Lois Larson
Yes, you can purchase a checked bag at the airport. However, the option to do so varies by airline and airport. For example, Delta Air Lines offers a direct ticketing service for customers who wish to purchase their tickets in person at airports, but all Delta airport locations within the US and most international locations are designated cashless and do not accept cash. American Airlines also allows customers to pay for checked bags at the airport, but recommends purchasing them online ahead of time to get the best price available. Alaska Airlines allows customers to pay for checked bags at any of their airport ticket counters, but baggage acceptance hours vary by airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of bags | The number of bags that can be checked varies by airline and the type of ticket purchased. For example, Delta Airlines allows SkyMiles members to check their first bag for free, while American Airlines allows up to 3 checked bags per person. |
| Bag weight | Bag weight limits vary by airline and route. For example, Delta Airlines allows a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg) for the first checked bag on domestic flights, while American Airlines allows a maximum weight of 70 lbs (32 kgs) for flights to Cuba. |
| Bag size | Bag size limits vary by airline. For example, American Airlines calculates the size limit by adding the total outside dimensions of each bag (length + width + height). Alaska Airlines states that no single piece of checked baggage may exceed 100 pounds and/or 115" (linear). |
| Bag fees | Bag fees vary by airline, route, and type of ticket purchased. For example, Delta Airlines offers free checked bags for SkyMiles members, while American Airlines charges a $40 fee for the first checked bag within the U.S. ($35 if paid online). |
| Payment methods | Payment methods vary by airline. For example, Delta Airlines accepts miles as payment for checked bags, while Alaska Airlines accepts payment during online check-in or at airport ticket counters. |
| Timing | Some airlines allow passengers to pay for checked bags in advance, while others require payment at the airport. For example, American Airlines allows passengers to pay for up to 3 checked bags before arriving at the airport, while Alaska Airlines recommends allowing enough time to pay for baggage and check it in before the cutoff time at the departure airport. |
| Restrictions | Some airlines have restrictions on the types of items that can be checked or the total number of bags during peak travel periods. For example, Delta Airlines limits passengers traveling to or from Key West, Florida to one checked bag, while Alaska Airlines exempts strollers, car seats, and mobility aids from baggage charges. |
| Refunds | Some airlines offer refunds for delayed or lost checked bags. For example, American Airlines offers refunds if a mishandled baggage report is filed within a certain timeframe. |
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What You'll Learn
Paying for checked bags online vs. at the airport
Yes, you can purchase a checked bag at the airport. However, it is generally recommended that you pay for your checked bags online, as this will often secure you the best available price. American Airlines, for example, offers customers the chance to "get the best price available" by paying for their checked bags on their website or via their app. This is also a convenient option, as it saves you from having to wait in line at the airport.
If you are travelling with multiple passengers on the same reservation, it is worth noting that you will need to select your bags and check in at a kiosk together. This applies whether you pay for your bags online or at the airport.
The number of bags you can pay for online may vary between airlines. For example, American Airlines allows customers to pay for up to three checked bags per person before arriving at the airport. If you are checking more than three bags per person, you will need to add these additional bags at the airport.
It is also important to be aware of the time frame in which you can pay for your bags online. For example, American Airlines allows customers to pay for their bags online starting 24 hours and up to 2 hours before their scheduled departure.
Finally, it is worth noting that some types of bags may require payment at the airport. For example, American Airlines requires that special bags with specific charges, such as cabin pets, be paid for at the airport.
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Bag weight and size restrictions
For example, American Airlines calculates the size limits of bags by adding the total outside dimensions of each bag, including length, width, and height. The airline also has different weight restrictions depending on the route. For flights to and from Australia or New Zealand, the weight limit for free bags in First or Business class is 70 lbs/32 kg, and 50 lbs/23 kg for excess charged bags. For all other regions, the weight limit for free bags is 50 lbs/23 kg, and 35 lbs/16 kg for excess charged bags.
Emirates flights also have different baggage policies depending on the origin of the flight. For flights from North/South America or Africa, economy special fares include one piece of luggage weighing up to 50 lbs/23 kg, while other economy tickets include two bags. For flights from the Middle East to Europe, passengers can check as many bags as they like within a weight limit of 44 lbs/20 kg for special fares, 55 lbs/25 kg for saver fares, and 60 lbs/27 kg for flex fares.
On the other hand, Norwegian charges by the leg rather than by the bag, with fees ranging from $14 to $39 per leg for international flights when purchased online, and a flat rate of $50 per leg when purchased at the airport.
In general, the most common weight limit for checked luggage is 50 lbs/23 kg per bag, and airlines usually charge extra for bags that exceed this limit. Some airlines may also have size restrictions for large or awkwardly shaped items, such as sports equipment or musical instruments.
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Baggage fees for multi-airline trips
When booking a trip with multiple airlines, it is important to note that baggage fees may vary across different airlines. Therefore, it is recommended to check the latest baggage fee information on the individual websites of the airlines you are flying with.
For instance, American Airlines allows you to pay for up to three checked bags per person before arriving at the airport. However, if you are checking more than three bags per person, you must add the additional bags at the airport. The airline also offers the option to pay for bags online in advance for eligible American Airlines-marketed and operated flights.
On the other hand, Alaska Airlines notes that travel that includes specific flight numbers operated by partner airlines, such as Qantas, British Airways, Air Tahiti Nui, and Qatar Airways, is subject to different baggage fees and rules. Hence, it is essential to refer to your travel confirmation to determine which airline's baggage policy applies.
It is worth noting that some airlines may offer refunds for delayed or lost checked bags, provided a mishandled baggage report is filed within a specified timeframe. Additionally, if you believe you have been incorrectly charged for bag fees, you can contact the airline's representative or file a refund claim, typically within 45 days.
To avoid unexpected charges, it is advisable to review the baggage policies of all the airlines involved in your trip and plan accordingly. Each airline's website should provide detailed information on their specific baggage allowances, weight and size restrictions, and any associated fees for exceeding these limits.
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Discounts and waivers for checked bags
Many airlines offer discounts and waivers for checked bags. Here are some ways to avail of these benefits:
Airline Credit Cards
Carrying an airline credit card can often provide benefits such as a free first checked bag for the cardholder and sometimes for companions travelling on the same itinerary. For example, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card comes with a free first checked bag perk for up to nine people on a reservation. Similarly, American Airlines offers a Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® card where the first checked bag is free on domestic itineraries for you and up to four travel companions on the same reservation.
Elite Status
Many airline frequent flyer programs allow members with elite status to fly with checked bags for free. For example, United MileagePlus Premier members flying in the main cabin get baggage fees waived for one to three checked bags, depending on their status level. American Airlines also offers up to three free checked bags for those with AAdvantage® status or oneworld® status on itineraries marketed and operated by the airline.
Military and Dependents
Active-duty military personnel and their dependents on the same itinerary can often fly with checked bags at no cost. For example, JetBlue allows military personnel and their dependents to fly with two bags each at no cost when travelling for leisure, and there is usually a higher free bag allowance when military members are flying for duty. American Airlines also offers free bags for active U.S. military and/or dependents with ID travelling on orders (first to fifth bags free of charge).
Upgrade Options
Upgrading your ticket to a higher class can sometimes include the benefit of checking bags at no additional cost. For example, Delta Air Lines offers a free first checked bag for Card Members, saving up to $70 on a round-trip flight per person. American Airlines also offers the option to buy or upgrade to a ticket that includes free checked bags.
Online Check-In
Some airlines provide a discounted rate for checked bags if you pay for them online before arriving at the airport. For instance, American Airlines offers a $5 discount on the first checked bag fee for travel within and between the U.S. if you pay online. Additionally, they offer the option to check up to three bags when you check-in on their website or mobile app, which can help you avoid longer lines at the airport.
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Lost, delayed, or damaged checked bags
Although most checked bags arrive at their destination on time and in good condition, bags can sometimes be delayed, damaged, or lost in transit. If your checked bag is delayed, you should make a report to help the airline locate it. Some airlines offer applications that provide passengers with data on the location of their baggage. If your bag is not found within 21 days of your arrival, it is likely lost, and you may be eligible for reimbursement.
If your checked bag is damaged, you can submit a claim to repair or replace it. Airlines are responsible for repairing or reimbursing a passenger for damaged baggage and/or its contents when the damage occurs while the bag is under the airline's control during transportation. However, airlines often exclude liability for certain categories of items, such as fragile items, electronics, cash, perishable items, and other valuables. These exclusions are typically listed in the airline's contract of carriage.
If you discover items missing from your checked bag, you must report it within 24 hours of arrival for domestic flights and within 7 days for international flights. You may be required to provide receipts or other proof for valuable items that were in the lost bags. Airlines are required to compensate passengers if their bags are damaged, delayed, or lost, but they may limit their liability. For domestic flights, airlines may limit their liability to a maximum of $4,700 per passenger, while for international flights, the Montreal Convention sets a maximum baggage liability of 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (approximately $1,700) per passenger.
To minimize the chances of damage, delay, or loss of your checked bag, you can follow the tips provided in the DOT's Fly Rights publication. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid over-packing, as it can cause stress on seams and zippers, making it more likely for the bag to tear or break. It is also advisable to avoid checking old or worn bags and bags that don't close completely, as they are more susceptible to damage.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can purchase a checked bag at the airport. Some airlines allow you to pay for your checked bag at a kiosk, while others have a ticket counter where you can pay.
The number of checked bags you can purchase depends on the airline and your destination. Some airlines allow you to purchase up to 3 checked bags per person, while others may have different limits.
Yes, most airlines accept credit card payments for checked bags. However, some airlines may have specific rules regarding credit card usage, so it is best to check with your airline beforehand.
If you believe you have been incorrectly charged, you can contact the airline's customer service or file a refund claim within a certain timeframe, usually 45 days.
Yes, each airline has specific weight and size restrictions for checked bags. These restrictions are usually outlined on the airline's website or can be provided by a customer service representative.
