How To Buy Checked Bags American Airlines?

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American Airlines is one of the most reliable and popular airlines in the world. If you are planning a trip with American Airlines, you may need to purchase checked bags. However, the process of buying checked bags can be a bit confusing if you are new to it. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of buying checked bags with American Airlines, so you can travel with ease and without any hassle.

Whether you’re going on a long vacation or a short business trip, knowing how to buy checked bags with American Airlines is essential. With our easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to purchase your bags effortlessly and enjoy a stress-free travel experience. So, let’s get started and explore the steps to buy checked bags with American Airlines.

How to Buy Checked Bags American Airlines?

How to Buy Checked Bags American Airlines?

If you’re traveling with American Airlines, it’s important to know how to purchase checked bags. This guide will walk you through the steps you need to take to buy checked bags for your American Airlines flight.

Step 1: Determine How Many Bags You Need

The first step in buying checked bags on American Airlines is to determine how many bags you need. American Airlines allows passengers to check up to 10 bags per person, but you’ll need to pay a fee for each bag. The fee for the first bag is typically lower than the fee for additional bags, so it’s a good idea to pack efficiently and try to limit the number of bags you bring.

If you’re traveling with a group or family, consider sharing bags to save money. For example, if you’re traveling with your spouse and two kids, you could check two bags instead of four and split the cost.

Step 2: Purchase Bags Online

The easiest way to purchase checked bags for your American Airlines flight is to do it online. You can do this when you book your flight or at any time before your flight. Simply log in to your American Airlines account and go to the “Manage Reservations” section. From there, you can add checked bags to your reservation and pay the fee online.

When purchasing bags online, make sure you double-check the weight and size restrictions for checked bags on American Airlines. If your bag exceeds the weight or size limit, you’ll be charged an additional fee.

Step 3: Purchase Bags at the Airport

If you didn’t purchase checked bags online, you can still buy them at the airport. Simply go to the check-in counter and let the agent know how many bags you need to check. They’ll weigh your bags and charge you the appropriate fee. Keep in mind that purchasing bags at the airport can be more expensive than purchasing them online.

If you’re traveling with oversized or overweight bags, it’s a good idea to purchase them at the airport. American Airlines charges an additional fee for bags that exceed the weight or size limit, so it’s better to find out at the airport and pay the fee upfront.

Step 4: Save Money with a Credit Card

One way to save money on checked bags with American Airlines is to use a credit card that offers baggage fee waivers. Many credit cards offer this benefit, so make sure you check with your credit card company before you travel.

Some credit cards also offer other travel perks, such as lounge access, priority boarding, and in-flight discounts. These perks can make your travel experience more enjoyable and save you money in the long run.

Step 5: Pack Smart

Packing smart can help you avoid the need to purchase additional bags or pay overweight/oversize fees. Here are some tips for packing efficiently:

  • Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space
  • Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space
  • Wear your heaviest clothing and shoes on the flight
  • Leave room in your bags for souvenirs or purchases made during your trip

By packing smart, you can save money and have a more comfortable travel experience.

Step 6: Benefits of Purchasing Bags Online

There are several benefits to purchasing checked bags online with American Airlines:

  • You can save money by purchasing bags in advance
  • You can avoid the hassle of purchasing bags at the airport
  • You can make changes to your reservation online
  • You can print your bag tags and avoid waiting in line at the airport

If you’re a frequent flyer with American Airlines, you may also be eligible for free checked bags or other perks. Check with American Airlines or your credit card company to see if you qualify.

Step 7: Vs. Other Airlines

When it comes to buying checked bags, American Airlines is fairly competitive with other airlines. Here’s how it stacks up against some of the other major airlines:

Airline First Bag Fee Second Bag Fee
American Airlines $30 (domestic), $0-$200 (international) $40-$150
Delta Airlines $30-$60 $40-$100
United Airlines $30 (domestic), $0-$200 (international) $40-$150
Southwest Airlines $0 $0

As you can see, American Airlines is fairly comparable to other major airlines when it comes to baggage fees.

Step 8: Conclusion

Buying checked bags on American Airlines is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have the right number of bags for your trip and avoid any surprise fees. Remember to pack efficiently and consider using a credit card that offers baggage fee waivers to save money.

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, American Airlines is committed to providing a comfortable and convenient travel experience for all passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about buying checked bags on American Airlines:

What is the baggage allowance for American Airlines?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. Checked bags, however, are subject to fees. The fees depend on a variety of factors, such as your destination, your ticket class, and your loyalty status with American Airlines. You can check the American Airlines website for more information on baggage fees and allowances.

Can I buy checked bags online?

Yes, you can buy checked bags online when you book your flight or at any time before your flight through the American Airlines website. You can also purchase checked bags at the airport, but keep in mind that the fees may be higher if you wait until you get to the airport.

How do I know how many bags to buy?

The number of bags you should buy depends on how many bags you plan on checking. American Airlines allows up to 10 checked bags per passenger, but keep in mind that each bag is subject to a fee. You should also consider the weight and size of your bags, as there are additional fees for bags that exceed the weight and size limits.

What is the cost of a checked bag on American Airlines?

The cost of a checked bag on American Airlines varies depending on a variety of factors, such as your destination, your ticket class, and your loyalty status with American Airlines. You can check the American Airlines website for more information on baggage fees and allowances. Keep in mind that fees may be higher if you purchase checked bags at the airport.

What is the maximum weight and size limit for checked bags on American Airlines?

The maximum weight and size limit for checked bags on American Airlines varies depending on your destination and ticket class. However, the general size limit is 62 inches (157 cm) and the weight limit is 50 pounds (23 kg). Fees may apply for bags that exceed these limits. Make sure to check the American Airlines website for more information on baggage fees and allowances.

Can you prepay for checked baggage on American Airlines?


In conclusion, buying checked bags for your American Airlines flight is a simple and straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you are prepared for your upcoming trip and have everything you need to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Remember, it’s important to plan ahead and purchase your checked bags in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises or fees. Be sure to check American Airlines’ baggage policies and restrictions before purchasing your bags to ensure that you are compliant and avoid any issues at the airport.

At the end of the day, buying checked bags with American Airlines is just one small part of your travel experience. With a little bit of preparation and the right information, you can focus on enjoying your trip and making lasting memories. Safe travels!

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