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American Baggage Fees & Allowance

AI Travel Summary & Overview

American Baggage Fees & Allowance — Summary

American carry-on size limits, checked bag fees, weight limits, overweight and oversize charges, and who gets bags free. Updated policy summary with booking help.

Key Travel Facts & Insights

  • Personal item: One personal item that fits under the seat, on every fare..
  • Carry-on bag: One full-size carry-on plus one personal item on every fare including Basic Economy.
  • First checked bag: $40 at the airport, $35 if pre-paid online, on standard domestic tickets..
  • Second checked bag: $45 on standard domestic tickets..
AirlineAmerican Airlines
IATA CodeAA
TopicBaggage Allowance & Fees
Last reviewed2026-07-31

Personal item

One personal item that fits under the seat, on every fare.

Carry-on bag

One full-size carry-on plus one personal item on every fare including Basic Economy. American kept the cabin bag in Basic Economy after briefly removing it. Maximum dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches including wheels and handles.

First checked bag

$40 at the airport, $35 if pre-paid online, on standard domestic tickets.

Second checked bag

$45 on standard domestic tickets.

Weight limits

50 lbs (23 kg) in Main Cabin; 70 lbs (32 kg) in Premium Economy, Business and First.

Overweight bag charges

Charges apply from 51 lbs, escalating at 71 lbs. Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted.

Oversize bag charges

Over 62 linear inches attracts an oversize charge; over 126 linear inches is refused.

Who gets bags free

First bag free for AAdvantage elite members, Citi/Barclays AAdvantage cardholders and up to four companions on the reservation, active-duty US military, and in premium cabins.

Sports and special equipment

Golf, ski and snowboard equipment travels as a standard checked bag. Bicycles under 50 lbs and within 126 linear inches count as one standard bag.

American baggage allowance & fees — common questions

What is the American carry-on size limit?

22 x 14 x 9 inches including wheels and handles including wheels and handles. One full-size carry-on plus one personal item on every fare including Basic Economy. American kept the cabin bag in Basic Economy after briefly removing it.

How much does a checked bag cost on American?

$40 at the airport, $35 if pre-paid online, on standard domestic tickets. A second bag: $45 on standard domestic tickets.

What is the American checked baggage weight limit?

50 lbs (23 kg) in Main Cabin; 70 lbs (32 kg) in Premium Economy, Business and First. Charges apply from 51 lbs, escalating at 71 lbs. Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted.

Can I get a free checked bag on American?

First bag free for AAdvantage elite members, Citi/Barclays AAdvantage cardholders and up to four companions on the reservation, active-duty US military, and in premium cabins.

More American help

All American policies and guides

Booking American? Talk to a US travel consultant.

Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.