If you’re planning on flying with American Airlines, you need to know how to pay for your checked bags. Many airlines ask you to open your bag and pay a fee for it. The fees vary from airline to airline, and you may not be aware of them until you reach the airport. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid them. One great way is to travel with a solid carry-on bag.
Business class customers get two free checked bags
The American Airlines baggage policy allows business and first class passengers to check up to two bags at no extra cost. The bag size must be no bigger than 62 inches across or 50 pounds. The additional charge for checked bags depends on the destination and the ticket type. Domestic flights are free to check two bags, while international flights cost around $150 to $200 per bag.
These free bags can’t be stacked. They’re valid only for the first two checked bags. There’s no stacking, so you won’t be able to get three free bags. AAdvantage Platinum and AAdvantage Aviator Red members do not qualify for the three-bag limit.
The baggage fee for American Airlines varies depending on the flight type and route. On domestic flights, the first bag is free, and the second one is only $40. Depending on the number of checked bags and destination, the fee may vary. If you are flying in business or first class, you may also qualify for an increased baggage allowance.
American Airlines also charges for excess baggage, and these are non-refundable. Bags that exceed 50 pounds are deemed overweight and incur an additional fee. Soft-sided garment bags that measure 51 inches are also considered oversize. Gate-checked bags may also be subject to fees.
Business and first class passengers may enjoy a free first checked bag. AAdvantage credit cards also offer free checked bags. The number of free checked bags depends on the ticket type and the status level of the traveler. American Airlines also offers free carry-on bags to its passengers and elite members.
Overweight baggage fees
American Airlines charges additional fees for overweight baggage. Bags that are over 50 pounds are considered overweight and will incur a fee of $100 or more. Overweight baggage can also be oversized, which will cost you around $200 or more. However, if you’re planning on flying with oversize baggage, there are ways to avoid paying these fees.
Luckily, some major credit cards offer airline baggage fee reimbursements. Chase and American Express are two of the major credit card companies that offer this service. All you need to do is pay the fee with your credit card and then request the reimbursement or account credit. The process can be easy and fast. If you’ve already paid for your tickets and have been notified of the overweight fee, you can submit a request for reimbursement by phone.
Overweight baggage fees on American Airlines vary by destination and weight. If you’re traveling to an island, make sure you check the airline’s rules for oversize or overweight baggage. Be sure to check with the airline before you board to avoid a surprise at check-in. Checked baggage should be no more than 45kg.
In addition to the hefty fees for overweight and oversized baggage, you may need to pay a small fee for carry-on items. These items should fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 18″ x 14″ x 8″. During a flight, you are also allowed to bring one personal item and a carry-on bag. But keep in mind that some items, such as medical devices or comfort items, are allowed on board.
Prepaying for checked bags
Prepaying for checked bags on American Airlines is not a new concept, but the airline still has some work to do to make it more convenient for travelers. Traditionally, the airline has made passengers wait in line for their checked bags, even if they booked economy class seats. Today, you can prepay for your bags, but you can only do so until 20 hours before departure.
The company is currently testing the new prepaid option for its passengers. It is only being tested at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, but the airline has said it plans to introduce it to all flights starting in the fall. If it is successful, it will save both American Airlines and travelers a lot of time.
The fees for checked bags vary between airlines. However, the policy of American Airlines is straightforward: a bag must be less than 50 pounds to qualify for free baggage. Anything over that will be charged a fee. However, if you are a member of one of the airline’s loyalty programs, you can get a baggage fee waiver.
In addition, you can also pay for the additional checked bags on American Airlines. You can do this through the airline’s website or app. This way, you can avoid the hassle of paying a fee at the airport. You can also prepay for the oversized bags, which may cost as much as $200.
If you already have a card from a major credit card issuer, you can also get airline baggage fee reimbursement. The American Express and Chase credit cards both offer this option, but you’ll need to pay for the bag with your card and then submit a claim for reimbursement or account credit.
Waived fees for certain destinations
When you buy an American Airlines ticket, you are given a number of benefits, such as waived fees on checked bags. These benefits vary depending on your destination, the weight of your bags, and whether you are flying with a co-branded credit card or AAdvantage elite status. You can also check the airline’s website for specific rules about checking bags.
Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan elites will also receive waived fees on checked bags starting in summer 2021. The program will also offer a free check-in for a fourth bag for Executive Platinum and Oneworld Emerald members. You can read more about your baggage benefits in the Mileage Plan FAQ.
Currently, American Airlines allows 10 checked bags on domestic flights and ten on transatlantic flights. You are allowed to check up to five bags on most other flights. However, you may be charged up to $100 more for oversize or overweight bags. For these reasons, you may want to consider packing your bag in a carry-on.
You can waived fees for checked bags on American Airlines flights if you’re an elite member, or if you’re traveling with a guest with the same reservation. AAdvantage credit card holders are also entitled to free checked bags on domestic flights. The number of free bags depends on where you are going and what you’re planning to pack.
The size of your checked bags is also an important consideration. You’ll have to pay an extra fee for bags over 62 linear inches. However, this fee does not apply to children or spouses. Likewise, checked bags cannot exceed 320 centimeters. If you’re a member of the Executive Platinum or oneworld Emerald elite program, you can check up to 70 pounds without paying any extra fee. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay a fee of $150 or $200 for each bag you check.
Limits on size of carry-on bag
While American Airlines is known for its reasonable carry-on bag limits, it’s important to follow the rules to ensure that your bag is not overweight. These size restrictions are to keep your baggage light and allow for easy lifting. Also, remember to check the TSA’s guidelines, as they may apply to specific items.
When flying on American Airlines, you’ll have a limited amount of overhead space, so it’s important to measure your luggage before you leave home. The airline requires that carry-on bags measure no more than 22 inches by 14 inches by nine inches in length. You’ll also find size check templates at the ticketing counter and departure gates. Soft-sided garment bags that are less than 22 inches long and weigh less than 50 pounds are permitted. The size limit is not set by weight, but it’s important to keep in mind that these limits are not enforced on regional planes, where overhead space is limited.
You may also be allowed to take a collapsible stroller on board. If you’re traveling with children, you can carry a backpack, diaper bag, or camera. Just make sure the size is right for the overhead bin and under the seat.
In addition to size restrictions, American Airlines also limits the number of items you can take on board. If you have more than 50 pounds of luggage, you’ll be charged an oversize baggage fee. For sports equipment, check with the airline to see if there’s enough space. If you can’t fit your sports equipment, you can check your equipment in. Be sure to call ahead to verify that there’s room. Besides, you’ll have to pay extra for the extra space and the associated fees.
American Airlines’ size and weight limits for carry-on bags vary by flight class. Most flights allow passengers to carry up to 10 pieces of luggage, although there are seasonal restrictions. Keep in mind that the size and weight restrictions apply to carry-on bags and to the size of soft-sided garment bags.