Lois Larson
Yes, you can pay for checked bags at the airport. However, it is generally cheaper to pay for checked bags online before arriving at the airport. Airlines such as American Airlines allow passengers to pay for up to three checked bags per person online or through their app. The number of free bags you can check also depends on your highest status level at the time of ticketing or check-in. For example, if you have AAdvantage® status or oneworld® status, you may be eligible for up to three free checked bags on itineraries marketed and operated by American Airlines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Where to pay for checked bags | At the airport or online during check-in |
| When to pay for checked bags | 24 hours to 2 hours before the scheduled departure |
| Cost of checked bags | Varies by airline, destination, and number of bags. For example, the first checked bag fee within/between the US, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands is $40 ($35 if paid online), and the second checked bag fee is $45. |
| Weight allowance | Varies by airline and destination. For example, the weight allowance for American Airlines within/between the US, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands is 70 lbs/32 kgs for free bags and 50 lbs/23 kgs for excess charged bags. |
| Size allowance | Varies by airline. For example, Alaska Airlines allows a maximum total linear size of 115" for checked bags. |
| Restrictions | Some airlines have restrictions on the number of checked bags per person, and there may be additional charges for special items such as cabin pets. |
| Refunds | Some airlines offer refunds for incorrect charges within a specified time frame. |
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What You'll Learn
Paying for checked bags at the airport vs online
Yes, you can pay for checked bags at the airport. However, it is generally recommended to pay for checked bags online or in-app before arriving at the airport, as you can often get a better price. Airlines such as American Airlines advise travelers to check up to three bags online or in-app to get the best price available and avoid waiting in line at the airport.
Paying for checked bags at the airport
If you choose to pay for checked bags at the airport, you will typically need to go to the check-in counter, wait in line, and have your bag weighed. Some airports also offer self-service kiosks where you can weigh your bag and then take it to the bag drop. It's important to note that some airlines have strict weight limits for checked bags, and you may be charged extra for overweight bags. Additionally, some airlines may have an upper limit on the weight of individual pieces of luggage that cannot be exceeded, regardless of extra charges.
Benefits of paying for checked bags online or in-app
Paying for checked bags online or through an airline's app can offer several advantages over paying at the airport. Firstly, you can often get the best available price for your checked bags by booking them in advance. Secondly, checking in online allows you to choose your seats before other passengers, increasing the likelihood of getting your preferred seat. Additionally, some airlines have separate, shorter lines for passengers who have already checked in online, allowing for faster processing and potentially reducing the time you need to spend at the airport.
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Weight and size limits for checked bags
The weight and size limits for checked bags vary by airline, destination, and length of flight. It's important to check the specific policies of your airline before travelling to avoid any unexpected fees.
Most airlines have a checked luggage size limit of 62 linear inches, which is the sum of the length, width, and depth of the bag. Some airlines have different size restrictions, but the 62-inch rule is standard. If you're travelling with standard luggage items like a suitcase, size limits typically won't be an issue. However, for large or awkwardly shaped items like sports equipment or musical instruments, you may need to pay an additional fee.
The most common weight limit for checked luggage is 50 pounds per bag, but this can vary by airline. Some airlines have a limit of 70 pounds, while others won't carry individual bags that weigh more than 100 pounds. If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you will likely be charged overweight bag fees, which can be quite costly. For example, fees typically range from $100 for bags weighing 1-20 pounds over the limit to $200 for bags 21-50 pounds over.
It's worth noting that some airlines include at least one item of checked luggage in the price of your flight, while others may charge for each checked bag. Additionally, some airlines offer free checked bags for certain classes, such as business or first class. If you need to check more than the included number of bags, you will likely need to pay an additional fee.
To save money, it's generally recommended to pay for checked bags online before arriving at the airport. Many airlines offer discounted rates for checked bags when purchased in advance through their website or mobile app. However, it's important to plan ahead as these discounted rates may only be available up to a certain number of hours before your flight.
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Airlines that charge for checked bags
Many airlines now charge a fee for checked bags, with some even charging for carry-on luggage. These fees can vary depending on the airline, the weight and size of the bag, and the travel destination. It's important to check the airline's policy before heading to the airport to avoid unexpected charges.
American Airlines, for example, charges a $40 fee for the first checked bag within or between the US, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. This fee is reduced to $35 if paid online. For basic economy travel to/from specific regions, such as Haiti, Colombia, and South America, the first bag fee ranges from $35 to $60. American Airlines also offers free checked bags for eligible AAdvantage® credit cardholders and active US military personnel traveling on orders.
Delta charges $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. They allow one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Overweight bags over 50 pounds incur additional fees, ranging from $100 to $200 depending on the weight and destination.
Southwest Airlines previously allowed two free checked bags but will start charging for baggage in late May 2025. The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card offers free checked bags with an annual fee of $69, although it is unclear if this will change when the new baggage policy takes effect.
Alaska Airlines charges $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. They permit free carry-on bags, but overweight bags between 51 and 100 pounds incur a $100 fee, and oversized bags between 63 and 115 linear inches cost $150.
Some airlines, like Spirit and Frontier, have lower weight caps for standard checked bags, allowing only 40 pounds instead of the typical 50 pounds offered by most airlines. These variations in policies and fees highlight the importance of reviewing specific airline guidelines before traveling.
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Upgrading tickets to include checked bags
Upgrading your ticket to include checked bags can be a convenient option, especially if you anticipate needing to bring extra luggage on your trip. Here are some key points to consider when upgrading your ticket for checked baggage allowance:
Airline Policies:
Different airlines have varying policies regarding checked baggage upgrades. Some airlines, like American Airlines, offer the option to purchase upgrades that include free checked bags. Others, like WestJet, allow you to bid for an upgrade within 24 hours of departure, which may include increased baggage allowance. It's important to review the specific policies of your chosen airline to understand their upgrade options and any associated fees.
Booking Process:
When booking your flight, look for the "Extras" or "Add-ons" section, where you can typically select additional checked baggage options. If your fare already includes a carry-on bag, it will usually be automatically selected. If not, you may have the option to purchase a carry-on or checked bag during the booking process.
Weight and Size Restrictions:
Keep in mind that airlines often have weight and size restrictions for checked baggage. There may be additional fees for overweight, excess, or oversized bags. These fees can vary by airline and destination, so it's important to review their specific guidelines. Some airlines may also have an upper limit on the weight of individual pieces of luggage, beyond which no additional charges will be accepted.
Timing and Flexibility:
In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to purchase checked baggage upgrades during the initial booking process or shortly after. Certain airlines offer discounted rates for purchasing baggage allowances online or through their app in advance. Additionally, last-minute upgrades at the airport may incur higher fees, so planning ahead can sometimes save you money.
Alternative Options:
Before upgrading your ticket solely for checked baggage allowance, consider other options. For example, if you have a carry-on allowance, you may be able to redistribute the weight between your carry-on and checked bags to avoid overweight charges. Alternatively, purchasing a second bag might be more economical than paying for an overweight bag.
Upgrading your ticket to include checked bags can provide flexibility and peace of mind, especially if you require additional luggage space. By understanding the specific policies and options offered by your chosen airline, you can make an informed decision and ensure a smoother travel experience.
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What to do if you've been incorrectly charged for checked bags
Yes, you can pay for checked bags at the airport. The process varies slightly depending on the airport, but typically, you go to the check-in counter, wait in line, and they will weigh your bag and charge the extra fee. Some airports also offer self-service kiosks where you can pay for your bags and then proceed to the bag drop. It is generally recommended to arrive at the airport early if you have checked bags, as the bag drop process can take some time.
Now, if you've been incorrectly charged for checked bags, here's what you can do:
- Contact the airline: Get in touch with a representative of the airline as soon as possible. Explain the situation and provide any relevant documentation or proof of incorrect charges. They will be able to guide you through the process of rectifying the issue and may offer an immediate solution.
- File a refund claim: Many airlines allow you to file a refund claim for incorrect charges. Make sure to do this within the specified time frame, which is often within 45 days of the incident. Provide detailed information about the incorrect charge and any supporting evidence.
- Review your baggage allowance: Before taking further steps, carefully review the baggage allowance policies of the airline. Understand the weight and size restrictions, as well as any additional charges that may apply. This information will help you determine if the charges were indeed incorrect.
- Gather evidence: Collect any relevant documentation, such as your boarding pass, baggage claim ticket, and receipts. If possible, take photos of your luggage, including any weight measurements taken at the airport. This evidence will support your claim of incorrect charges.
- Contact your payment provider: If the issue is not resolved promptly by the airline, consider contacting your credit card company or payment provider. They may be able to assist you in disputing the charge and initiating a chargeback procedure.
- Seek external assistance: If all else fails, you may seek external assistance from a consumer protection organization or a travel industry ombudsman. They can provide impartial advice and help mediate between you and the airline to resolve the issue.
Remember to act promptly and keep detailed records of your communications and attempts to resolve the issue. By following these steps, you can effectively address any incorrect charges for checked bags and ensure a fair resolution.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can pay for checked bags at the airport. You can pay at a kiosk or at the check-in desk. However, it is cheaper to pay for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.
You can pay for your bags online starting 24 hours and up to 2 hours before your scheduled departure.
Paying for your checked bags online is cheaper than paying at the airport. It also saves you from waiting in line at the airport.
You can pay for your checked bags online during the check-in process on the airline's website or through their mobile app.
If you take a different domestic flight than your original flight, you will need to pay for checked bags on your new trip.
