Bags

First checked bag free on domestic itineraries

Earn 50,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases

Your first checked bag is free on domestic itineraries for you and up to 4 travel companions with the
Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® card

Learn more Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Already a cardholder? Learn more about your card’s benefits

Paying for bags online

Save time, pay at check-in

Don’t wait in line at the airport – check up to 3 bags when you check-in on aa.com or in the app. For more information about paying for your bags online, visit our customer service FAQs.

Customer service FAQs

How does it work?

• You can choose to pay for up to 3 checked bags (per person) before arriving at the airport
• If the option is available on your flight, pre-payment is taken during check-in on aa.com or in the app starting 24 hours and up to 4 hours before scheduled departure
• If you're checking more than 3 bags you can add them at the airport; applicable oversize, overweight and excess bag charges may apply
• Charges are calculated based on standard bag sizes for flights; per person, each way
• Applies to customers traveling on American Airlines marketed and operated flights
• Combined bag allowance for domestic flights: pre-paid bag prices will be optimized across all passengers traveling together in a single reservation
• Other special bags with specific charge (i.e. checked pets) can’t be paid prior to airport arrival
• If you pay for your bags online they are subject to the standard baggage terms, conditions and liability standards as bags paid for at the airport
• If you’re in the U.S. military and traveling on a military fare you will receive complimentary bag pricing. If you’re not traveling on a military fare show your military ID at the check-in counter.
• American Airlines reserves the right to change the rates, terms and conditions at any time prior to purchase with or without notice.

What if I change my flight?

• You can usually transfer bags you pre-paid for to new flights (changes to existing bookings), but not to other passengers
• If you take a different flight on the same day of original booking, the bags that you paid for online will transfer
• If you pay for bags online you can’t use same-day standby

Can I get a refund?

If your flight is disrupted or cancelled and you decide not to fly, you’ll be refunded in full to the original form of payment

Refunds will not be granted if you:

• (a) Cancel your domestic flight on a non-refundable/non- changeable ticket (includes Basic Economy)
• (b) Decide not to fly without rescheduling or cancelling
• (c) Change your mind and decide you no longer need to bring the number of bags previously purchased
• (d) Have a fully refundable ticket and you wish to refund your ticket (ticket will be refunded but bags won’t)
• (e) Purchase or get an upgrade that includes free checked baggage.

If you believe you've been incorrectly charged for bag fees, contact an American representative for help or file a refund claim within 45 days.