Tips To Avoid Fees For Baggage On American Airlines | AA Baggage policy

American Airlines has a structured baggage policy that varies based on your ticket type, destination, and loyalty status. Understanding these policies before you travel can help you avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smoother journey.

American Airlines Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Most American Airlines passengers are permitted to bring:

• One carry-on bag: Must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
• One personal item: Such as a purse, laptop bag, or backpack that fits under the seat in front (must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches)

Important exceptions:

• Basic Economy tickets on transatlantic flights include a carry-on bag
• Basic Economy tickets on other routes only allow a personal item (no overhead bin carry-on)

Checked Baggage Allowance Fees for American Airline Domestic Flights

Standard checked bag fees for flights within the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands:

• First checked bag: $30
• Second checked bag: $40
• Third and each additional bag: $150 each

Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg) and 62 linear inches (length + width + height) to avoid overweight and oversized charges.

International Checked AA Baggage Fees

Fees vary by destination:

• To/from Mexico and Caribbean: $30 for first bag, $40 for second bag
• To/from Canada: $30 for first bag, $40 for second bag
• To/from Europe, China, Japan, South Korea, and South America: First bag free on most fares, $100 for second bag
• To/from Australia and New Zealand: First and second bags free on most fares

Always check American Airlines’ website for your specific route as policies can differ by destination. Also read thia amazing helping guide for American Airlines senior discount on flights.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees

Additional fees apply for bags that exceed standard weight and size limitations:

• Overweight bags (51-70 lbs): $100-$200 depending on route
• Overweight bags (71-100 lbs): $200-$450 depending on route
• Oversized bags (63-126 linear inches): $200-$450 depending on route

Items over 100 lbs or 126 linear inches generally cannot be checked.

Fee Waivers and Exceptions

Several groups qualify for baggage fee waivers:

• AAdvantage Elite status members (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum)
• First and Business Class passengers
• Active U.S. military personnel on orders
• AAdvantage credit card holders (with eligible cards)
• Oneworld alliance elite members

The specific number of free bags depends on your status level or ticket type.

Specialty Items

American Airlines has specific policies for certain items:

• Sports equipment: Most sporting equipment counts as a regular checked bag and is subject to standard fees
• Musical instruments: Small instruments can count as a carry-on; larger instruments may require an additional seat
• Strollers and car seats: These can be checked for free at the ticket counter or gate
• Medical devices: Most are allowed in addition to your standard carry-on allowance

Tips to Save on American Airlines Baggage Fees

1. Join the AAdvantage frequent flyer program and work toward elite status
2. Consider an American Airlines co-branded credit card that offers baggage benefits
3. Pay for bags online during check-in (saves $5 per bag compared to airport payment)
4. Pack efficiently to minimize the number of bags needed
5. Pre-pay for bags when booking your flight

Always check American Airlines website for the most current American Airlines baggage policy before your flight, as fees and allowances may change. Additionally, remember that baggage policies can differ when flying on American Airlines’ partner airlines, even when booked through American.