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Are you tired of paying extra fees for checked bags when flying with American Airlines? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we will be discussing some tips and tricks on how to get free checked bags on American Airlines. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, these tips will help you save money and make your travel experience more enjoyable. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of free checked bags on American Airlines.
How to Get Free Checked Bags on American Airlines?
1. Sign up for an American Airlines Credit Card
One of the easiest ways to get free checked bags on American Airlines is by signing up for an American Airlines credit card. Many of their credit cards offer free checked bags as a benefit. For example, the Citi/AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard offers one free checked bag for the cardholder and up to four companions on the same reservation.
In addition to free checked bags, these credit cards often offer other benefits such as priority boarding, bonus miles, and discounts on in-flight purchases.
2. Become an Elite Status Member
Another way to get free checked bags on American Airlines is by becoming an elite status member. There are different levels of elite status, including Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum. The higher your status, the more benefits you receive, including free checked bags.
For example, Gold members receive one free checked bag, Platinum members receive two free checked bags, and Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum members receive three free checked bags.
| Elite Status Level | Number of Free Checked Bags |
|---|---|
| Gold | 1 |
| Platinum | 2 |
| Platinum Pro | 3 |
| Executive Platinum | 3 |
3. Fly in First or Business Class
If you’re willing to pay for a first or business class ticket, you’ll receive free checked bags as a benefit. First class passengers receive three free checked bags, while business class passengers receive two free checked bags.
In addition to free checked bags, first and business class passengers receive other benefits such as priority boarding, more comfortable seats, and better in-flight meals.
4. Use a Military Discount
Members of the military and their dependents can receive free checked bags on American Airlines when using a military discount. Active duty military personnel and their dependents can receive up to five free checked bags, while veterans and their dependents can receive up to three free checked bags.
In order to receive the military discount, you’ll need to provide proof of military status when booking your flight.
5. Fly on a Qualifying International Route
If you’re flying on a qualifying international route, you may be able to receive free checked bags as a benefit. The number of free checked bags you receive will depend on your destination and the class of your ticket.
For example, if you’re flying in first or business class to Europe, you’ll receive three free checked bags. If you’re flying in economy to Central America, South America, or Mexico, you’ll receive one free checked bag.
| Destination | First/Business Class | Economy |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | 3 | 1 |
| Asia | 3 | 2 |
| Central America, South America, Mexico | 2 | 1 |
6. Volunteer to Check Your Bag at the Gate
If your flight is full and the overhead bins are full, the gate agent may ask for volunteers to check their bags at the gate. If you volunteer, your checked bag will be free.
This isn’t a guaranteed way to get free checked bags, but it’s worth asking if the flight is full and you don’t mind checking your bag.
7. Use a Companion Certificate
If you have a companion certificate from American Airlines, you can receive a free checked bag for yourself and your companion. Companion certificates are often offered as a benefit of American Airlines credit cards or as a reward for achieving elite status.
Companion certificates typically have restrictions, such as blackout dates and limited availability, so be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully.
8. Book a Package Deal
If you’re booking a vacation package through American Airlines Vacations, you may be able to receive free checked bags as a benefit. The number of free checked bags you receive will depend on the package you book.
For example, if you book a vacation package to Hawaii, you may receive one free checked bag per person.
9. Fly with a Partner Airline
American Airlines has partnerships with several other airlines, including British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas. If you’re flying on a partner airline, you may be able to receive free checked bags as a benefit.
The number of free checked bags you receive will depend on the airline and the class of your ticket. Be sure to check the partner airline’s baggage policy before you fly.
10. Pack Lightly
If you can’t get free checked bags through any of the above methods, consider packing lightly and only bringing a carry-on bag. Most airlines allow one free carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag.
By packing lightly, you’ll save money on baggage fees and avoid the hassle of waiting for your checked bag at baggage claim.
Conclusion
There are several ways to get free checked bags on American Airlines, including signing up for an American Airlines credit card, becoming an elite status member, flying in first or business class, using a military discount, flying on a qualifying international route, volunteering to check your bag at the gate, using a companion certificate, booking a package deal, flying with a partner airline, and packing lightly.
By taking advantage of these methods, you can save money on baggage fees and make your travel experience more enjoyable.
Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the eligibility criteria for getting free checked bags on American Airlines?
- How many free bags can I check on American Airlines?
- Can I get free checked bags on American Airlines without a credit card or loyalty program?
- How can I apply for an American Airlines credit card?
- What if my checked bag exceeds the weight or size limit 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?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility criteria for getting free checked bags on American Airlines?
To be eligible for free checked bags on American Airlines, you need to have a certain type of credit card or belong to a specific loyalty program. For example, if you have an American Airlines AAdvantage credit card, you and up to four companions on the same reservation can each check one bag for free. Similarly, if you are an AAdvantage Gold, Platinum, or Executive Platinum member, you can enjoy free checked bags.
However, it’s important to note that eligibility criteria can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check with American Airlines’ official website or customer service to confirm the latest information.
How many free bags can I check on American Airlines?
The number of free bags you can check on American Airlines depends on various factors such as your ticket type, destination, and loyalty status. As a general rule, most American Airlines passengers are allowed to check one or two bags for free, depending on their flight itinerary and loyalty status.
For example, if you’re flying domestically within the United States, you can check one bag for free if you’re an AAdvantage Gold member and up to three bags for free if you’re an AAdvantage Executive Platinum member. If you’re flying internationally, you may be allowed to check one or two bags for free, depending on your destination and class of service.
Can I get free checked bags on American Airlines without a credit card or loyalty program?
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to get free checked bags on American Airlines without a credit card or loyalty program membership. However, you can still save money on checked bags by paying for them in advance online or at a self-service kiosk. American Airlines also offers various baggage fee waivers and discounts for military personnel, active-duty U.S. military members, and their dependents.
How can I apply for an American Airlines credit card?
If you’re interested in applying for an American Airlines credit card, you can visit American Airlines’ official website or go directly to the website of the credit card issuer. American Airlines partners with several credit card companies, including Citi and Barclays, to offer various credit cards that come with benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and bonus miles.
To apply for an American Airlines credit card, you’ll need to provide personal and financial information, such as your name, address, income, and credit score. The application process typically takes a few minutes, and you may receive an instant decision or need to wait a few days for approval.
What if my checked bag exceeds the weight or size limit on American Airlines?
If your checked bag exceeds the weight or size limit on American Airlines, you may have to pay an additional fee or arrange for alternative shipping. The exact fees and policies vary depending on your itinerary, destination, and class of service.
To avoid unexpected fees or delays, it’s always a good idea to check American Airlines’ official website or customer service for the latest baggage policies and restrictions. You can also consider packing lighter or shipping some of your items separately to avoid exceeding the weight or size limit.
American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained
In conclusion, getting free checked bags on American Airlines is definitely possible if you know how to go about it. By using American Airlines credit cards, achieving elite status, or taking advantage of specific promotions, you can avoid the extra fees that come with checked luggage. It’s important to keep in mind that these options may come with certain restrictions and requirements, so make sure to read the fine print before committing to any of them.
Overall, it’s a good idea to plan ahead for your travel needs, including baggage. By doing your research and staying informed about any changes to airline policies, you can save yourself time, money, and hassle in the long run. With a little bit of effort and some strategic thinking, you can enjoy a stress-free travel experience on American Airlines, without having to pay extra for checked bags. So go ahead and start planning your next trip, knowing that you have the tools to make it a smoother and more affordable experience.
