When you book your next trip with American Airlines, know their baggage fees and policies so you don’t get hit with surprise charges and travel stress. If your trip is domestic or international, this American Airlines Baggage Fees and Policy Guide will make you a more informed packer and a more confident traveller.
Carry-On Baggage Policy
American Airlines lets you bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free.
- Maximum size for a carry-on with dimensions (22 x 14 x 9 inches) (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels.
- Personal item size restriction: should fit under the seat in front of you (about 18 x 14 x 8 inches).
Common personal items are handbags, laptop bags, or small backpacks. Be sure your carry-on fits in the overhead bin, or you could be forced to check it — and pay a baggage fee.
Checked Baggage Fees
Checked baggage fees vary by route, ticket type, and loyalty status. Following are the normal American Airlines checked bag charges for domestic flights (from 2025):
- First checked bag: $35(increase if prepaid online) or $40 (at the airport)
- Second checked bag: $45
- Third bag check in: $150
- Fourth and additional bags are $200 each.
On international routes, you may have one or two checked bags included, depending on your destination and your fare type. Always check your ticket detail before travelling.
Baggage Weight and Size Limits
- Maximum weight for a regular checked bag: 50 lbs/23 kg.
- Maximum dimensions: 62 linear inches (158 cm).
If your luggage is over these limits, additional fees will apply:
- Overweight (51–70 lbs): US$100 per bag.
- Overweight (71–100 lbs): $200 per bag.
- Oversize (larger than 62 inches): $200 per bag.
On most flights, American Airlines will not accept bags that measure more than 126 linear inches or weigh more than 100 lbs.
Exceptions and Free Baggage Allowances
Certain travelers are eligible for free checked bags, including:
- AAdvantage elite members (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum)
- One world alliance members (illustrative, 1world not within carrier can participate)
- First and Business Class travelers
- Active Military Members of the United States
Depending on your fare or status, you may receive anywhere from two to five bags for free.
Special Items and Sports Equipment
American Airlines lets you check the following special items:
- Sports equipment: golf clubs, bikes, surfboards
- Musical instruments
- Baby strollers or car seats
Most special item are included in your regular baggage allowance. Size and weight surcharges may be applicable.
Tips to Save on Baggage Fees
- Pay in advance online: When you pay in advance before coming to the airport, you can save $5 to $10 per bag.
- Be a smart packer: Opt for lightweight suitcases and leave the nonessentials at home.
- Sign up for AAdvantage or use a co-branded credit card: Several American Airlines credit cards provide one complimentary checked bag for you and your travel companions.
- Review baggage policy for your class of ticket: Basic Economy tickets tend to have more restrictions.
Conclusion
Knowing the American Airlines Baggage Fees Policies Guide will make your trip easier and you will worry less. What to pack, how much to pay and how to avoid extra charges – know all these and you could travel smarter.
More travel tips, airline updates and baggage information at MyBaggageInfo.com — your source for the latest airline policies and smart travel advice.
