Changing travel plans is common these days—and airlines-customer-care-number/" data-type="post" data-id="6811">American Airlines offers a convenient way to retain your flight value in the form of Travel Credit. Whether your trip was canceled by you or the airline, you might have received an American Airlines Trip Credit that can be used for future travel. But how do you use it?
In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know about applying your American Airlines travel credit, including step-by-step instructions, important rules, and answers to frequently asked questions.
What is an American Airlines Travel Credit?
A Travel Credit is a digital voucher issued by American Airlines when a reservation is canceled or changed. It’s a way to hold onto the value of your ticket and apply it toward a future booking.

Types of Travel Credits
- Trip Credit: Issued for most canceled trips. Can be used online.
- Flight Credit: Comes from a ticket cancellation. Can only be used by the original traveler.
- Travel Voucher (Electronic): Sometimes issued for compensation. Can be used by anyone.
When Do You Get Travel Credit?
You are eligible to receive a credit if you:
- Cancel a non-refundable ticket.
- Voluntarily change your itinerary.
- Experience a canceled flight by American Airlines.
Scenarios:
- You book a flight and cancel it: Trip Credit issued.
- Flight gets delayed, you cancel: Trip Credit issued.
- You change flight dates: Difference stored as Trip Credit.
How to Apply American Airlines Travel Credit (Step-by-Step)
✅ Step 1: Visit the Website

Go to the official American Airlines booking site: https://www.aa.com
✅ Step 2: Start a New Flight Booking

- Select your destination, dates, and passenger details.
- Click on “Search” to see available flights.
✅ Step 3: Apply Trip Credit at Checkout
- After choosing your flight, proceed to the payment screen.
- Click “Add Trip Credit” or “Apply Travel Credit”.
- Enter your credit details from the email you received.
✅ Step 4: Complete Payment
- If the new flight costs more, pay the difference.
- If it costs less, the leftover value will remain until expiration.
Important Rules to Remember
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Validity Period | 1 year from issue date |
Transferable? | No (must be used by the original ticket holder) |
Redeem Online? | Yes, for Trip Credits |
Multiple Credits in 1 Booking? | Yes, up to 8 Trip Credits per transaction |
Remaining Value? | Cannot be refunded but can be reused (if applicable) |
Can You Use for Group Bookings? | Only online if all names match original tickets |
If You Change or Cancel Your Reservation
Here’s what happens when you:
✈️ Cancel a Flight
- You’ll receive an email with a Trip Credit number.
- Use that number next time you book.
- Funds remain valid for one year.
🔄 Change a Flight
- If the new ticket is cheaper: you get a credit for the difference.
- If more expensive: you pay the difference at checkout.
Note: No change fees apply for most Main Cabin and above fares on domestic flights.
Where to Find Your American Airlines Trip Credit
Your Trip Credit info will be emailed to you. The email includes:
- 13-character credit number (example: 1A2BC3DE456F7)
- Expiration date
- Instructions on how to use it
You can also view your credit via:
- https://www.aa.com/travel-credit
- Logging into your AAdvantage account
Example: Using Trip Credit in Real Life
John booked a Dallas to Miami flight but had to cancel. He received a Trip Credit via email. A month later, he rebooked a new flight, used the credit at checkout, and only paid the fare difference. Simple and efficient!
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Tips to Maximize Your Travel Credit
- Track Expiration: Use a reminder so you don’t miss the 1-year deadline.
- Be Flexible: Rebooking mid-week or off-peak times may save money.
- Check Baggage Fees: Credits don’t cover baggage unless included in your fare.
- Use for Yourself: Trip Credits can’t be transferred to others.
FAQs: American Airlines Travel Credit
Can I use a Trip Credit for someone else?
No. Trip Credits are non-transferable and must be used by the original ticket holder.
Can I combine multiple Trip Credits?
Yes. You can use up to 8 credits per booking.
What if my Trip Credit expires?
Unfortunately, expired credits cannot be extended or refunded.
Can I use Trip Credit over the phone?
Yes, but a service charge may apply. It’s best to use it online.
Do I need an AAdvantage account to use Trip Credit?
No. You only need the email and credit number to apply.
American Airlines Trip Credits offer a convenient way to retain your ticket value when travel plans change. By understanding the rules and following the proper steps, you can easily apply your American Airlines Travel Credit toward future flights.
Always remember to track your expiration date, know your limitations, and plan ahead. With no change fees and flexible rebooking options, AA makes it easier than ever to fly with peace of mind.
Need to check your Trip Credit? Visit: 👉 https://www.aa.com/travel-credit
If you’ve canceled or changed your reservation recently, don’t let that travel credit go to waste. Book your next trip today!