American Airlines Has Increased Checked Bag Fees. Here's How Some Flyers Can Save $5

If you're an American Airlines flyer, there's some news you'll want to know. On Feb. 20, the airline announced that it would be raising checked bag fees. These fee increases apply to passengers with airline tickets issued on or after today. We'll explain the new fees and share how some travelers can get a $5 discount on their first checked bag.

American Airlines flyers will now pay more to check a bag

Americans Airlines officially updated its checked bag fees on its website on Feb. 20, 2024. Travelers flying on some routes will now pay $5 to $10 more to check a bag. Fees vary by route, ticket type, and whether the traveler checks one or multiple bags. Here's an overview of the updated American Airlines checked bag fees for several popular routes and ticket types.

Travel between the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands

For tickets purchased on Feb. 20 or later, basic economy and main cabin passengers flying between these regions will now pay $40 for their first checked bag. A second checked bag costs $45 for these routes and ticket types. For basic economy and main cabin tickets purchased before Feb. 20, a first check bag costs $30, and a second check bag costs $40.

Travel between Canada and the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands

For tickets purchased on Feb. 20 or later, basic economy and main cabin passengers flying between these regions will now pay $35 for their first checked bag. A second checked bag costs $45 for these routes and ticket types. For basic economy and main cabin tickets purchased before Feb. 20, a first check bag costs $30, and a second check bag costs $40.

Other routes are also impacted. If you're an American Airlines flyer, you'll want to review these fee changes before buying your next ticket. Knowing how much you'll pay to check one or more bags can allow you to be financially prepared before takeoff.

Paying for your first checked bag online will save you $5

If you fly with American Airlines often and like to check your bags, this is likely disappointing news. But the airline is offering some flyers the opportunity to save $5 on their first checked bag.

Travelers flying within or between the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands can get a $5 discount by paying their checked bag fees online through the American Airlines website or mobile app. This solution offers an easy way to keep more money in your wallet.

How to get free checked bag benefits

Don't want to pay to check a bag? Here are a few ways to qualify for free checked bag perks:

• Travel with a carry-on bag only: One way to avoid checked bag fees is to bring a carry-on bag. American Airlines allows passengers on all ticket types (even basic economy) to bring a carry-on bag at no additional cost. Excelling at being a light packer can be a win for your bank account balance.
• Invest in a premium ticket: When flying on some American Airlines ticket types, like premium economy, business, and first, travelers aren't charged checked bag fees. If you want to avoid these fees, you may want to splurge for premium airfare.
• Get an airline credit card: Another way to avoid checked bag fees is to have the right credit card. Some airline credit cards provide cardholders free checked bag perks on select routes. Review our list of the best American Airlines credit cards to learn more.
• Earn elite status: Another way to avoid paying checked bag fees when flying with your favorite airline is to achieve elite status. Depending on your status tier, you could qualify for one or more free checked bags when you fly with the airline.

Whether you're a member of team carry-on only or a traveler who prefers to check a bag, staying alert to airline pricing updates like this is essential. Knowing what to expect regarding extra fees can allow you to outline a realistic vacation budget and make travel plans that match your financial situation. Looking for more ways to save money? Check out our personal finance resources.