Are you planning a trip with American Airlines but worried about packing too much? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! One of the most common concerns travelers have is the cost of an extra bag. In this article, we’ll break down the fees for extra bags on American Airlines, so you can plan your trip with ease and avoid any unexpected charges. So, let’s dive in and find out how much you’ll need to budget for that extra luggage.
Contents
- How Much is an Extra Bag on American Airlines?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the baggage allowance on American Airlines?
- What are the fees for extra baggage on American Airlines?
- How can I avoid paying extra baggage fees on American Airlines?
- Can I pre-pay for extra baggage on American Airlines?
- What happens if my baggage exceeds the weight or size limits on American Airlines?
- American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained
- How Many Bags American Airlines?
- How To Fly Standby On American Airlines?
- Why Does My American Airlines Ticket Say Pending?
How Much is an Extra Bag on American Airlines?
If you are traveling on American Airlines and wonder how much it would cost to bring an extra bag, you have come to the right place. American Airlines has a detailed baggage policy, and knowing the fees in advance can save you money and hassle at the airport. In this article, we will discuss how much it would cost to bring an extra bag on American Airlines.
Checked Baggage Fees
American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard for free. However, checked baggage fees apply for all other bags. The first checked bag starts at $30 for domestic flights and $60 for international flights. The second checked bag starts at $40 for domestic flights and $100 for international flights. The fees can vary based on the destination, travel class, and frequent flyer status.
Passengers can purchase up to 10 checked bags per person, and the fee for each additional bag starts at $150 for domestic flights and $200 for international flights. The overweight and oversized baggage fees also apply if the bag exceeds the weight or size limit.
Carry-on Baggage Fees
As mentioned earlier, American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard for free. The carry-on bag should not exceed the dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including the wheels and handles. If the bag exceeds the size limit, it will be checked at the gate, and the checked baggage fees will apply.
If a passenger wants to bring an additional carry-on bag onboard, it will cost $75 per bag. The bag should not exceed the dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including the wheels and handles, and should fit under the seat in front or in the overhead bin.
Bicycle Fees
If you are traveling with a bicycle, it can be checked as a regular bag for a fee of $150 per item. The bicycle should be packed in a cardboard box or hard-sided case to prevent damage during transport. The maximum weight limit for a bicycle is 70 lbs, and the maximum size limit is 126 inches (length + width + height).
Pet Fees
If you want to travel with your pet, American Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. The fees for pet travel depend on the weight and size of the pet, as well as the destination. The fee for carry-on pets is $125 per kennel, and the fee for checked pets is $200 per kennel.
It is important to note that certain breeds and sizes of pets may not be allowed to travel on American Airlines due to safety concerns.
Benefits of Prepaying Baggage Fees
Prepaying baggage fees on American Airlines can save you time and money at the airport. By prepaying, you can avoid the long lines at the check-in counter and save up to $5 per bag. Additionally, prepaying allows you to secure your baggage allowance in advance and avoid any surprises or last-minute fees.
Baggage Vs. Shipping
If you are traveling with a lot of luggage or oversized items, it may be more cost-effective to ship them instead of checking them on the plane. Shipping companies like FedEx and UPS offer competitive rates for luggage shipping, and you can track your luggage online and have it delivered to your hotel or destination.
However, shipping may take longer than checking your luggage on the plane, and there is a risk of damage or loss during transport. It is important to compare the cost and benefits of shipping versus checking your luggage before making a decision.
Baggage Restrictions
American Airlines has specific baggage restrictions for certain items, including firearms, sharp objects, and liquids. Passengers should check the baggage policy before packing their bags to ensure they comply with the rules and regulations. Failure to comply with the rules can result in fines, confiscation of items, or denial of boarding.
Baggage Claim
After arriving at your destination, you can claim your baggage at the baggage claim area. The baggage claim area is usually located near the airport exit, and passengers can identify their bags by the baggage tags they received at check-in. If your baggage is lost or delayed, you should contact American Airlines immediately to file a claim and receive assistance.
Conclusion
Knowing the fees and restrictions for bringing extra bags on American Airlines can save you money and make your travel experience smoother. By prepaying baggage fees, complying with baggage restrictions, and packing wisely, you can avoid any surprises or last-minute fees. If you have any questions or concerns about American Airlines’ baggage policy, you can contact their customer service or visit their website for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding extra baggage fees on American Airlines.
What is the baggage allowance on American Airlines?
The baggage allowance on American Airlines depends on your destination, fare class, and loyalty status. Most domestic flights allow for one personal item and one carry-on bag, with additional fees for checked bags. International flights may have different rules and allowances. It is best to check American Airlines’ website or contact their customer service for specific information regarding your itinerary.
Keep in mind that overweight or oversized bags will also incur additional fees, and some items may be restricted or prohibited altogether.
What are the fees for extra baggage on American Airlines?
The fees for extra baggage on American Airlines vary depending on your route and fare class. For domestic flights, the first checked bag typically costs $30, while the second bag costs $40. Additional bags or overweight/oversized bags can cost anywhere from $150 to $450 each, depending on the route and weight of the bag.
For international flights, the fees may be higher and vary by destination. It is best to check American Airlines’ website or contact their customer service for specific information regarding your itinerary.
How can I avoid paying extra baggage fees on American Airlines?
There are several ways to avoid paying extra baggage fees on American Airlines. One option is to pack lighter and only bring what you need. Another option is to become a member of American Airlines’ loyalty program, as this may entitle you to free checked bags or discounted fees.
You can also consider upgrading your fare class, as higher fares may include additional baggage allowances. Some credit cards may also offer perks such as free checked bags on American Airlines flights.
Can I pre-pay for extra baggage on American Airlines?
Yes, you can pre-pay for extra baggage on American Airlines through their website or mobile app. This is often a more cost-effective option than paying for extra bags at the airport. Keep in mind that pre-paid baggage fees are non-refundable, so make sure to only pay for what you need.
If you are unsure about how many bags you will need, you can always pre-pay for one or two bags and then pay for any additional bags at the airport.
What happens if my baggage exceeds the weight or size limits on American Airlines?
If your baggage exceeds the weight or size limits on American Airlines, you will be charged an additional fee. The fee will depend on the route and weight of the bag, and can range from $150 to $450 per bag. In extreme cases, your bag may be considered too heavy or large to be transported on the plane, and you may need to make other arrangements.
To avoid these fees, make sure to weigh and measure your bags before arriving at the airport, and consider packing lighter or shipping some items separately if necessary.
American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained
In conclusion, if you’re planning to fly with American Airlines and need to bring an extra bag, it’s important to know the cost. While prices can vary depending on your destination and fare type, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $200 for an additional piece of luggage. It’s crucial to check your fare rules and luggage policies before booking your flight to avoid any surprise fees at the airport.
One way to save money on extra baggage fees is to pack smartly and efficiently. Consider packing lighter and consolidating items into one larger bag instead of bringing multiple smaller bags. You can also weigh your bags at home to ensure they meet the airline’s weight restrictions, which can save you money on overweight baggage fees.
Overall, understanding the costs and policies around extra baggage on American Airlines can help you make informed decisions when booking your next flight. By being prepared and packing strategically, you can avoid unnecessary fees and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.