises under six days and suggested an August start date, apparently stemmed from a YouTube channel claiming an “inside source” at the cruise line.

By now, you should know that “inside source” is often code for “we’re making it up”.

Heald, known for his direct communication, addressed the issue head-on just yesterday. Responding to a worried guest, he made it clear:

“Thank you so much for not shouting at me… because it is not true. The silly chap is once again talking nonsense and please, please ignore him. We are not charging for checked bags. He does not have a ‘inside source’ and you can bring your bags on cost free as always.”

Heald even added a touch of his signature humor, questioning the need for multiple suitcases on shorter sailings.  He referenced his own struggles with airline carry-on rules – a subtle nod to the difference in baggage policies between flying and cruising.

Thankfully for us, taking care of baggage on a cruise ship is much simpler and easier than air travel, even apart from the extra fees that airlines charge.

Who knows how these rumors really get started.  Yes, you should try to tip the porters at the cruise terminal, but these are voluntary tips, as porters are independent contractors, not Carnival employees.

The bottom line for Carnival passengers? Pack your suitcases as usual. Your luggage is still included in your cruise fare.  Focus more on knowing what to pack and what you should leave at home.

Whether you opt to drop your bags off with the porters or utilize self-assist embarkation (carrying your own bags on and off), you won’t be paying extra. Carnival’s policy remains: your bags sail free.

Want Your Bags in Your Room Early?

While general baggage fees aren’t a thing, Carnival does offer options for those who want their luggage delivered to their cabin sooner. You can purchase the Faster to the Fun (FTTF) program for perks like priority check-in and early stateroom access to drop off bags.

Platinum and Diamond loyalty members (VIFP Club, transitioning to Carnival Rewards in June 2026) enjoy similar benefits, including priority boarding and early cabin access, at no extra cost.

Just remember, just because you can drop off your bags early, doesn’t mean that you can take a nap in your cabin before the staterooms are officially ready.  We addressed that in a story earlier this year: Carnival’s Heartfelt Plea to Priority Passengers taking Naps in Cabins.