A Comprehensive Guide to American Airlines Baggage Allowance

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By Elena Porter
Updated November 08, 2024 8:05 AM EST

American Airlines offers free carry-on and personal item allowance, with fees for extra, oversized, or overweight bags.

Wondering how to navigate baggage fees and allowances with American Airlines? You're already at the right place to resolve all your baggage struggles. Whether you're packing light or checking a bag, we'll help you avoid unexpected fees. From understanding baggage types to knowing what essentials you can bring along, we've got the insightful tips you need. Say goodbye to extreme baggage struggles! Let's decode the American Airlines baggage policy so you can travel smarter and lighter.

What is my baggage allowance with American Airlines?

Under American Airlines baggage allowance, American Airlines allows one free carry-on and personal item for most fares. Checked bags must weigh under 50 lbs.

Here's the detailed essentials of the American Airlines baggage Allowance:

➤ Carry-on Baggage:

• 👜 Personal item: Free
• 🎒 Carry-on bag: Free

➤ Checked Baggage:

1. Travel within the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands:

• 💼 1st checked bag: $40 ($35 if paid online)
• 💼 2nd checked bag: $45

1. Travel to/from Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and Guyana:

• 💼 1st checked bag: $35
• 💼 2nd checked bag: $45

➤ Oversized/Overweight Bags:

• ✨ Extra fees apply for oversized or overweight checked bags.

➤ Special Items:

• 🎾 Sports equipment and large items may incur additional fees.

Read More: A Guide to AmericanAirlinesBusiness Class!

How many bags you can carry on American Airlines for free?

You can easily bring one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a briefcase, small purse, or laptop bag) for free under American Airlines carry on guidelines. The American Airlines carry on Size must not exceed (22 x 14 x 9 in) or 45 linear inches under American Airlines carry on policy.

What are the American Airlines personal item size requirements?

American Airlines allows one personal item, like a purse or small backpack, to fit under the seat in front of you. It must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).

Is there a carry-on weight limit on American Airlines?

American Airlines doesn't have a strict weight limit for carry-on bags, but it's best to keep your bag light enough to easily lift into the overhead bin or must fit under the seat in front of you. While there's no specific American Airlines carry-on baggage weight limit, knowing your bag's weight can make boarding smooth and more stress-free.

How strict are American Airlines on carry-on size?

American Airlines is quite strict about carry-on size. Your bag must fit within the American Airlines carry on dimensions of 22in x 14in x 9in to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.

FlyO Tip: Bulkhead seats don't have under-seat storage, so you must store your carry-on in the overhead bin during take-off and landing.

How many free checked bags does American Airlines allow?

American Airlines offers one free checked bag for passengers flying in premium cabins or those with elite status. However, most economy passengers must pay for checked bags, with additional fees depending on the ticket type and destination route.

Is there a weight limit for a checked bag on American Airlines?

Yes, American Airlines allows checked bags up to 50 pounds (23 kg) under American Airlines checked baggage weight requirements. Bags exceeding this weight limit will incur an additional overweight fee. Premium cabin travelers can check heavier bags at no extra cost.

Is there a size restriction on checked baggage on American Airlines?

Yes, checked bag dimensions must not exceed 62 inches (157 cm) in total (length + width + height). Bags that go over this American Airlines checked bag size will incur extra fees as per the American Airlines checked baggage policy.

FlyO Tip: Keep bags under 50 lbs (23 kgs) to avoid fees. For First/Business Class, you can bring up to 70 lbs (32 kgs) for free. ✨

How much does American Airlines charge per bag?

American Airlines charges a standard fee for the first checked bag, which is $40, and will charge $45 for the second checked bag on all domestic flights. International fees can vary, and additional charges will apply for overweight or oversized luggage under the American Airlines baggage fees & allowances.

Does American Airlines charge for carry-on fees?

American Airlines carry on fee guidelines do not charge for carry-on bags. Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag (22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches) and one personal item, such as 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches, for free, including those flying on basic economy tickets.

If you exceed baggage limits or need an extra checked bag, American Airlines carry-on fees will apply based on your fare and destination.

For more assistance, contact FlyOfinder at +1-571-378-7016 to connect with our travel experts.

Read More: How Does American Airlines Upgrade Seats?

How much does American charge for a checked bag?

American Airlines generally charges $40 for the first checked bag ($35 if paid online) and $45 for the second on domestic flights. For international destinations like Canada, the Caribbean, and Mexico, the first bag costs $35, and the second is $45. Here's what you need to know about the American Airlines checked baggage fees:

FlyO Tip: For transatlantic basic economy, the first checked bag costs €70 / £60 / $75. Main Plus passengers enjoy a free checked bag (up to two maximum).

How much does American Airlines charge for excess baggage?

American Airlines charges for extra baggage based on your destination and travel class. Fees start at $150 for additional bags on domestic routes and vary for international flights.

The American Airlines excess baggage fees will cost $150 for the 3rd and $200 for the 4th to/from the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Fees are $200 for both bags to/from Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, Cuba, and other international destinations.

Learn More: American Airlines Missed Flight: Here's What to Do!

How much does American charge for overweight baggage?

American Airlines charges fees for overweight bags based on their weight and destination. Bags weighing 53–70 lbs are charged $100, while bags between 71–100 lbs incur a $200 fee. Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted.

If you need to know about the American Airlines overweight baggage fees for different destinations:

FlyO Tip: Bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person each way. If charged incorrectly, contact our American Airlines reservations within 45 days to request a refund or assistance.

How much does American Airlines charge for an oversized bag?

The American Airlines oversize baggage fees are based on its size standards & dimensions. For bags between 62–65 inches, a $30 fee applies. Bags between 65–115 inches incur a $200 fee. Bags over 115 inches are not accepted.

Here's what you must know about the American Airlines oversize baggage fees:

How much does American Airlines charge for oversized baggage international?

American charges different fees for international oversized baggage depending on the bag's region and size restrictions under the American Airlines baggage Policy.

For more help managing the airline flight bookings, call us at +1-571-378-7016.

Read More: American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor: Key Details!

How much does American Airlines charge for special items and sports equipment?

American Airlines charges specific fees for special items and sports equipment based on Size, weight, and item type under the American Airlines baggage policy.

Common sports gear like skis, golf bags, and bicycles are generally treated as standard checked luggage but will incur additional fees for overweight or oversized items.

• Special items can weigh up to 100 lbs and have a size limit of 115 inches, with some exceptions for specific destinations.
• Overweight or oversized fees apply for items exceeding the standard weight & size limits.
• Certain items like javelins or hang gliders aren't accepted. Larger items may need to be shipped through a freight forwarder.

FlyO Tip: Pack items in a hard-sided case to avoid being classified as fragile, ensuring safe handling and preventing extra charges.

What are the baggage restriction policies for American Airlines?

American Airlines baggage Allowance restricts items like cutting instruments, damaged lithium batteries, animal products (when flying to the E.U.), drones (with battery limits), dry ice (up to 5.5 lbs), and flammable materials. Always check their restricted items list before packing for your next trip with American Airlines.

• ❌ Prohibited Items: Flammable liquids, explosives, and firearms are banned. Penalties for non-declaration can include fines and prison.
• 🍷 Alcohol: Alcohol under 70% A.B.V. allowed in checked bags (max 5L).
• 🔋 Lithium Batteries: Max 100Wh for carry-on; over 160Wh is banned.
• 💧 Liquids: 3.4oz (100ml) max in carry-ons. Larger items must go in checked bags.
• 🚁 Drones: Allowed with a battery under 160Wh and within size limits.
• ♿ Mobility Devices: Electric wheelchairs with spillable batteries are not allowed.
• ✂️ Scissors & Tools: Scissors under 4 inches and small tools allowed in carry-ons.

Does American have free bags for veterans?

Yes, Veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their dependents can check bags for free with American Airlines. This benefit extends to both retired and active service members traveling with American Airlines.

Here's how it works under the American Airlines baggage Allowance rules:

• 🔸 Traveling on Orders: Active military can check up to five bags at no cost.
• 🔸 Personal Travel: Active military can check up to three bags for free.
• 🔸 Military ID: A valid American Airlines baggage military I.D. is required to receive this benefit.

Read More: American Airlines Travel Credits: Your Ultimate Guide for 2024!

How do I track my baggage on American Airlines?

You can track your bags with American Airlines using their baggage tracker. This tool provides all passengers with well-informed & real-time updates on their luggage throughout their complete journey.

Here are these simple steps to track American Airlines baggage with ease under the American Airlines baggage policy:

• Go to the Tracking Page: Head to the official website to find the American Airlines baggage tracker section.
• Enter Your Information: Input your last name and confirmation code.
• Click 'Search': See your bag's status from check-in to arrival.

FlyO Tip: Your six-letter confirmation code can be found on your boarding pass and email. Use it for quick access to your flight details or baggage tracking.

What are the American liquid carry-on requirements?

American Airlines liquid requirements follow the T.S.A.'s 3-1-1 rule for all liquids in carry-on bags, with a few key guidelines:

• 📏 Container Size: Each liquid, aerosol, or gel must be kept in a container not larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml).
• 🔢 Quantity Limit: You can bring up to 10 containers, totaling no more than 1 liter.
• 💊 Medical Exemptions: Larger quantities of medically necessary liquids are allowed but may require additional screening.
• 🛍️ Duty-Free Purchases: Duty-free liquids are permitted if sealed in a tamper-evident bag.

🚨 Important Note: Under U.S. Federal Law, failing to declare hazardous items can result in severe penalties, including up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine (49 U.S.C. 5124).

Does American Airlines reimburse you for lost luggage?

Yes, American Airlines provides compensation for lost luggage. For domestic flights within the U.S., passengers may receive up to $3,800 per person for lost or delayed baggage. For international flights, compensation follows the Montreal Convention, with a limit of approximately $1,700 per passenger (1,288 Special Drawing Rights). For more information get in touch with American Airlines lost baggage contact number.

To be eligible for reimbursement, you must file a claim within specific timeframes—4 hours for damaged bags and 45 days for lost luggage on domestic flights. It's essential to keep receipts for any expenses related to baggage issues, as they may be needed for reimbursement.

Learn More: How to Cancel a Flight on American Airlines?

How much will American Airlines reimburse for damaged luggage?

American Airlines will reimburse for damaged luggage if a report is filed within 24 hours for all domestic flights or 7 days for international flights. Be sure to file a claim and receive an I.D. file for processing with the American Airlines economy baggage Allowance.

For any queries related to baggage policy contact us at +1-571-378-7016.

FlyO Tip: If items are missing from a checked bag, file a claim within 24 hours for U.S. flights and 7 days for international flights if your bag was delayed or damaged.

Travel Smart: American Airlines baggage allowance

Knowing the American Airlines baggage allowance ensures a smoother journey, with clear carry-on and checked luggage rules. You can bring one free carry-on bag and a personal item, but it's important to follow standard Size and weight restrictions to avoid extra fees. Be mindful of additional charges for overweight, oversized, extra bags, and special items. American Airlines also offers free baggage for military members, and their baggage tracker helps you stay updated on your luggage. By following these crucial guidelines, you can avoid sudden travel charges and make your travel experience more effortless & rejoicing.

Ready for your next travel adventure? Contact FlyOfinder at +1-571-378-7016 and confidently travel, equipped for every twist and turn.

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About the author

Elena Porter

Experiences life to the fullest through travel; Elena Porter has been a travel author at FlyOfinder since 2019. She has extensively explored the best of over ten countries, offering unique skills to guide readers in discovering the most remarkable places in each city. Ensuring to provide the best of each destination and make your travel unforgettable.