Planning a trip with American Airlines? Don't get caught off guard by baggage fees at the airport! Paying for your bags in advance using the American Airlines iPhone app can save you time, stress, and even some money. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Ready to streamline your travel? Let's dive in!
Paying for Bags on the American Airlines App (iPhone): A Step-by-Step Guide
Paying for your checked bags via the American Airlines app is a smart move. It's generally cheaper than paying at the airport, and it allows you to bypass extra steps at the check-in counter, especially if you're only checking bags and don't need a full-service check-in.
Step 1: Download and Log In to the American Airlines App
First things first, you'll need the American Airlines app on your iPhone. If you don't have it already, now's the time!
1.1. Get the App:
Open the App Store on your iPhone.
In the search bar, type "American Airlines" and tap Search.
Locate the official American Airlines app (it will usually have their distinctive eagle logo).
Tap the "Get" button (or the cloud icon if you've downloaded it before) to install. You may need to authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password.
1.2. Open and Log In:
Once the app is installed, tap the American Airlines icon on your home screen to open it.
You'll likely be prompted to log in. You have a few options:
AAdvantage® Number and Password: This is the most recommended way, as it links directly to your frequent flyer account and often auto-populates your reservations.
Record Locator and Last Name: If you don't have an AAdvantage® account or prefer not to log in, you can enter your 6-character PNR (Passenger Name Record) or confirmation code, along with the last name on the reservation.
Remember to keep your login credentials handy! If you forget your password, there will be an option to reset it.
Step 2: Access Your Trip and Begin Check-in
Once you're logged in, it's time to find your flight and initiate the check-in process, which is where bag payment usually happens.
2.1. Navigate to Your Trips:
On the app's home screen, you should see an option like "My Trips," "Upcoming Trips," or a similar section displaying your booked flights. Tap on it.
If your trip isn't immediately visible, you might need to manually add it using your record locator and last name, even if you're logged in.
2.2. Initiate Online Check-in:
American Airlines allows online check-in starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This is also when you can pay for your bags.
Tap on the specific flight you wish to check in for.
Look for a button that says "Check In" or "Start Check-in." Tap it.
The app will guide you through a series of screens confirming your personal details, passport information (for international flights), and any required travel declarations. Be sure to review all information carefully.
Step 3: Select and Pay for Your Checked Bags
This is the core of the process where you specify how many bags you're checking and complete the payment.
3.1. Declare Your Bags:
After completing the initial check-in steps, you will reach a screen related to baggage. It will typically ask, "How many bags will you be checking?"
Carefully select the number of bags you intend to check for each passenger on your reservation.
The app will automatically display the applicable fees for each bag based on your destination, fare class, and AAdvantage® status (if applicable).
Pro Tip: Paying online often offers a slight discount compared to paying at the airport. For example, for domestic flights within the U.S., the first checked bag might be $35 online versus $40 at the airport. This can vary by route and specific fare type.
3.2. Review Bag Fees and Policies:
Before proceeding, take a moment to review the displayed bag fees. American Airlines' baggage policy can be complex and depends on several factors:
Destination: Fees vary significantly for domestic, international, and specific regions (e.g., Caribbean, Central America, Transatlantic, Transpacific).
Fare Type: Basic Economy fares generally have stricter baggage rules and may not include any free checked bags, even where Main Cabin fares do.
AAdvantage® Status: Elite members (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum) often receive free checked bag allowances.
Credit Card Holder: Many American Airlines co-branded credit cards offer a free first checked bag for the cardholder and companions on the same reservation for domestic flights. Ensure your AAdvantage® number is linked to your reservation for these benefits to apply.
Weight and Size Limits: While paying for bags, also remember American's standard limits: 50 lbs (23 kgs) and 62 linear inches (length + width + height) for Economy/Premium Economy. Overweight or oversized bags incur additional, often hefty, fees.
3.3. Proceed to Payment:
Once you've confirmed the number of bags and understood the fees, tap the "Continue" or "Pay Now" button.
You will be redirected to the payment screen.
Step 4: Complete Your Payment
American Airlines offers various payment methods within the app.
4.1. Choose Your Payment Method:
The app supports standard credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, etc.).
If you have a saved payment method in your American Airlines profile, you can select it for quick checkout.
Other options may include PayPal (for U.S. and UK residents), Citi® Flex Pay (for eligible Citi® / AAdvantage® cardmembers), or even American Airlines Gift Cards/Flight Discounts for the flight portion, though these typically don't cover bag fees. For bag fees, credit/debit cards and PayPal are the most common and reliable.
4.2. Enter Payment Details:
Input your credit card number, expiration date, security code (CVV), and billing address as prompted.
Double-check all information to avoid payment processing issues.
4.3. Confirm and Process Payment:
Review the final amount and then tap "Confirm Payment" or a similar button to process the transaction.
You'll receive a confirmation message once the payment is successful. Keep a screenshot or note of this confirmation.
Step 5: Obtain Your Boarding Pass and Bag Tags (Express Bag Tags)
After successful payment, your check-in is complete, and you'll receive your boarding pass. American Airlines also offers "Express Bag Tags" at select airports.
5.1. Get Your Mobile Boarding Pass:
The app will display your mobile boarding pass. You can usually add this to your Apple Wallet for easy access at the airport security checkpoint and gate.
It's always a good idea to take a screenshot of your boarding pass as a backup, just in case you lose internet connectivity.
5.2. Utilize Express Bag Tags (Where Available):
At many airports, American Airlines has self-service kiosks with "Express Bag Tags."
How it works: After checking in and paying for bags on the app, you can scan your mobile boarding pass at these kiosks. The kiosk will automatically print your bag tags for you.
Attach these tags securely to your checked bags.
Proceed to the designated Bag Drop area where an agent will verify your tags and take your luggage. This often bypasses the need to wait in the full check-in line.
5.3. If Express Bag Tags are Not Available or Preferred:
If Express Bag Tags aren't available at your airport, or if you prefer full assistance, you will still proceed to the American Airlines check-in counter or a self-service kiosk (if available) to have an agent print your bag tags and accept your luggage. Having paid in advance on the app will still speed up this process.
Important Considerations:
Timing is Key: While you can check in and pay for bags starting 24 hours before your flight, it's highly recommended to do so as soon as possible. This gives you ample time to troubleshoot any app issues or payment problems without the pressure of a looming departure.
Non-Refundable Fees: Baggage fees are generally non-refundable, even if you end up not checking a bag. Make sure of your needs before paying.
Codeshare Flights: If your itinerary includes flights operated by partner airlines (codeshare flights), the baggage policies of the operating carrier might apply. Always double-check if your flight is operated by American Airlines or a partner.
Keep Your Devices Charged: Your iPhone is now your boarding pass and payment confirmation. Ensure it's adequately charged, especially on travel day!
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to pay for your bags on the American Airlines iPhone app, making your pre-flight experience as smooth as possible. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to paying for bags on American Airlines:
How to check if I have free checked bags on American Airlines?
You can check for free checked bags by reviewing your booking confirmation, logging into your AAdvantage® account on the American Airlines app or website, or checking the baggage policy page on aa.com, which details allowances based on fare type, AAdvantage® status, and credit card benefits.
How to find American Airlines baggage fees for my specific flight?
To find specific baggage fees, log into the American Airlines app or website with your reservation, initiate the check-in process (within 24 hours of departure), and the applicable fees for your route and fare type will be displayed on the baggage declaration screen.
How to add a second bag after already paying for one on the app?
Typically, if you've already completed check-in and paid for one bag, the app may not allow you to add more bags for security reasons. You will likely need to add and pay for the additional bag at the airport check-in counter or a self-service kiosk.
How to get a refund for baggage fees if my flight is canceled?
If your flight is canceled and you do not rebook or are rebooked on a flight where bags are no longer needed, you may be eligible for a refund. Contact American Airlines customer service directly or submit a refund request through their website within 45 days of the original flight.
How to pay for an overweight or oversized bag on the American Airlines app?
The American Airlines app primarily handles standard baggage fees. If your bag is overweight or oversized, you will almost certainly need to pay the additional fees at the airport check-in counter, as these often require agents to verify the bag's dimensions and weight.
How to use AAdvantage® miles to pay for baggage fees?
Generally, AAdvantage® miles cannot be directly used to pay for baggage fees. Miles are typically redeemable for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related services. Baggage fees are usually paid with a credit card or other accepted payment methods.
How to troubleshoot issues when paying for bags on the American Airlines app?
If you encounter issues, first ensure you have a stable internet connection and the latest version of the app. Try restarting the app or your iPhone. If the problem persists, try paying on the American Airlines website (aa.com) or contact American Airlines technical support or reservations directly.
How to get an Express Bag Tag using the American Airlines app?
After checking in and paying for your bags on the app, proceed to a self-service kiosk at select airports. Scan your mobile boarding pass, and the kiosk will print your Express Bag Tags. Attach them to your bags and take them to the Bag Drop area.
How to know if my American Airlines credit card offers free checked bags?
Check the benefits guide that came with your specific American Airlines co-branded credit card or visit the card's dedicated webpage on the issuing bank's website (e.g., Citi or Barclays). It will clearly state if a free checked bag benefit is included and for how many companions.
How to check the status or location of my checked bag after paying?
Once your bag has been checked and scanned at the airport, you can track its status and location directly within the American Airlines app under your trip details. Look for a "Track Your Bag" or "Baggage Status" option, which often provides real-time updates.
