Traveling with American Airlines and suddenly realized you need to check a bag or two? Perhaps your travel plans evolved, or you simply underestimated your packing prowess! Don't fret – adding baggage to your American Airlines reservation is a common and straightforward process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.
Ready to lighten your load (or add more to it)? Let's get started!
Step 1: Understand American Airlines' Baggage Policy (The Basics)
Before you add a single bag, it's crucial to understand American Airlines' baggage policies and fees. These can vary based on your fare class, destination, and even your AAdvantage® status or credit card benefits. Knowing this upfront can save you time and money.
Sub-heading: Key Factors Affecting Baggage Fees:
Fare Class: Basic Economy generally has different (and often higher) fees compared to Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business, or First Class. For instance, while a Main Cabin transatlantic flight might include a free checked bag, a Basic Economy ticket on the same route could incur a fee.
Destination: Fees for domestic flights (within the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Canada) differ from international routes (e.g., to Europe, Asia, South America, Caribbean).
Number of Bags: The cost typically increases with each additional bag you check.
Weight and Size: Bags exceeding standard weight (usually 50 lbs / 23 kg for Economy/Main Cabin, 70 lbs / 32 kg for First/Business) or linear dimensions (usually 62 inches / 158 cm total) will incur oversize and/or overweight fees, which can be substantial.
AAdvantage® Status/Credit Card: Elite AAdvantage® members (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum) and holders of certain American Airlines co-branded credit cards often receive free checked bag allowances. Be sure your AAdvantage® number is on your reservation!
Pro-Tip: Always check the official American Airlines website's "Bag and Optional Fees" section for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing for your specific itinerary.
Step 2: Choose Your Method: Online, App, or Airport?
American Airlines offers several convenient ways to add baggage. The best option often depends on how close you are to your departure time and your personal preference.
Sub-heading: Option A: Online (Recommended for convenience and potential savings)
Adding bags online is usually the most cost-effective and convenient method, often allowing you to pay a slightly lower fee than at the airport. This is typically available during the online check-in process, which opens 24 hours before your flight.
Access Your Reservation:
Go to the American Airlines website (AA.com).
Click on "Manage Trips" or "Check In."
Enter your 6-character confirmation code (PNR) and your last name.
Alternatively, log in to your AAdvantage® account if you booked while signed in.
Initiate Online Check-in:
Once your trip appears, proceed with the online check-in process. This is where you'll typically be prompted to add and pay for checked bags.
Select Number of Bags:
During check-in, you'll see an option to declare how many checked bags you intend to bring.
Carefully select the correct number to avoid issues at the airport.
Review Fees and Pay:
The system will display the applicable fees based on your itinerary and chosen number of bags.
Confirm the details and proceed with payment using a credit card.
Keep your payment confirmation for your records.
Sub-heading: Option B: American Airlines Mobile App
The American Airlines mobile app offers a seamless experience, mirroring the website's functionality for adding bags.
Open the App and Log In:
Launch the American Airlines app on your smartphone or tablet.
Log in to your AAdvantage® account or access your trip using your confirmation code.
Find Your Trip:
Navigate to your active trips.
Check In and Add Bags:
Similar to the website, the option to add checked bags will typically appear during the online check-in process within 24 hours of your flight.
Follow the prompts to select and pay for your bags.
Sub-heading: Option C: At the Airport (Kiosk or Ticket Counter)
While possible, adding bags at the airport generally costs slightly more than paying online. It's often reserved for last-minute decisions or if you encounter issues with online payment.
Self-Service Kiosk:
At the airport, locate an American Airlines self-service kiosk.
Scan your boarding pass or enter your confirmation code/AAdvantage® number.
Follow the on-screen instructions to check in and declare your bags. The kiosk will calculate the fees, and you can pay with a credit card.
The kiosk will then print your baggage tags, which you'll attach to your bags before taking them to the bag drop.
Ticket Counter:
If you prefer speaking with an agent or have complex baggage needs (e.g., special items, unusually large/heavy bags), head to the American Airlines ticket counter.
An agent will assist you with checking in, declaring your bags, and processing payment. Be prepared for longer wait times, especially during peak travel periods.
Step 3: Preparing Your Bags for Check-in
Adding bags isn't just about paying the fee; it's also about preparing them correctly.
Sub-heading: Size and Weight Compliance:
Standard Checked Bag Dimensions: Most checked bags must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height) or 158 cm.
Standard Checked Bag Weight: For Economy and Main Cabin, the limit is typically 50 lbs (23 kg). For First and Business Class, it's often 70 lbs (32 kg).
Measure and Weigh: Do yourself a favor and measure and weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport. Invest in a small luggage scale – it's a game-changer! If you're close to the limit, consider shifting items between bags or removing non-essential items.
Overweight/Oversize Fees: Bags exceeding these limits will incur additional fees, which can quickly add up. These fees are typically non-refundable and apply per bag, each way. For example, a bag between 51-70 lbs might incur a $100 fee, and an oversized bag could cost $200.
Sub-heading: Packing Smart:
Liquids: Remember TSA rules for liquids in checked baggage (no 3-1-1 rule applies here, but ensure they are securely packed to prevent leaks).
Valuables: Never pack valuables, electronics, medications, or important documents in your checked luggage. Keep these in your carry-on or personal item.
Fragile Items: While checked, ensure fragile items are well-padded and packed in hard-sided luggage. American Airlines' liability for damage to fragile items is limited.
Identification: Always have an identification tag on the outside of your bag with your name and contact information. Consider adding one inside as well.
Step 4: At the Airport: Bag Drop
Once you've paid for your bags (whether online or at a kiosk) and have your tags, it's time for the bag drop.
Express Bag Tags (if applicable): If you checked in online/app and paid for bags, at many airports, you can use a self-service kiosk to print your Express Bag Tags. Simply scan your boarding pass, and the tags will print automatically.
Attach Tags Securely: Affix the printed baggage tags to the handle of each checked bag. Ensure they are securely attached and clearly visible.
Proceed to Bag Drop: Follow the signs for "Bag Drop" or "Baggage Check." This is usually a dedicated area, often less crowded than the main ticket counter. An agent will quickly scan your boarding pass and bags, and send them on their way.
Confirm Destination: Briefly confirm with the agent that your bags are being checked to your final destination, especially if you have connecting flights.
Step 5: Special Circumstances & Considerations
Sometimes, adding baggage isn't as straightforward as a regular suitcase.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment:
American Airlines has specific policies and fees for various sports equipment (e.g., golf clubs, skis, surfboards, bicycles). These often count as a standard checked bag, but oversize/overweight fees may apply even if they fit within the weight limits for regular luggage.
Check the American Airlines website for details on your specific equipment. Some items may require specific packaging.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments:
Small musical instruments often qualify as a carry-on item if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
Larger instruments can be checked as baggage, subject to standard checked bag fees, and potential oversize/overweight fees.
For very large or valuable instruments, you might be able to purchase an additional seat for them in the cabin. Always use a hard-sided case for checked musical instruments, as American Airlines' liability for damage is limited without it.
Sub-heading: Pet Travel:
Pets can sometimes travel as carry-on (in-cabin) or checked baggage, but this is highly restricted and requires prior arrangement and approval from American Airlines.
There are specific fees, carrier requirements, and health certifications needed. This cannot simply be "added" to your booking online last minute.
Sub-heading: Military Personnel:
Active U.S. military personnel and their dependents often receive generous free checked baggage allowances. Always check the specific policy on the American Airlines website, as it can vary by travel orders and destination.
Step 6: What If I Need to Change My Baggage After Payment?
Generally, once you've paid for a bag, the fee is non-refundable. If you decide you no longer need to check a bag or wish to change the number, it's best to contact American Airlines directly as soon as possible to discuss your options. Refunds for incorrectly charged fees must typically be filed within 45 days.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check my American Airlines baggage allowance?
You can check your baggage allowance by visiting the "Bag and optional fees" section on the American Airlines official website (AA.com) or by logging into your reservation via "Manage Trips" to see the specific allowance for your ticket.
How to find American Airlines baggage fees for my specific flight?
To find baggage fees for your specific flight, go to AA.com, navigate to "Bag and optional fees," and use their baggage calculator by entering your origin, destination, and fare class. Alternatively, the exact fees will be displayed during the online check-in process.
How to pay for American Airlines checked bags online?
You can pay for American Airlines checked bags online during the online check-in process, which opens 24 hours before your flight, by logging into your reservation on AA.com or through the American Airlines mobile app.
How to add an extra bag to an existing American Airlines reservation?
You can add an extra bag to an existing American Airlines reservation by accessing "Manage Trips" on AA.com or the mobile app, and proceeding through the check-in process where the option to add and pay for additional bags will be presented.
How to deal with overweight or oversized baggage on American Airlines?
Overweight or oversized baggage on American Airlines will incur additional fees at the airport. It's best to repack to meet the standard limits if possible; otherwise, be prepared to pay the applicable overweight and/or oversized baggage charges at the ticket counter or kiosk.
How to get free checked bags on American Airlines?
You can get free checked bags on American Airlines if you have AAdvantage® elite status (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum), hold certain American Airlines co-branded credit cards, or are traveling in a premium cabin (Premium Economy, Business, or First Class) where bags are included.
How to print baggage tags for American Airlines?
If you check in online or via the app and pay for your bags, you can print Express Bag Tags at a self-service kiosk at the airport by scanning your boarding pass. Otherwise, an agent at the ticket counter will print them for you.
How to ensure my special baggage (e.g., sports equipment) is accepted by American Airlines?
To ensure your special baggage is accepted, review American Airlines' specific policies for sports equipment or musical instruments on their website. Adhere to their dimensions, weight limits, and any specific packing requirements (like hard-sided cases for instruments) and be prepared for potential special item fees.
How to contact American Airlines about baggage issues?
For baggage issues such as delayed, damaged, or missing bags, you should contact American Airlines' baggage services department directly. Their contact information can usually be found under the "Customer Service" or "Bags" section of their website.
How to know if my carry-on bag is compliant with American Airlines rules?
American Airlines allows one carry-on bag (max 22 x 14 x 9 inches / 56 x 36 x 23 cm) and one personal item (max 18 x 14 x 8 inches / 45 x 35 x 20 cm) that must fit under the seat. Always check the official policy for any updates, and be prepared to place your carry-on in the sizer at the gate.
