Whether you wanted to prepay for luggage at the airport or buy physical luggage (suitcases, bags) at the airports, in this post we will cover both.
Generally you can usually pay for baggage at the airline check-in counter or self-service kiosks, though pre-purchasing online is often cheaper. Most major airports also have specialty luggage shops, duty-free, and convenience stores where you can buy suitcases if needed, but airport prices are typically higher than elsewhere. Let’s dive into the details.
In this post I will cover everything you need to know about paying for luggage at the airport check in counter and also if you are planning to buy a suitcase the airpot shops.
Let’s dive right in to more details.
TL;DR
- Yes, you can both pay for checked or extra baggage at the airport.
- You can also buy a suitcase from airport shops if you need one last minute.
- Paying baggage fees online in advance is usually cheaper, and airport luggage stores often have higher prices and limited selections.
- Airport counters and kiosks make the process convenient, but planning ahead can save you money and give you more options.
- Some airport may not accept cash if you wanted to buy your luggage
Can You Pay For a Checked Bag at The Airport?
Yes, you can pay any checked baggage fees at the airport.
You will be asked a few questions by the agent about the size and weight of your bag, and to make sure your luggage doesn’t contain any fragile or restricted items.
Then, they will print out the tag that identifies your bag.
Related:
- How to take extra luggage in flights ?
- Can I take a box as checked baggage?
- How strict are Airlines About carry on weight limits?
Can You Pay For Extra Baggage At The Airport?
Yes, you can pay for extra baggage at the airport; however, it is always better and cheaper to pay online.
If you do not know whether your excess baggage exceeds the airline luggage allowance, you can pay the additional fee at the check-in desk at the airport.
Can You Buy a Suitcase or Bag at the Airport?
Yes you can buy a suitcase at most airpots.
If you forget or need a suitcase at the last minute, many airports have specialized luggage shops and retail stores.
Often located both before and after security, to help with broken bags, packing crises, or last-minute purchases.
But here is what to keep in mind before you buy a suitcase at the airpot:
- Prices are usually higher than online or local stores.
- You have limited choice, not all brand are available.
- Consider the type of bag you need: carry-on, checked bag, or specialty luggage.
- Check if the store is located before or after security you might not be able to buy a checked bag past security checkpoints.
When to Buy Luggage:
| Scenario | Airport Store | Online Store | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broken luggage | Immediate replacement | Delivery time | Buy at airport |
| Last-minute travel | Convenient | Shipping delay | Buy at airport |
| Planned purchase | Expensive | Lower price, variety | Buy online |
| Souvenir storage | Extra bag needed | Not practical | Buy at airport |
Is Baggage More Expensive At The Airport?
Passengers often ask: Is it cheaper to pay for checked bags online or at the airport?
Yes, many airlines charge higher fees at the airport compared to their websites. It’s always preferable to check your airline website before booking and buy luggage online if possible.
This can save a significant amount of money, especially if you are traveling with multiple bags.
Can You Buy Luggage At The Airport?
Buy Luggage Delta Airlines
For international trips, extra bag fees per way vary by destination:
| Region | Bag 3 | Bags 4–10 |
|---|---|---|
| U.S./ Canada | $150 USD/CAD | $200 USD/CAD each |
| Caribbean | $150 USD/CAD | $200 USD/CAD each |
| Europe / North Africa | $285 USD / $330 CAD / €240 EUR | per bag |
| Asia / Everywhere else | $200 USD/CAD/EUR | per bag |
Buy Luggage American Airlines
If you are flying with American Airlines, then you can also choose the option to pay for your luggage at the airport.
- For domestic U.S. flights, $35 USD for the first bag, $45 USD for the second bag, but the charges will be generally higher if you pay them at the airport.
- For international flights the changes will vary by region. For example, flights to Europe typically cost around $90 USD per checked bag.
- You can pay using your credit / debit card at kiosks or counters, but keep in mind that cash is not always accepted.
Buy Luggage Air France
When flying Air France you can pay for extra baggage at the airport:
- Domestic and European flights: Around €35–€50 per additional bag.
- International flights: $75–$150 USD depending on destination.
- Bags must adhere to weight and size restrictions. Oversized or overweight luggage incurs additional fees.
Buy Luggage British Airways
If your checked baggage is over the British Airways baggage allowance, you will have to pay extra baggage charges:
- 65 GBP / 75 EUR / 100 USD / 100 CAD per overweight bag (one-way journey)
- If departing from a country with a different currency, the GBP amount will be converted to the local currency.
- At many airports (London Heathrow, Gatwick, and in North America), payment is accepted only by credit or debit card cash is not accepted.
- Weight limit per bag cannot be split across multiple bags. No bag over 32 kg is accepted as checked baggage.
Buy Luggage Lufthansa
If your checked baggage exceeds the allowance, Lufthansa offers Economy Class passengers discounted flat rates for a second piece of checked baggage (up to 23 kg / up to 158 cm) on certain routes.
If traveling with another airline, contact the operating airline directly for their excess baggage charges.
Buy Luggage Ethiopian Airlines
For flights from Washington D.C., Newark, New York-JFK, Chicago, and Houston to Addis Ababa and beyond:
| Sector | Conditions | Fee |
| Addis Ababa ↔ US cities | Each additional piece ≤ 23 kg (50 lbs) | USD 160 |
| US cities → Middle East & Asia | Each additional piece ≤ 23 kg | USD 250 |
| US cities → Other destinations | Each additional piece ≤ 23 kg | USD 200 |
| Within free allowance but overweight (23–32 kg) | Economy Class | USD 60 per bag |
Infants paying 10% of the fare and not occupying a seat are entitled to one checked bag (10 kg) plus one fully collapsible stroller or pushchairs.
Final Thoughts
You can buy luggage at most airports, whether it’s a standard checked bag, extra baggage, or a last-minute need for a suitcase.
While airport counters and kiosks make it convenient to handle fees and purchases, it’s usually more cheaper if you prepay online.
And if you are planing to buy a suitcase at the airport, buying luggage at airport shops can solve immediate problems, but expect higher prices, limited selections, and location restrictions around security checkpoints.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
Buying Luggage at the Airport FAQ
-
Are there benefits to buying luggage at the airport?
Yes, the big advantage is convenience, so you can immediately replace broken luggage or purchase an extra bag before your flight. This can help avoid overweight or oversized baggage fees at the check-in counter. -
Can I buy luggage on an international airport?
Yes, many international airports have luggage stores and shops. However, availability, brands, and pricing can vary by airport, and local taxes or duties may apply. -
Are airport luggage stores reliable for emergency replacements?
Yes. Airport luggage shops are designed for emergencies, such as damaged or lost baggage, making them a great place to go when you need something quickly. -
Can You Pay for Baggage With Cash at the Airport?
Sometimes, but not always. Many airlines now prefer payment by credit or debit card at airport counters or kiosks. Some airports may still accept cash, but it’s safer to bring a card to avoid any delays. -
Can You Buy Luggage at the Airport After Security?
Yes, some airports have luggage or travel accessory stores after security. However, these bags are usually intended for carry-on use. If you need a suitcase to check in, it’s best to buy it before going through security so you can drop it off at the airline counter. -
What Should You Do If Your Suitcase Breaks at the Airport?
If your suitcase breaks at the airport, look for luggage shops or travel stores in the terminal where you can quickly buy a replacement. Some airports also offer luggage repair or wrapping services that may temporarily fix the problem so you can continue your trip without stress. -
Why do airports have stores that sell luggage?
Airport luggage stores exist for travelers whose bags are damaged, lost, or overweight. They also cater to passengers needing extra space for souvenirs or last-minute trips.
