Planning a trip with American Airlines and realizing you need to bring more than just a carry-on? Don't sweat it! Adding a checked bag to your American Airlines reservation is a straightforward process, whether you're doing it during your initial booking or after. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey for you and your luggage.
Let's dive in and get your bags checked!
Step 1: Understand American Airlines' Checked Bag Policy and Fees
Before you even think about adding a bag, it's crucial to understand American Airlines' baggage policy. This will help you avoid any surprises at the airport. Fees and allowances can vary significantly based on your destination, fare type, and AAdvantage® status.
1.1 Domestic vs. International Flights
Domestic Flights (within U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands): Typically, the first checked bag costs around $40 ($35 if paid online), and the second is $45.
International Flights: Fees for international flights vary widely by region (e.g., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, South America, Trans-Atlantic, Trans-Pacific). Some routes might offer a free first checked bag, especially for higher fare classes, while others will have fees starting from $35 or more. Always check the specific fees for your itinerary.
1.2 Weight and Size Restrictions
Standard Checked Bag: For most regions (except Australia/New Zealand), your checked bag should not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 50 lbs (23 kgs).
First/Business Class: If you're flying First or Business Class, your complimentary checked bags can weigh up to 70 lbs (32 kgs).
Overweight/Oversized Bags: Bags exceeding the standard weight (50 lbs/23 kgs for economy) or dimensions (62 linear inches) will incur additional fees, which can be substantial. Bags over 100 lbs (45 kgs) or 126 linear inches are generally not accepted.
1.3 How to Check Your Specific Fees
American Airlines Website: The most reliable source for up-to-date fees is the official American Airlines "Bags and Optional Fees" page. Input your origin and destination to get precise information.
During Booking/Check-in: The system will automatically calculate and display the applicable fees when you are booking your flight or checking in online.
1.4 Who Gets Free Checked Bags?
AAdvantage® Elite Status: Members with AAdvantage Gold®, Platinum®, Platinum Pro®, or Executive Platinum® status often receive free checked bags (1 to 3, depending on status).
Eligible AAdvantage® Credit Card Holders: Many American Airlines co-branded credit cards offer a free first checked bag for the primary cardholder and companions on the same domestic itinerary. Make sure your AAdvantage® number is linked to your reservation.
Confirmed First/Business/Premium Economy Class: Passengers in these fare classes usually have a higher allowance for free checked bags.
Active Military Personnel: Active U.S. military personnel and their dependents often receive free checked bags.
Step 2: Adding a Checked Bag During Initial Booking (The Easiest Way)
This is the most straightforward method. When you're initially purchasing your flight ticket on the American Airlines website or app, you'll typically be prompted to add checked bags as part of the booking flow.
2.1 Online Booking Process
Select Your Flight: Choose your desired flights and proceed to the passenger information section.
Review Your Itinerary: As you move through the booking steps, you'll usually encounter a section for "Bags" or "Optional Services."
Add Checked Bags: Here, you'll see the option to add the number of checked bags you intend to bring. The system will display the associated fees for your specific itinerary.
Confirm and Pay: Select the number of bags, and the fees will be added to your total fare. Complete the payment to finalize your booking with the checked bags included.
2.2 Using the American Airlines App
The mobile app offers a similar seamless experience. After selecting your flights, you'll be guided through the booking process, where you can easily add checked bags and view their costs before confirming your purchase.
Step 3: Adding a Checked Bag After Booking (Still Very Convenient!)
Don't worry if you've already booked your flight and decided later that you need to check a bag. American Airlines provides several ways to add bags post-booking.
3.1 Via the American Airlines Website or App (During Online Check-in)
This is often the most convenient method for adding bags after booking, especially within 24 hours of your flight.
When to Do It: You can typically add and pay for checked bags online or via the app starting 24 hours and up to 2 hours before your scheduled departure for most flights.
How to Access Your Trip:
Go to aa.com or open the American Airlines app.
Click on "Manage Trips" or "Check In."
Enter your 6-character confirmation code (PNR), your AAdvantage® number, or your e-ticket number, along with your last name.
Navigate to Baggage Options: Once you've accessed your reservation or started the check-in process, look for a section related to "Bags," "Checked Bags," or "Optional Services."
Select and Pay: You'll see options to add checked bags. Select the quantity, and the applicable fees will be displayed. You can then pay for them using a credit/debit card.
Benefit: Paying online often grants you a slight discount (e.g., $5 off the first checked bag for domestic flights) compared to paying at the airport.
3.2 At the Airport (Self-Service Kiosk or Ticket Counter)
If you prefer to wait or couldn't add bags online, you can always do so at the airport.
Self-Service Kiosk:
Find a Kiosk: Locate an American Airlines self-service kiosk in the airport terminal.
Access Your Reservation: Scan your boarding pass (paper or mobile), enter your confirmation code, or swipe your AAdvantage® card.
Add Bags: The kiosk interface will allow you to add checked bags and pay the fees using a credit/debit card. You can also print bag tags directly from the kiosk.
Bag Drop: After printing your tags, attach them securely to your bags and proceed to the designated Bag Drop area.
Ticket Counter:
Go to the Counter: Head to the American Airlines ticket counter.
Provide Information: A customer service agent will assist you. Provide your photo ID and reservation details.
Pay Fees: The agent will process your checked bags, calculate the fees, and accept payment. They will also print and attach the bag tags for you.
Consider Wait Times: Be aware that lines at the ticket counter can be long, especially during peak travel times. Arrive well in advance of your flight if you plan to add bags here.
3.3 Via Phone Call to American Airlines Reservations
If you encounter any issues with the online or app process, or if you have specific questions about unusual baggage (e.g., sports equipment, musical instruments), calling American Airlines customer service is a viable option.
Contact Information: Find the American Airlines reservations number on their official website.
Provide Details: Have your confirmation code, flight details, and payment information ready.
Agent Assistance: A representative will be able to add the checked bags to your reservation and process the payment over the phone.
Step 4: Preparing Your Bags for Check-in
Once you've added and paid for your checked bags, it's time to get them ready for their journey.
4.1 Pack Smartly
Review Prohibited Items: Double-check American Airlines' list of prohibited items for checked baggage.
Label Your Bags: Always put a tag with your name, address, email, and phone number inside and outside your luggage. This is crucial for identification if your bag is misplaced.
Secure Your Luggage: Use TSA-approved locks if you wish to secure your bags. Remember that TSA may open your bag for inspection.
Remove Valuables: Never check valuable items (jewelry, electronics, important documents, medication, cash) in your checked luggage. Keep these in your carry-on or personal item.
4.2 Arrive Early at the Airport
Domestic Flights: American Airlines recommends arriving at least 1.5 hours before departure if you're checking bags for domestic flights.
International Flights: For international travel, allow at least 2.5 to 3 hours, especially if you need to check bags.
Check-in Deadlines: Be aware of the baggage check-in deadlines, which are typically 45 minutes for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights before scheduled departure. Missing these deadlines can result in your bags not being accepted.
Step 5: Bag Drop at the Airport
This is the final step where your bags officially begin their journey.
5.1 Using Express Bag Tags (if available)
At select airports, American Airlines offers "Express Bag Tags." If you've checked in online or via the app and paid for your bags, you can scan your boarding pass at a kiosk to automatically print your bag tags.
Attach the tags and then proceed to the dedicated Bag Drop counter. This can save you significant time.
5.2 Standard Bag Drop
If you paid for your bags at the airport kiosk or ticket counter, or if Express Bag Tags aren't available, simply take your tagged bags to the designated Bag Drop area. This is usually clearly marked near the check-in counters.
An agent will visually confirm your tags and send your bags on their way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about American Airlines Checked Bags:
How to check the exact baggage fees for my American Airlines flight?
You can check the exact baggage fees for your specific American Airlines flight by visiting the "Bags and Optional Fees" section on the official American Airlines website and entering your origin and destination. The fees will also be displayed during the online booking or check-in process.
How to save money on American Airlines checked bag fees?
To save money on American Airlines checked bag fees, pay for your bags online or via the American Airlines app during check-in (within 24 hours of departure) to potentially receive a $5 discount on the first bag for domestic flights. Also, consider getting an eligible American Airlines co-branded credit card or achieving AAdvantage® elite status, as both can offer free checked bag benefits.
How to know if my American Airlines ticket includes free checked bags?
Your American Airlines ticket might include free checked bags if you are flying in First, Business, or Premium Economy class, have AAdvantage® elite status (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum), or hold an eligible American Airlines co-branded credit card. Always check your specific fare rules and AAdvantage® benefits, or refer to the baggage allowance displayed when managing your reservation.
How to add oversized or overweight bags on American Airlines?
Oversized or overweight bags on American Airlines generally cannot be added or paid for online in advance. You will need to declare and pay for these at the airport ticket counter, where additional fees will apply based on the degree of excess weight or size. Be aware that there are maximum limits for weight and dimensions beyond which bags will not be accepted.
How to check if my checked bag has been paid for on American Airlines?
You can confirm if your checked bag has been paid for on American Airlines by reviewing your booking confirmation email, checking your trip details under "Manage Trips" on the American Airlines website or app, or by contacting American Airlines reservations. The payment will typically appear as a separate line item if added after the initial ticket purchase.
How to change the number of checked bags after paying for them on American Airlines?
If you need to change the number of checked bags after paying for them on American Airlines, it's best to contact American Airlines customer service directly. While you can often add more bags, reducing the number after payment may not result in a refund, as bag fees are generally non-refundable.
How to use AAdvantage® miles to pay for checked bags on American Airlines?
American Airlines generally does not allow you to use AAdvantage® miles directly to pay for checked bag fees. Miles are primarily used for flight redemptions and upgrades. However, having AAdvantage® elite status, which is earned through flying or AAdvantage® credit card spend, can grant you complimentary checked bags.
How to check baggage for connecting flights on American Airlines?
When traveling on connecting flights with American Airlines (or their codeshare partners), your checked bags are typically checked through to your final destination, meaning you won't need to pick them up and re-check them between flights. However, for international arrivals into the U.S., you will almost always need to retrieve your bags, clear customs, and then re-check them, even if they are tagged to your final destination.
How to retrieve a lost or delayed checked bag on American Airlines?
If your checked bag is lost or delayed on American Airlines, immediately report it at the American Airlines baggage service office in the arrival airport. They will initiate a trace and provide you with a file reference number. You can often track the status of your bag online using this number.
How to ensure my special item or sports equipment is accepted as a checked bag on American Airlines?
To ensure your special item or sports equipment is accepted as a checked bag on American Airlines, review their specific policies for such items on their website (e.g., musical instruments, golf clubs, bicycles). These items often have different size/weight limits and may incur specific handling fees. It's advisable to notify American Airlines in advance, especially for unusually large or fragile items.
