Can I use a debit card at the airport?
William Jenkins
Updated on January 30, 2026
You may think you need a credit card to purchase an airline ticket. But a debit or prepaid card will work just as well. And your options may even expand to cash and checks if you book your flight through a travel agent or if you purchase your ticket at an airport ticket counter.
Can you pay with cash to check baggage at airport?
Payment transactions at airports As part of our efforts toward creating a faster and more efficient airport experience for our customers, the United check-in counters and kiosks at many airports we serve no longer accept cash as a form of payment.
How do they check your luggage at the airport?
In the United States, most major airports have a computer tomography (CT) scanner. A CT scanner is a hollow tube that surrounds your bag. The X-ray mechanism revolves slowly around it, bombarding it with X-rays and recording the resulting data.
Can I book a flight with a Visa debit card?
Major credit cards and other forms of payment are accepted at Air Canada airport counters around the world. Payment options include debit and prepaid credit cards, Visa Debit, Air Canada Gift Cards and cash.
Is it better to travel with a debit or credit card?
Credit cards offer the most security in general, including while traveling. Unlike debit cards, credit cards aren’t linked to your checking or savings account, so there is no risk of a fraudster accessing your funds.
How can I avoid paying for checked baggage?
The 6 Best Ways To Avoid Checked Bag Fees
- Fly with Airlines that Don’t Charge for Checked Baggage.
- Earn Elite Status with an Airline.
- Choose the Right Airline Credit Card.
- Choose a Travel Card with an Airline Fee Credit.
- Avoid Basic Economy.
- Pack Light and Don’t Check a Bag.
Can I pay for extra luggage at the airport?
If your hand baggage is over the weight limit, you will need to check it in and it will count towards your checked baggage allowance. If this then takes you over your free checked baggage allowance, or if you are travelling on a hand baggage only (Basic) fare, you will need to pay for extra baggage at the airport rate.
What airline does not charge for checked bags?
Southwest Airlines
The only airline to not charge for checked baggage is Southwest Airlines. All other airlines charge fees to check luggage. Some airlines will permit 1 checked bag for free depending on the fare you purchase. If you are a member of a frequent flyer club, you may also qualify for free baggage.
How do I pay for my baggage at the airport?
You pay when you check your luggage in at the airport. They do accept Visa debit cards, and cash at some locations. It’s on their website.
Which is the best debit card for airport lounge?
ICICI Bank Sapphiro Debit Card is a step above ICICI Bank Rubyx Debit Card. You may opt for this card if you need to access airport lounges more than 2 times in a quarter. If not, stick with ICICI Bank Coral Debit Card as it has a lower annual fee.
Do you have to show credit card at airport check in?
If a passenger chooses this option, he will not be required to present the physical payment card and ID at the airport check-in and boarding. Online check-in will also be available for bookings verified this way.
What happens if you buy a plane ticket with a credit card?
When buying plane tickets online using a credit card, keep in mind that some airlines will ask to see said credit card before checking-in at the airport. If you fail to show the card, boarding will be denied without a refund. If a credit card expires after the purchase and is replaced before the flight
