Traveling with checked luggage can sometimes feel like a gamble. Will your bags make it to your destination? Will they be easy to identify on the baggage carousel? This is where luggage tags come in! While American Airlines provides basic paper tags at the airport, there are several ways to get more durable, personalized, or even priority luggage tags that can make your travel experience smoother.
So, are you ready to learn exactly how to get your hands on American Airlines luggage tags and ensure your bags stand out from the crowd? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understanding the Different Types of American Airlines Luggage Tags
Before we get into how to get them, it's essential to know what kinds of tags are available. American Airlines, like most carriers, offers a few options, each with its own benefits.
Sub-heading: The Basic, Provided Tags
When you check your bag at the airport, whether at a self-service kiosk or with an agent, you'll receive a standard paper luggage tag. This tag is printed with your flight details, destination, and a barcode for tracking.
Pros: Free, readily available, essential for tracking your bag through the system.
Cons: Can tear easily, not very durable, doesn't help your bag stand out visually.
Sub-heading: Personalized and Branded Tags
American Airlines offers opportunities to purchase more durable, personalized luggage tags, often through their AAdvantage® program or Admirals Club®. These usually feature the American Airlines logo, AAdvantage® branding, or Admirals Club® branding, and can be customized with your name and contact information.
Pros: Durable, professional appearance, helps identify your bag quickly, can convey elite status.
Cons: Not free, requires ordering in advance.
Sub-heading: Priority Luggage Tags
If you're a high-tier AAdvantage® elite member (Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, Platinum), travel in First or Business Class, or are a oneworld® Emerald or Sapphire member, your checked bags are typically tagged with Priority tags. These tags signal to baggage handlers that your luggage should be among the first offloaded from the plane at your destination.
Pros: Expedited baggage delivery, a significant convenience for frequent travelers.
Cons: Only available to eligible passengers, not something you can generally "buy" separately.
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| How To Get American Airlines Luggage Tags |
Step 2: Getting Your Hands on Basic American Airlines Luggage Tags at the Airport
This is the most common and straightforward method.
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Sub-heading: At the Self-Service Kiosk
Many airports offer self-service kiosks where you can check in for your flight and print your boarding pass and baggage tags.
Locate a Kiosk: Upon arrival at the airport, look for American Airlines self-service kiosks in the check-in area.
Scan Your Boarding Pass or Enter Information: You'll typically be prompted to scan your mobile or printed boarding pass, or enter your confirmation code or AAdvantage® number.
Confirm Your Flight Details: Verify your flight information on the screen.
Declare and Pay for Bags (if applicable): If you're checking bags, the kiosk will guide you through the process of declaring the number of bags and paying any applicable fees.
Print Your Bag Tags: Once confirmed, the kiosk will print your adhesive baggage tags.
Attach Tags to Your Bags: Carefully follow the instructions on the tag or the kiosk screen to attach the tags securely to your luggage handles. Ensure the barcode is clearly visible and not creased.
Proceed to Bag Drop: Take your tagged bags to the designated "Bag Drop" area.
Sub-heading: With an American Airlines Agent
If you prefer human assistance, have oversized/overweight bags, or are traveling with special items, head to the American Airlines check-in counter.
Join the Appropriate Line: Look for the "Checked Baggage" or "Full Service" line.
Present Your ID and Booking Information: Have your government-issued ID and flight confirmation ready.
Inform the Agent of Bags to Check: Tell the agent how many bags you're checking.
Pay Any Fees: The agent will process any baggage fees if they apply.
Agent Prints and Attaches Tags: The agent will print the baggage tags and often attach them to your bags for you. They will then direct you where to place your bags.
Step 3: Purchasing Personalized American Airlines Luggage Tags Online
For those who want a more durable and professional-looking tag, American Airlines offers a way to purchase personalized tags.
Visit the Official American Airlines Luggage Tag Website: American Airlines typically has a dedicated section for purchasing luggage tags. A quick search for "American Airlines luggage tags" should lead you to the correct page, often managed through a partner like Points.com. The official link historically has been
www.aa.com/luggagetags Choose Your Tag Type:
AAdvantage® Personalized Tags: These are available for AAdvantage® members. If you have elite status (Gold, Platinum, Executive Platinum), you can usually order tags that reflect your elite level.
Admirals Club® Personalized Tags: If you are an Admirals Club® member, you can order tags with the Admirals Club® branding.
General AAdvantage® Tags: Even if you don't have elite status, general AAdvantage® personalized tags are usually available for purchase.
Customize Your Tags: You'll be prompted to enter the name you wish to appear on the tags. Ensure it matches the name on your travel documents.
Select Quantity: You can typically order multiple sets of tags at once.
Provide Shipping Information: Enter your shipping address. Be aware that delivery can take approximately 4-6 weeks.
Complete Purchase: Pay for your order using a major credit card. AAdvantage® miles generally cannot be used for luggage tag purchases.
Confirm Your Order: You'll receive an order confirmation. Keep this handy for tracking your order.
Sub-heading: Ordering for Someone Else
You can also order personalized tags for someone else. In this case, you typically choose either the AAdvantage (non-elite) or the Admirals Club design and enter the recipient's name during the purchase process.
Step 4: Understanding and Utilizing Priority Luggage Tags
Priority tags are not something you typically request or purchase directly. They are a benefit of your elite status or class of service.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
Sub-heading: Eligibility for Priority Tags
You are generally eligible for Priority baggage handling and tags if you are:
Traveling in First Class or Business Class (on eligible flights, particularly international or transcontinental).
An AAdvantage® Executive Platinum® member.
An AAdvantage® Platinum Pro® member.
An AAdvantage® Platinum® member.
An AirPass℠ traveler.
A oneworld® Emerald or Sapphire member.
Sub-heading: How Priority Tags Are Applied
When you check your bags at the American Airlines counter (or self-service kiosk if the benefit is automatically recognized), the system will identify your eligibility, and Priority bag tags will be affixed to your luggage. You do not need to ask for them if you are eligible.
Important Note: This service generally applies only when your bags are checked directly with American Airlines. If your trip originates with another airline, even if connecting to an American Airlines flight, you might not receive Priority bag delivery unless American Airlines is the first carrier to check your bags.
Step 5: Tips for Using Your Luggage Tags Effectively
Regardless of the type of tag you use, here are some essential tips for effective luggage tagging:
Always Use a Tag: Never check a bag without a tag. Even if your bag is lost, a tag vastly increases the chances of it being reunited with you.
Include Key Information: While personalized tags have your name, consider adding a phone number or email address on a separate, hidden tag inside your luggage as well, just in case the outer tag is damaged or lost.
Remove Old Tags: Before checking in, always remove any old baggage tags from previous flights. This prevents confusion in the baggage handling system.
Secure Attachment: Ensure your tags are securely fastened to a sturdy handle on your bag. For paper tags, reinforce them if possible, or use a plastic luggage tag holder.
Take a Photo: Before you check your bag, take a quick photo of your luggage with the new tag visible. This can be incredibly helpful if your bag is lost and you need to provide details to the airline.
Consider a Unique Identifier: Besides the tag, consider adding a colorful ribbon, strap, or unique sticker to your bag to make it easier to spot on the carousel, even with a standard tag.
Step 6: What to Do if Your Luggage Tag is Lost or Your Bag is Delayed/Damaged
Even with the best preparation, sometimes things go wrong.
Sub-heading: If a Tag is Lost Mid-Journey
If you notice a tag missing from your bag after a connection or during a layover, immediately inform an American Airlines agent. They can often re-tag your bag.
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Sub-heading: If Your Bag is Delayed or Damaged
American Airlines has a clear process for delayed or damaged bags:
Report Immediately: If your bag doesn't arrive on the carousel or appears damaged, file a report before leaving the airport. Look for the American Airlines Baggage Service Office or scan a QR code at Baggage Claim to file a report on your device.
Get a File ID: The agent will provide you with a 13-character file ID. Keep this number safe, as it's crucial for tracking and submitting claims.
Track Your Bag Online: You can use your file ID to track the status of your delayed bag on the American Airlines website.
Reimbursement for Essentials: If your bag is delayed, American Airlines may reimburse you for reasonable and necessary items you need immediately while away from home. Keep all original, dated, itemized receipts.
Submit a Claim: If your bag is truly lost (typically after 5 days or more, and a final determination by the airline) or significantly damaged, you can submit an online claim using your file ID.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help you further:
How to get generic luggage tags for my bags?
You can purchase generic, durable luggage tags from most travel stores, online retailers (like Amazon), or even many department stores. These often come in various colors and styles and allow you to insert your contact information.
How to print American Airlines luggage tags at home?
American Airlines currently does not offer the option to print official checked baggage tags at home for self-tagging. You must print them at an airport kiosk or have an agent print them for you. However, some international airlines do offer this feature.
How to order personalized American Airlines luggage tags online?
You can order personalized AAdvantage® or Admirals Club® luggage tags through American Airlines' designated website, which is often managed by Points.com. Look for "luggage tags" on aa.com or search directly for "American Airlines personalized luggage tags."
How to get priority luggage tags from American Airlines?
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Priority luggage tags are a benefit for eligible passengers, including First/Business Class travelers and AAdvantage® elite members (Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, Platinum), as well as oneworld® Emerald and Sapphire members. They are automatically applied at check-in if you are eligible. You cannot purchase them separately.
How to track my American Airlines checked luggage?
You can track your checked luggage using the American Airlines app or website. If your bag is delayed, you'll be given a 13-character file ID when you report it, which you can use to check its status online.
How to replace a lost American Airlines luggage tag during my trip?
If you notice a luggage tag is missing mid-journey (e.g., during a layover), immediately contact an American Airlines agent at the airport. They can often re-tag your bag to ensure it reaches your final destination.
How to avoid baggage fees on American Airlines?
Baggage fees vary by fare class, destination, and AAdvantage® status. Ways to avoid fees include being an AAdvantage® elite member, flying in First or Business Class, or holding certain American Airlines co-branded credit cards that offer free checked bags. Check American Airlines' baggage policy on their website for specific details.
How to pack my carry-on bag for American Airlines to avoid checking a bag?
American Airlines allows one carry-on bag (max 22 x 14 x 9 inches) and one personal item (max 18 x 14 x 8 inches) fee-free. To avoid checking a bag, utilize packing cubes, roll clothes tightly, wear bulky items, and use travel-sized liquids (3-1-1 rule).
How to report a damaged bag with American Airlines?
If your bag is damaged, report it to American Airlines before leaving the airport. Find the Baggage Service Office. You'll receive a file incident number to submit a claim. For domestic flights, report within 24 hours of receiving your bag; for international flights, within 7 days.
How to find the American Airlines baggage claim at the airport?
Upon arrival, follow the signs for "Baggage Claim" or "Baggage Reclaim." American Airlines' baggage carousel numbers are typically displayed on overhead monitors or digital screens in the baggage claim area.
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