American Airlines Baggage Policy: Everything You Need to Know Before You Fly
Planning to travel with American Airlines? Whether you’re heading across the country or flying internationally, it’s essential to understand the airline’s baggage rules to avoid surprises at the airport. This comprehensive guide breaks down the latest American Airlines baggage policy — from carry-on and checked bag allowances to special items and fees.
🧳 Checked Bag Allowance by Cabin Class
American Airlines offers generous checked baggage allowances depending on your travel class. Here’s what you can expect:
| Cabin Class | Checked Bags Allowed |
|---|---|
| Flagship First | 2 bags |
| Domestic First | 2 bags |
| Business | 2 bags |
| Premium Economy | 2 bags |
| Main Cabin | 2 bags |
Note: Extra bags may require additional fees. Restrictions apply based on destination and season.
🎒 Carry-On Allowance
All passengers are allowed:
- 1 carry-on bag
- 1 personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack)
Carry-On Size Limits:
- Max dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
- Must fit in the overhead bin or under your seat
Personal Item Size Limits:
- Max dimensions: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
- Must fit under the seat in front of you
🚼 Items That Don’t Count Toward Your Carry-On Limit
American Airlines allows certain essential items onboard free of charge:
- 1 diaper bag per child
- Breast pump or small cooler for breast milk
- Child safety seats
- Strollers
- Medical and mobility devices (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.)
These items do not count against your carry-on or personal item limit.
🧳 Additional Items & Restrictions
Items You Can Bring (Fees May Apply):
- Sports equipment
- Assistive devices for passengers with disabilities
- Checked bags weighing 51–70 lbs (23.1–32 kg)
- Travel to/from Cuba: 1 new power generator in original packaging allowed
Prohibited or Restricted Items:
- Bags over 70 lbs / 32 kg
- Oversized bags larger than 62 inches / 158 cm (L + W + H)
- More than 2 checked bags (some seasonal exceptions)
- Boxes (plastic tubs, coolers, non-standard containers)
Box Restrictions by Destination:
- To/From Mexico: No boxes over 80 inches / 203 cm
- To Havana, Cuba: Up to 3 checked bags seasonally
💵 Checked Bag Fees
Here’s a breakdown of the most common baggage fees:
| Route | 1st Bag | 2nd Bag |
|---|---|---|
| U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands | $40 ($35 if paid online) | $45 |
| Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, Guyana | $35 | $45 |
All fees are per person, per direction, and non-refundable unless claimed within 45 days due to an error.
✈️ Gate-Checked (Valet) Bags for Regional Flights
On American Eagle regional flights (excluding Embraer ERJ-175 aircraft), overhead space is limited. Large carry-ons must be valet-checked at the gate for free and returned on the jetbridge after landing.
🎻 Special & Fragile Items
- Garment Bags: Only soft-sided types, up to 51 inches (130 cm total)
- Musical Instruments: Must fit in the overhead bin or under your seat
- Liquids: TSA rules apply — containers up to 100 ml in a 1-liter resealable bag
- Duty-Free Items: Allowed if sealed in a tamper-evident bag
🐾 Traveling with Pets
Pets are allowed in the cabin if they meet size and carrier requirements. Check the full American Airlines Pet Policy for details before you travel.
⚠️ TSA & Safety Restrictions
Some items are restricted or must be packed a certain way:
- Batteries
- E-cigarettes
- Sharp objects
- Flammable materials
- Large containers of liquid
Check the TSA guidelines for the latest safety rules before packing.
✈ Final Thoughts
American Airlines offers a fairly flexible baggage policy, but it’s important to know the rules and fees ahead of time to avoid delays and extra charges. Always double-check your destination’s specific rules, especially when flying internationally.
Whether you’re heading on vacation or a business trip, knowing what you can and cannot bring ensures a smooth airport experience.