Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle, but with American Airlines, it's a straightforward process once you know the steps. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended international adventure, understanding how to "buy a bag" – which usually means paying for checked baggage – is crucial for a smooth journey.
Ready to pack smart and travel stress-free? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand American Airlines' Baggage Basics – What Kind of Bag Do You Need?
Before you even think about paying, you need to know what kind of bag you're bringing. American Airlines categorizes bags into two main types, plus an exception for personal items.
1.1 Personal Item:
What it is: This is your smallest bag, like a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or briefcase. It's meant to fit completely under the seat in front of you.
Dimensions: Typically, it should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
Cost: Always free for all passengers.
Pro Tip: Diaper bags (one per child), soft-sided cooler bags with breast milk, child safety seats, strollers, and medical/mobility devices do not count towards your personal item or carry-on allowance.
1.2 Carry-On Bag:
What it is: This is the bag you bring with you into the aircraft cabin and store in the overhead bin.
Dimensions: Standard carry-on dimensions are typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. It must fit in the sizer at the airport.
Cost: Generally free for all passengers, including those on Basic Economy fares (this is a positive change for Basic Economy travelers).
Important Note: While there's no specific weight limit for carry-on bags on American Airlines, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself. If overhead space is limited, you might be asked to gate-check your carry-on, sometimes for free, but if it's oversized, you could be charged.
1.3 Checked Bag (or Hold Luggage):
What it is: These are the bags you check in at the airport counter (or via kiosk/bag drop) and that travel in the plane's cargo hold. This is where most "bag fees" come into play.
Dimensions: Maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) should typically not exceed 62 inches (158 cm).
Weight: For Economy class, the standard weight limit is 50 lbs (23 kg). For First and Business Class passengers, it's typically 70 lbs (32 kg) for complimentary bags.
Cost: This is where it gets variable! Fees depend on your destination, fare type, AAdvantage status, and whether you have an eligible American Airlines credit card.
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| How To Buy A Bag On American Airlines |
Step 2: Determine Your Checked Bag Allowance and Fees
This is the most critical step for "buying a bag" on American Airlines, as this is where the costs often arise. Fees are generally per person, each way, and non-refundable.
2.1 Factors Influencing Fees:
Fare Class: Basic Economy fares often have higher fees for checked bags, especially for the first bag on international routes, compared to Main Cabin or higher.
Destination: Fees vary significantly based on your travel route (e.g., domestic U.S., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, South America, Transatlantic, Transpacific).
Number of Bags: The cost typically increases with each additional bag. The first bag is usually the cheapest, with subsequent bags costing more.
AAdvantage Status: Elite members (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum) often receive free checked bag allowances. The higher your status, the more free bags you get.
American Airlines Credit Cards: Many co-branded American Airlines credit cards offer a free first checked bag (and sometimes more) for the primary cardholder and companions on the same domestic itinerary. This is a fantastic way to save!
Military Personnel: Active U.S. military personnel and their dependents often receive generous free baggage allowances.
2.2 General Fee Guidelines (as of mid-2025 – always check the official AA website for the most current rates):
Domestic U.S. (including Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands):
First Checked Bag: $40 (or $35 if paid online or via the app)
Second Checked Bag: $45
Third Checked Bag: $150
Fourth+ Bags: $200 each
Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, Guyana:
First Checked Bag: $35
Second Checked Bag: $45
Transatlantic / Transpacific (e.g., Europe, Asia):
Often the first checked bag is free for Main Cabin and higher fares. Basic Economy fares may incur a fee (e.g., $75 for the first bag).
Second Checked Bag: Often around $100 or more.
Overweight Bags (51-70 lbs / 24-32 kg): Expect an additional fee of around $100-$200 per bag, depending on the route.
Overweight Bags (71-100 lbs / 33-45 kg): Expect an additional fee of around $200-$450 per bag, depending on the route. Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) are generally not accepted.
Oversized Bags (63-126 inches / 159-320 cm linear): Expect an additional fee of around $150-$200 per bag, depending on the route. Bags over 126 inches (320 cm) are generally not accepted.
Step 3: Choose Your Payment Method and Time
American Airlines offers several convenient ways to pay for your checked bags, and the timing can sometimes save you money.
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
3.1 Paying Online or via the American Airlines App (Recommended for Savings!):
When: Within 24 hours of your departure for domestic flights within and between the U.S. (including Hawaii and Alaska) and select markets in the Caribbean and Central America.
Benefit: You can save $5 on the first checked bag fee for travel within and between the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands when paying online or through the app. This is often the best price available.
How:
Log in to your American Airlines account or access your reservation using your confirmation code.
Go to your trip details and look for the "Check-in" section or "Bags" section.
You'll typically be prompted to declare and pay for your checked bags during the online check-in process.
Follow the on-screen instructions to select the number of bags and complete the payment using a credit card.
3.2 Paying at the Airport:
When: On the day of your flight, at the airport.
Where:
Self-Service Kiosk: Many airports have American Airlines self-service kiosks.
Scan your boarding pass or enter your confirmation code/AAdvantage number.
Follow the prompts to add and pay for your checked bags. You can often print bag tags directly from the kiosk.
This is often quicker than waiting in line at the counter.
Ticket Counter (with an American Airlines Agent): If you prefer personal assistance or have complex baggage needs (e.g., oversized, overweight, special items), you can pay at the full-service ticket counter.
Cost: Fees might be slightly higher than paying online (e.g., the $40 vs. $35 for a domestic first bag).
Step 4: Prepare Your Bag for Check-in
Once you've paid (or know you'll be paying), make sure your bag is ready for its journey.
4.1 Adhere to Size and Weight Limits:
Double-check the dimensions and weight of your bag to avoid unexpected oversized or overweight fees at the airport. Use a luggage scale if you have one.
Remember: 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 50 lbs (23 kg) for Economy are common guidelines.
4.2 Label Your Bag Clearly:
Attach a luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address both outside and inside your bag. This is crucial in case your bag is misplaced.
4.3 Remove Valuables and Essentials:
Never put medications, important documents (passport, ID), keys, jewelry, electronics (laptops, cameras, tablets), or large sums of cash in your checked luggage. These should always be in your carry-on or personal item.
4.4 Secure Your Bag:
Ensure all zippers are closed and any straps are tucked in to prevent snagging on conveyor belts. Consider using a TSA-approved lock for added security.
Step 5: Check Your Bag at the Airport
The final step is getting your bag into the system.
5.1 Bag Drop (if paid online/kiosk):
If you paid online or printed your bag tags at a kiosk, proceed to the designated "Bag Drop" area. This line is usually much faster than the full-service counter.
An agent will confirm your payment, apply the tag, and take your bag.
5.2 Full-Service Counter:
If you haven't paid or need assistance, go to the American Airlines ticket counter. An agent will assist you with checking in and paying for your bags.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to "buy a bag" on American Airlines and ensure your luggage reaches your destination safely and without any last-minute surprises.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common "How to" questions regarding American Airlines baggage, with quick answers:
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
How to Avoid American Airlines Baggage Fees?
You can often avoid fees by: having AAdvantage elite status, using an eligible American Airlines co-branded credit card, flying in a premium cabin (First, Business, Premium Economy), or by limiting yourself to a carry-on and personal item only.
How to Check My Bag Weight for American Airlines?
You can weigh your bag at home using a luggage scale or a standard bathroom scale (weigh yourself, then weigh yourself holding the bag, and subtract the difference). Most airports also have scales available before the check-in counter.
How to Find American Airlines Baggage Policy for My Specific Flight?
The most accurate way is to visit the official American Airlines website (aa.com), go to the "Travel Information" or "Baggage" section, and use their baggage calculator, which considers your origin, destination, and fare type.
QuickTip: Read step by step, not all at once.
How to Add a Bag to My American Airlines Reservation After Booking?
You can usually add bags during the online check-in process within 24 hours of your flight, or directly at an American Airlines self-service kiosk or ticket counter at the airport.
How to Know if My Carry-On Bag is the Right Size for American Airlines?
Measure your bag, including handles and wheels. It should be no more than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). American Airlines has sizers at the airport to check if your bag fits.
How to Claim a Refund for American Airlines Baggage Fees?
If you believe you were incorrectly charged for bag fees, contact an American Airlines representative for help or file a refund claim within 45 days through their customer service channels.
How to Pack Smart to Maximize Carry-On Space on American Airlines?
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, wear your bulkiest items, and utilize your personal item effectively for smaller essentials. Travel-sized toiletries are also key.
How to Check Special Items (e.g., sports equipment, musical instruments) on American Airlines?
Special items may have unique fees, dimensions, and weight restrictions. Consult the "Special Items" or "Baggage" section on the American Airlines website for specific guidelines for items like golf clubs, skis, or musical instruments.
How to Pay for an Overweight or Oversized Bag on American Airlines?
Overweight and oversized bag fees are typically assessed and paid at the airport, either at a self-service kiosk or at the ticket counter, in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
How to Track My Checked Bag on American Airlines?
Once your bag is checked, you can often track its journey using the American Airlines mobile app under your flight details, or by inputting your baggage tag number on their website.
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