Most airlines now charge fees for the first and second checked bags for domestic economy class passengers. A few only charge for the second checked bag per passenger. Southwest is a notable exception; they allow two checked bags per passenger without a fee.
With US Airways, if you want to check bags, you have to pay the fee. The checked bag fees are part of their pricing structure.
The way to avoid the fees entirely is to limit yourself to only carry-on bags, being careful to stay within the carry-on rules. For most of us, this is not an option. But for some people, especially those who are staying in DVC villas or other timeshare villas with a washing machine, it's a good option.
Another option is to reduce the fees by taking fewer checked bags. That means putting clothing for more than one member of your family in each checked bag.
In the future, when picking an airline, consider the checked fees that each airline charges.
Oh, and when you pack your bags, be very careful to stay within maximum size and weight limits. If you think the checked bag fees are bad, wait until you see the excess size and weight fees.
