Do you dread the airport chaos, the long lines at the check-in counter, and the scramble to get your bags sorted before your flight? What if I told you there's a much simpler way to handle your checked luggage for your American Airlines flight, right from the palm of your hand? That's right, the American Airlines mobile app is your secret weapon for a smoother, more efficient travel experience. Let's dive in and master the art of checking bags with just a few taps!
Step 1: Get the American Airlines App and Log In
Ready to revolutionize your travel routine?
Download the App: First things first, if you haven't already, download the official American Airlines app from your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS). It's free and indispensable for modern air travel.
Open and Log In: Once downloaded, open the app. You'll then want to log in. You have a few options here:
AAdvantage Account: The easiest way is to log in with your AAdvantage account. This will automatically pull up all your upcoming trips associated with your membership.
Confirmation Number: If you don't have an AAdvantage account or prefer not to log in, you can usually access your trip by entering your 6-character confirmation code (also known as a record locator) and your last name.
E-ticket Number: Another option is to use your 13-digit e-ticket number.
Pro Tip: Logging in with your AAdvantage account not only makes bag checking easier but also allows you to track your miles, loyalty status, and even rebook flights in case of disruptions!
Step 2: Access Your Trip and Begin Check-in
Now that you're in, let's find your flight!
Navigate to "Trips" or "Check In": Once logged in, look for a section or tab labeled "Trips" or directly "Check In" on the app's home screen. The app's dynamic home screen is designed to know where you are in your travel journey, so it often presents the most relevant options first.
Select Your Flight: Find the flight you want to check bags for and tap on it. This will open up your specific trip details.
Initiate Check-in: You'll see an option to "Check In." Tap this to begin the check-in process. Remember, you can usually start checking in 24 hours before your scheduled departure and up to 2 hours before for domestic flights. For international flights, the cut-off time may vary, so it's always best to check well in advance.
Step 3: Confirm Passengers and Review Details
This is where you ensure everything is accurate before moving to baggage.
Review Passenger Information: The app will display the names of all passengers on your reservation. Confirm that all travelers who will be checking bags are selected. If you're traveling with multiple passengers on the same reservation, you might need to select bags and check in at a kiosk together at the airport for certain scenarios, especially if you're checking more than three bags per person.
Verify Flight Details: Double-check your flight number, departure time, and destination to ensure you're checking in for the correct flight. This helps avoid any last-minute airport surprises!
Step 4: The All-Important Baggage Section
This is where the magic happens!
Locate "Add Bags" or "Bags": As you proceed through the check-in flow, you'll encounter a section specifically for baggage. This might be labeled "Add Bags," "Bags," or "Checked Bags." Tap on this.
Indicate Number of Bags: The app will prompt you to indicate how many bags you intend to check for each passenger. Be accurate here! The fees are calculated per bag.
Understand Bag Fees: American Airlines displays the applicable baggage fees right in the app. These fees can vary based on your fare type (e.g., Basic Economy usually doesn't include free checked bags), your destination (domestic vs. international), and your AAdvantage elite status or eligible credit card.
For instance, for many domestic flights, your first checked bag might be $35 if paid online, and the second around $45. These prices are often cheaper when paid online or via the app compared to at the airport.
Elite Status/Credit Card Holders: If you have AAdvantage Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum status, or an eligible Citi® / AAdvantage® credit card, you may be entitled to free checked bags. The app should automatically recognize this and adjust the fees accordingly.
Review Baggage Allowance and Restrictions: Before you confirm, it's a good idea to quickly review American Airlines' baggage policy linked within the app or on their website. This includes:
Weight Limits: Typically 50 lbs (23 kg) for most economy fares. Overweight bags incur additional charges.
Size Limits: Standard dimensions usually apply (sum of length + width + height). Oversized bags also incur additional charges.
Special Items: If you're checking items like sports equipment or musical instruments, be aware that these often have specific rules and fees, and may need to be handled at the airport.
Step 5: Payment and Confirmation
The final step before you're all set!
Proceed to Payment: Once you've selected your bags and reviewed the fees, the app will direct you to the payment screen. Enter your credit card details securely within the app.
Confirm Payment: Double-check the total amount and confirm your payment. You will receive a confirmation of your baggage payment.
Receive Boarding Pass: After successfully paying for your bags and completing the check-in process, you'll be issued your mobile boarding pass directly in the app. You can save this to your device's wallet (Apple Wallet, Google Wallet) for easy access. This is your key to skipping the initial check-in lines at the airport!
Step 6: Airport Day – Bag Drop-Off
You've done the hard part, now for the easy part!
Head to the Bag Drop: On the day of your flight, head straight to the American Airlines bag drop counter at the airport. You no longer need to wait in the full check-in line.
Scan Boarding Pass and Get Tags: At the bag drop, you'll present your mobile boarding pass (either from the app or your digital wallet). The agent will scan it, confirm your pre-paid bags, and print your baggage tags. In some airports, you might even be able to use self-service kiosks to print your bag tags by scanning your boarding pass.
Attach Tags and Hand Over: Attach the tags securely to your bags and hand them over to the American Airlines staff.
Track Your Bag: A fantastic feature of the American Airlines app is its bag tracking. From the moment you check your bag, you can track its journey from check-in to loading, and finally, to baggage claim at your destination. This provides immense peace of mind!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to pre-pay for bags on the American Airlines app?
You can pre-pay for bags during the online or app check-in process, which typically opens 24 hours before your flight and closes 2 hours prior for most domestic flights. Simply navigate to the "Bags" section during check-in.
How to add checked bags on the American Airlines app after checking in?
Generally, once you've completed the check-in process on the app, you cannot add additional bags through the app. You will need to add and pay for any additional bags directly at the American Airlines counter or a self-service kiosk at the airport.
How to find American Airlines baggage fees on the app?
Baggage fees are displayed prominently in the "Bags" section during the check-in process on the app. You can also find a detailed breakdown of fees on the American Airlines website under their "Bags" or "Optional Services Fees" sections.
How to know my baggage allowance on American Airlines?
Your specific baggage allowance (number of free bags, weight, and size limits) depends on your fare type, destination, and any AAdvantage elite status or co-branded credit card benefits. This information is usually displayed during the booking process, on your e-ticket confirmation, and within the baggage section during app check-in.
How to track my checked bag on the American Airlines app?
After checking your bags at the airport, you can track their status within the American Airlines app. Look for a "Track Your Bag" or similar option within your trip details, which will show you real-time updates on your bag's location.
How to get my mobile boarding pass after checking bags on the app?
Once you complete the check-in process and pay for any bags, your mobile boarding pass will be generated within the American Airlines app. You can usually find it on the main trip screen or an option to "View Boarding Pass." You can also often add it to your phone's digital wallet.
How to change the number of checked bags after selecting them on the app?
If you haven't completed the payment and check-in process, you might be able to go back and adjust the number of bags within the app's check-in flow. However, if payment is complete, you'll likely need to handle any changes or additions at the airport.
How to get a refund for pre-paid bags if my flight is canceled or changed?
If your flight is canceled or you're rebooked by American Airlines, any pre-paid baggage fees are typically refundable or transferable to your new flight. It's best to contact American Airlines customer service for specific guidance on refunds.
How to use Express Bag Tags with the American Airlines app?
Some airports offer "Express Bag Tags." You can add bags online or in the app during check-in, pay if needed, and then simply scan your mobile boarding pass at a self-service kiosk at the airport to print your bag tags automatically.
How to get help with baggage issues via the American Airlines app?
The American Airlines app offers various support options. You can often access 24/7 virtual help through its chat tool, or find contact information to speak directly with a team member for any baggage-related questions or issues (e.g., delayed or damaged bags).
