A recent article on CNN is talking about a pilot program at American Airlines that allows travelers without bags to board after First Class and Elite Status passengers. Fliers are reluctant to check bags because of the fees the airlines charge, which leads to even more people with carry-ons.
I don’t like checking bags because I tend to take short trips and don’t want to waste precious time waiting for baggage claim to spit out my bags.
But, what if I told you there was a way to check bags for free, then board ahead of others?
Credit cards offer many perks beyond just the account opening bonus and miles earned for spending. Many cards offer checked bags for free and often allow you to board after First & Business class passengers and Elite travelers.
Here are some examples:
Citibank American Airlines AAdvantage cards
– First checked bag for free for up to 4 passengers listed on the same reservation
– Priority boarding with Group 1 privileges
– Other benefits
Barclay’s US Airways® Premier World Mastercard®
– Priority Zone 2 boarding
– First Class check-in
– No first checked bag free
– Two annual companion passes for $99 each
Chase United Airlines Visa
– First bag checked free for you and a companion on the same reservation
– Board after Premier members and before general boarding
So, as you can see there are many options where you can check bags for free, then board ahead of others! You can check bags, carry them on, or both… when you take advantage of the privileges offered by these cards.
Being able to check bags for free, then board ahead of others is wicked cool.