Ever stared at your luggage, then at your phone, wondering if you could just poof those bags onto the plane with a few taps? Well, with the American Airlines app, that magic is almost a reality! Checking your bags on the app isn't just a convenience; it's a savvy traveler's secret weapon, saving you precious time and sometimes even money at the airport. So, are you ready to skip those long check-in lines and glide through the airport like a seasoned pro? Let's dive in!
Checking Your Bags on the American Airlines App: A Step-by-Step Guide
Using the American Airlines app to manage your checked baggage can significantly streamline your airport experience. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a smooth journey from your doorstep to your destination.
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| How To Check Bag On American Airlines App |
Step 1: Prepare for Take-off – Download and Log In!
First things first, you need the right tools! Are you a seasoned American Airlines flyer or a new adventurer? Either way, having the app ready is crucial.
Downloading the App
For Apple Users: Head to the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Search for "American Airlines" and tap "Get" to download.
For Android Users: Open the Google Play Store on your Android device. Search for "American Airlines" and tap "Install."
Logging In
Once the app is installed, open it up.
Existing AAdvantage® Members: Log in using your AAdvantage® number or username and password. This is the easiest way, as your upcoming trips will usually appear automatically.
Guests or New Users: You can often "Continue as Guest" and then locate your reservation by entering your last name and the 6-character confirmation code (also known as the record locator) from your booking.
Step 2: Access Your Trip and Initiate Check-in
Now that you're in the app, it's time to find your flight and begin the check-in process. Remember, you can typically check in 24 hours before your flight and up to 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights (90 minutes for international flights).
Tip: Don’t skip the small notes — they often matter.
Locating Your Trip
If you're logged in: Your upcoming trips should be prominently displayed on the app's home screen under "My Trips" or a similar section. Tap on the relevant flight.
If you're continuing as a guest: Look for an option like "Find Reservation/Check In" on the home screen. Enter your last name and confirmation code, then proceed.
Starting the Check-in Process
Once you've selected your trip, you'll see details about your flight. Look for a button or prompt that says "Check In" or "Begin Check-in."
Step 3: Declare Your Bags and Pay Fees (If Applicable)
This is where you tell American Airlines how many bags you plan to check. This step is crucial for saving time and potentially money.
Declaring the Number of Bags
The app will guide you through a series of questions. One of them will ask you to specify the number of bags you intend to check. Be accurate!
Carefully review American Airlines' baggage policy for your specific fare type and destination. Fees vary based on your route, cabin, AAdvantage® status, and whether you have an eligible American Airlines credit card. Often, paying for bags online or through the app is cheaper than paying at the airport. You can save $5 on the first checked bag fee for travel within the U.S. when paying online or in the app.
Understanding Bag Fees and Waivers
First Bag Free? If you have AAdvantage® elite status (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum) or certain American Airlines co-branded credit cards, you may be entitled to free checked bags. The app will usually reflect this benefit automatically if your AAdvantage® number is linked to your reservation.
Paying for Additional Bags: The app will calculate the total cost for your checked bags based on the number you declare and your specific itinerary. You can then securely pay using a credit or debit card directly within the app.
Step 4: Confirm Details and Get Your Boarding Pass
Almost there! After declaring and paying for your bags, you'll finalize your check-in.
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
Reviewing Your Information
The app will present a summary of your check-in details, including your flight information, seat assignment (if applicable), and the number of bags you're checking. Take a moment to double-check everything to ensure accuracy.
Obtaining Your Mobile Boarding Pass
Once confirmed, you'll be able to generate your mobile boarding pass. This is typically displayed within the app and can often be added to your phone's digital wallet (like Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) for easy access.
Keep this easily accessible! You'll need it for security checkpoints and boarding your flight.
Step 5: At the Airport – Express Bag Tag and Drop-off
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The app has done its magic. Now, it's time for a quick physical drop-off.
Using Express Bag Tags
At many airports, American Airlines offers Express Bag Tags or self-service kiosks. After checking in on the app, you can often scan your mobile boarding pass at these kiosks to automatically print your bag tags. This is a huge time-saver!
Attach the printed tags securely to each of your checked bags.
Bag Drop-off
Look for the "Bag Drop" or "Self-Service Bag Drop" area at the American Airlines counter. These lines are typically much shorter than the full-service check-in lines.
Present your tagged bags and your mobile boarding pass (or printed boarding pass) to the agent or simply place them on the conveyor belt if it's a fully automated drop-off.
Final Tips for a Smooth Experience
Check Bag Dimensions & Weight: Always ensure your bags adhere to American Airlines' size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees at the airport. The standard allowance is 50 lbs (23 kgs) and 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions (length + width + height).
Prohibited Items: Be aware of items restricted from checked baggage by the TSA and American Airlines.
Early Arrival: Even with app check-in, it's advisable to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, especially during peak travel seasons or for international flights.
Track Your Bags: The American Airlines app also allows you to track your checked bags from check-in to arrival, giving you peace of mind!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
How to check my baggage allowance on the American Airlines app?
You can typically find your specific baggage allowance by going to "My Trips" in the app, selecting your flight, and looking for a "Bags" or "Baggage Policy" section. Alternatively, you can visit the "Travel Information" section of the app and look for "Bags" or "Checked Bag Policy."
How to pay for extra bags using the American Airlines app?
During the mobile check-in process, after you declare the number of bags you intend to check, the app will automatically calculate any applicable fees. You'll then be prompted to securely pay for these extra bags using a credit or debit card within the app.
How to get a refund for bag fees on American Airlines?
If you believe you were incorrectly charged for bag fees, you can contact an American Airlines representative for assistance or file a refund claim within 45 days. This is typically done through their customer service channels, not directly in the app.
How to track my checked bags on the American Airlines app?
Once your bags are checked, you can track their status within the American Airlines app. On the home screen or within your trip details, look for a "Track Your Bags" or "Bags" option. You'll usually need your record locator or bag tag number.
How to check in an oversized or overweight bag on the American Airlines app?
While you can declare the number of bags on the app, oversized or overweight bag fees are often assessed and paid at the airport, as they require physical verification. The app helps you with standard bags. Refer to American Airlines' checked bag policy for specific details on these items.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
How to add special items (e.g., sports equipment) as checked baggage via the app?
For special items like sports equipment, it's best to review American Airlines' specific policies on their website or app's "Special Items and Sports Equipment" section. While you can often pay standard bag fees via the app if they fall within regular allowances, specialized or oversized sports equipment may require airport handling and payment.
How to find out if I have free checked bags with my AAdvantage® status on the app?
When you log into the American Airlines app with your AAdvantage® number and proceed with check-in, the app should automatically recognize your status and display any free checked bag entitlements you have for your specific itinerary.
How to get my boarding pass after checking bags on the American Airlines app?
After completing the check-in process and declaring/paying for your bags, the app will generate your mobile boarding pass. You'll usually see an option to view it directly, save it to your phone's digital wallet, or email it to yourself.
How to cancel bag check-in on the American Airlines app if my plans change?
If you've already checked in and paid for bags on the app but your plans change, you cannot directly "cancel" the bag check-in within the app. You would need to contact American Airlines customer service for assistance with your reservation and any potential bag fee refunds, subject to their policies.
How to get an Express Bag Tag after checking in on the American Airlines app?
After successfully checking in and paying for bags on the app, when you arrive at the airport, simply go to an American Airlines self-service kiosk. Scan your mobile boarding pass (or enter your confirmation code), and the kiosk will typically allow you to print your Express Bag Tags. Then, proceed to the Bag Drop area.
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