Preparing for your American Airlines flight and wondering how to navigate the checked baggage process? You've come to the right place! Checking a bag can seem daunting, especially with varying fees and regulations, but with this comprehensive guide, you'll be a pro in no time. Let's get started and make your travel experience as smooth as possible!
A Comprehensive Guide: How to Check a Bag with American Airlines
Checking a bag with American Airlines involves understanding their policies on size, weight, fees, and the process itself, whether online, via the app, or at the airport. Here's your step-by-step guide:
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| How To Check A Bag American Airlines |
Step 1: Understand American Airlines Baggage Policies (Before You Even Pack!)
Before you even think about packing, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with American Airlines' baggage policies. This will save you time, money, and potential headaches at the airport.
Sub-heading: Know Your Baggage Allowance
Carry-on vs. Checked: American Airlines generally allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger, free of charge. Your carry-on must fit in the overhead bin (typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm) and your personal item under the seat in front of you (typically 18 x 14 x 8 inches or 45 x 35 x 20 cm). Checked bags, however, usually incur fees.
Standard Checked Bag Dimensions & Weight: For most routes, a standard checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and weigh more than 50 lbs (23 kg) for Economy class. For First/Business Class passengers, the weight limit is typically 70 lbs (32 kg). Exceeding these limits will result in additional fees.
Number of Bags: You can generally check up to 10 bags on American Airlines operated flights for domestic, Transatlantic, and Transpacific routes. For travel including the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, and South America, this limit is usually 5 bags. Be aware that each additional bag beyond your allowance will incur a higher fee.
Sub-heading: Fees, Fees, Fees!
Baggage fees vary significantly based on your destination, fare type, and AAdvantage® status.
Domestic US Flights (including Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands): The first checked bag typically costs around $35-$40 (often $5 cheaper if paid online), and the second bag around $45. Subsequent bags can go up to $150-$200 per bag.
International Flights: Fees for international travel can differ widely. Some international routes may include a free checked bag, while others will charge. For instance, Transatlantic and Transpacific flights often have a free first bag for Main Cabin fares, but Basic Economy can incur a fee.
Overweight and Oversize Fees: These are in addition to standard checked bag fees.
Bags between 51-70 lbs (24-32 kg) often incur a $100 fee.
Bags between 71-100 lbs (33-45 kg) can cost $200 (and may not be accepted on all routes). Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) are generally not accepted as checked baggage.
Bags between 62-125 linear inches (158-320 cm) can incur a $150-$200 fee depending on the region. Bags over 125 linear inches (320 cm) are not accepted.
Saving Money on Fees:
Pay Online/App: American Airlines often offers a slight discount (e.g., $5) if you pay for your first checked bag online or through their mobile app during check-in, usually within 24 hours to 2 hours before departure.
AAdvantage® Credit Cards: Many American Airlines co-branded credit cards offer a free first checked bag for the cardholder and a certain number of companions on the same reservation. This is a significant saving for frequent travelers.
AAdvantage® Status/Oneworld® Status: Elite members (AAdvantage Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum, and Oneworld equivalents) typically receive complimentary checked bag allowances.
Sub-heading: Restricted Items
Before packing, be aware of items that are prohibited or restricted in checked baggage by both American Airlines and the TSA. Common examples include:
Prohibited: Explosives, flammable liquids, certain chemicals, self-balancing devices (hoverboards), and bear spray.
Restricted/Special Handling: Firearms (must be unloaded, declared, and properly packed in a locked, hard-sided container), ammunition, aerosols, and large quantities of alcohol (over 70% ABV is generally forbidden). Always check the latest TSA guidelines and American Airlines' specific policies for detailed lists.
Step 2: Pack Smart and Secure Your Luggage
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
Once you understand the rules, it's time to pack! Smart packing can prevent issues and ensure your belongings arrive safely.
Sub-heading: Weigh and Measure Your Bags
Use a Luggage Scale: Invest in a small, portable luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the weight limits before you leave for the airport. This is a small investment that can save you significant overweight baggage fees.
Measure Dimensions: If you're close to the size limits, use a measuring tape to confirm your bag's length, width, and height (including handles and wheels).
Sub-heading: Secure Your Luggage
Lock It Up: Use TSA-approved locks on your checked bags. These locks can be opened by TSA agents for inspection without damaging your luggage.
Luggage Tags: Place a durable luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address on the outside of your bag. It's also a good idea to put a copy of your itinerary and contact information inside your bag in case the external tag gets lost.
Fragile Items: While checked bags are not ideal for fragile items, if you must check them, ensure they are extremely well-padded and clearly marked as "Fragile." American Airlines generally disclaims liability for fragile items.
Valuables: Never put valuables like jewelry, electronics, important documents, medication, or large sums of cash in your checked luggage. Always keep these items in your carry-on bag.
Step 3: Choose Your Check-in Method
American Airlines offers several convenient ways to check in and add your bags.
Sub-heading: Online Check-in (Recommended!)
Availability: You can check in online via aa.com or the American Airlines mobile app starting 24 hours and up to 45 minutes before domestic flights (90 minutes for international flights).
Process:
Go to aa.com or open the American Airlines app.
Select "Check in" and enter your last name and confirmation code, eTicket number, or AAdvantage® number.
Follow the prompts to confirm your flight details.
You will be given the option to "Add Bags" or "Pay for Bags." Select this option.
Declare the number of bags you intend to check.
The system will calculate the applicable fees based on your itinerary, fare type, and status.
Pay for your bags using a credit card. Remember, paying online often gives you the best price!
After payment, you will receive confirmation and sometimes the option to print "Express Bag Tags" (more on this below).
Benefit: This is often the fastest and most cost-effective way to handle checked bags, as you can save money on fees and avoid lines at the airport.
Sub-heading: Mobile App Check-in
The process is very similar to online check-in. The American Airlines app allows you to manage your trip, check in, pay for bags, and even track your checked bags once they're tagged. It's an incredibly useful tool for modern travelers!
Sub-heading: Airport Check-in (Kiosk or Counter)
Self-Service Kiosk:
At the airport, locate an American Airlines self-service kiosk.
Scan your passport, enter your confirmation code, or swipe your credit card (if used for booking) to pull up your reservation.
Follow the on-screen instructions to check in.
You'll be prompted to declare and pay for your checked bags.
The kiosk will then print your boarding pass and bag tags.
Attach the bag tags securely to the handle of each checked bag.
Proceed to the "Bag Drop" counter.
Full-Service Counter:
If you prefer speaking to an agent, have special circumstances (e.g., oversized/overweight bags that need approval, unique sports equipment, or international travel with complex documentation), or simply prefer assistance, go to the American Airlines check-in counter.
An agent will assist you with the check-in process, declare your bags, collect payment, and print your bag tags.
They will then take your bags for you.
Step 4: Bag Drop and Security
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This is the final physical step before your bags are on their way!
Sub-heading: Tagging Your Bags
If you checked in online or via the app and are at an airport with "Express Bag Tags," you can simply scan your mobile or printed boarding pass at a kiosk to print your bag tags.
Securely attach one bag tag to the handle of each checked bag. Ensure the barcode is visible and the tag is firmly attached.
Sub-heading: Proceed to Bag Drop
After checking in and tagging your bags (either yourself at a kiosk or with an agent), locate the "Bag Drop" area. This is typically a designated counter or belt where you hand over your tagged luggage.
An agent will scan your bag tag and place your bag on the conveyor belt. They might ask you a few security questions about your luggage.
Important: Hold onto your baggage claim receipts! These small stickers or printed slips contain a tracking number and are your only proof that you checked a bag. You'll need them if your bag is delayed or lost.
Sub-heading: Security Screening
Once your bags are on the conveyor, they will go through TSA security screening. In some cases, TSA may need to open your bag for inspection. If this happens, they typically leave a "Notice of Baggage Inspection" inside your bag.
Step 5: Tracking Your Bag (Optional but Recommended!)
American Airlines offers a convenient way to track your bag for peace of mind.
Sub-heading: Using the American Airlines App
Through the American Airlines mobile app, you can often track your checked bag from the moment it's checked in until it arrives at your destination's baggage claim. This feature uses the barcode on your bag tag.
Simply navigate to your trip details in the app, and there should be a "Track My Bags" or similar option.
Step 6: Baggage Claim at Your Destination
The final step of your checked baggage journey!
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
Sub-heading: Retrieving Your Bags
Upon arrival at your destination, follow the signs to "Baggage Claim."
Locate the carousel assigned to your flight number (this information is usually displayed on screens in the baggage claim area).
Wait for your bags to appear on the carousel. Double-check the bag tag to ensure you're picking up your own luggage!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to: Add a checked bag to an existing American Airlines reservation?
You can add and pay for checked bags during the online check-in process on aa.com or via the American Airlines mobile app, starting 24 hours before your flight and up to 2 hours before departure. You can also do it at an airport kiosk or check-in counter.
How to: Find American Airlines baggage fees for my specific flight?
The easiest way is to use the baggage calculator on the American Airlines website (
How to: Avoid American Airlines checked baggage fees?
You can often avoid fees by: having an eligible AAdvantage® co-branded credit card that offers a free first checked bag, holding AAdvantage® elite status or Oneworld® elite status, flying in a premium cabin (First, Business, Premium Economy), or traveling on certain international routes where a checked bag is included.
How to: Deal with an overweight or oversized bag on American Airlines?
If your bag exceeds the standard weight (50 lbs/23 kg for Economy) or dimensions (62 linear inches), you will incur additional fees. Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) or 125 linear inches (320 cm) are generally not accepted. It's best to repack or consider shipping alternatives if your bag is excessively large or heavy.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
How to: Check special items or sports equipment with American Airlines?
American Airlines has specific policies and fees for special items like sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, bicycles) and musical instruments. You should check their website's "Special items and sports equipment" section for detailed guidelines and associated costs, as they often have different dimensions and weight rules.
How to: Track my checked bag with American Airlines?
You can track your checked bag using the American Airlines mobile app. After your bag is scanned at check-in, the app's "Track My Bags" feature will show you its journey.
How to: Report a lost or delayed bag with American Airlines?
If your bag is delayed or lost, immediately go to the American Airlines Baggage Service Office at the airport before leaving. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and keep the reference number. You can also contact American Airlines customer service for assistance.
How to: Handle damaged luggage after an American Airlines flight?
Report damaged luggage to the American Airlines Baggage Service Office at the airport before leaving the airport. Take photos of the damage and keep your baggage claim tag and boarding pass. File a claim within 24 hours for domestic flights and 7 days for international flights.
How to: Know what items are prohibited in checked bags by American Airlines?
Refer to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website (tsa.gov) and American Airlines' "Restricted Items" section on their website for a comprehensive list of prohibited and restricted items for both carry-on and checked baggage.
How to: Check a car seat or stroller for free with American Airlines?
American Airlines generally allows car seats and strollers to be checked free of charge in addition to your regular baggage allowance. You can check them at the ticket counter, curbside, or even at the gate.
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