American Airlines Baggage Policy +1-866-666-0215

When you fly with American Airlines (AA), understanding the American Airlines Baggage Policy can save you time, money, and stress at the airport. Whether you’re traveling on a domestic flight within the U.S. or an international trip, AA offers specific rules for carry-on bags, checked luggage, excess baggage, special items, and sports equipment.

1. American Airlines Carry-On Baggage Allowance

American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger at no extra charge on most routes.

Carry-On Bag
Size Limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels.

Weight Limit: No set weight for most flights, but check for international exceptions.

Must fit in the overhead bin.

Personal Item
Size Limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).

Must fit under the seat in front of you.

Examples: laptop bag, purse, small backpack, or briefcase.

2. American Airlines Checked Baggage Policy

Checked baggage rules vary by destination, ticket type, and cabin class.

Domestic & Short-Haul International Flights
Basic Economy & Main Cabin: No free checked bags; first checked bag starts from $35.

Business & First Class: 2 free checked bags.

Long-Haul International Flights
Economy: 1–2 free checked bags depending on route.

Premium Economy: 2 free checked bags.

Business Class: 2 free checked bags.

First Class: 3 free checked bags.

3. Size and Weight Limits for Checked Bags

Max Weight:

Economy & Premium Economy: 50 lbs (23 kg)

Business & First Class: 70 lbs (32 kg)

Max Size: 62 linear inches (158 cm) (length + width + height).

4. Excess, Overweight, and Oversize Baggage Fees

Overweight 51–70 lbs: $100–$200 per bag.

Overweight 71–100 lbs: $450 per bag.

Oversized 63–126 inches: $150–$200 per bag.

Bags over 100 lbs or 126 inches are not accepted.

5. Special Items and Sports Equipment

American Airlines accepts most sports gear and special items, but fees may apply.

Sports Equipment: Surfboards, golf clubs, skis, bicycles accepted if packed properly.

Musical Instruments: May be carried on if they fit in overhead bins; otherwise checked or a seat must be purchased.

Baby Gear: One stroller and one car seat can be checked free of charge.

Medical Devices: Wheelchairs and mobility aids carried at no cost.

6. Military Baggage Policy

On official orders: Up to 5 free checked bags (100 lbs each).

For personal travel: Up to 3 free checked bags (50 lbs each in economy).

7. American Airlines Baggage Benefits for Frequent Flyers

Elite members of AAdvantage and Oneworld Alliance enjoy free checked bags:

AAdvantage Gold: 1 free checked bag.

Platinum & Platinum Pro: 2 free checked bags.

Executive Platinum: 3 free checked bags.

8. Tips to Save on American Airlines Baggage Fees

Prepay online – Cheaper and faster than paying at the airport.

Use an AA credit card – Many offer the first checked bag free.

Travel light – Stick to carry-on when possible.

Distribute weight – Avoid overweight charges by spreading items across bags.
Conclusion
The American Airlines baggage policy is easy to understand but changes depending on your destination, ticket type, and frequent flyer status. Domestic economy passengers should expect to pay for checked bags unless they have elite status or a qualifying credit card.

By weighing your bags at home, checking your route’s baggage rules, and prepaying online, you can save money and enjoy a smoother journey with American Airlines.