How Much Is American Airlines Baggage Fee?

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For travelers planning a trip with American Airlines, one of the most important things to consider is how much they will be charged for baggage fees. American Airlines offers different baggage allowances and fees depending on factors such as flight destination, ticket class, and loyalty status. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about American Airlines baggage fees, so you can plan your trip with confidence and avoid any surprises at the airport.

How Much is American Airlines Baggage Fee?

How Much is American Airlines Baggage Fee?

American Airlines is one of the major airlines in the United States, serving millions of passengers every year. One of the most important aspects of air travel is baggage allowance and fees. Every airline has its own baggage fee policies, and American Airlines is no exception. In this article, we will discuss American Airlines baggage fee in detail and help you understand how much you will need to pay for your bags.

Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on baggage is the type of luggage that passengers can bring with them on the plane. American Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag on board for free. The personal item must fit under the seat, while the carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin. The maximum size for the carry-on bag is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels.

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If you need to bring an additional carry-on bag, you will need to pay a fee. The fee for an additional carry-on bag depends on the route and can range from $35 to $150. However, American Airlines allows passengers to bring a diaper bag, breast pump, and assistive devices for free.

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage is the type of luggage that passengers need to check in at the airport counter. American Airlines allows passengers to check up to 10 bags per person, with a weight limit of 50 pounds per bag and a maximum size of 62 inches in total dimensions.

The fee for checked baggage also depends on the route and the number of bags. For domestic flights, the first checked bag will cost $30, while the second checked bag will cost $40. For international flights, the first checked bag will cost $0 to $150, depending on the destination, while the second checked bag will cost $100 to $200.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage

If your luggage exceeds the weight or size limit, you will need to pay an additional fee. For overweight bags, the fee is $100 for bags weighing between 51 to 70 pounds and $200 for bags weighing between 71 to 100 pounds. For oversized bags, the fee is $200 for bags between 63 to 115 inches in total dimensions.

Special Items

If you need to bring special items, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, or pets, you will need to pay additional fees. The fee for sports equipment varies depending on the item, while the fee for musical instruments is $150. The fee for pets is $125 per kennel, and there are specific rules and regulations that need to be followed.

Benefits of American Airlines Baggage Fee

Despite the fees, American Airlines baggage policy has some benefits. Passengers can save money by booking their baggage online and paying in advance. American Airlines also offers waived fees for active U.S. military personnel and their dependents, as well as some credit card holders.

American Airlines Baggage Fee vs. Competitors

Compared to its competitors, American Airlines baggage fee is on par with other major airlines such as Delta and United. However, low-cost carriers such as Spirit and Frontier charge much higher fees for baggage, and passengers need to pay for carry-on bags as well.

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In conclusion, American Airlines baggage fee policy is straightforward and easy to understand. Passengers need to be aware of the fees and restrictions before they pack their bags, to avoid any surprises at the airport. By planning ahead and booking online, passengers can save money and enjoy a hassle-free travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines baggage fee for carry-on bags?

American Airlines allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board for free. However, if you want to bring a second carry-on bag, you will have to pay a fee. The cost of the second carry-on bag depends on your destination and the time of purchase.

For domestic flights within the United States, the fee for the second carry-on bag ranges from $35 to $150, depending on the route and the time of purchase. For international flights, the fee for the second carry-on bag ranges from $60 to $200, depending on the destination and the time of purchase.

What is American Airlines baggage fee for checked bags?

The cost of checking a bag on American Airlines varies depending on your destination, the type of fare you purchased, and your frequent flyer status. For domestic flights within the United States, the first checked bag costs $30, the second checked bag costs $40, and any additional bags cost $150 each. For international flights, the fees are typically higher, with the first checked bag costing $60-$100 and the second checked bag costing $100-$200.

There are some exceptions to these fees, such as for active U.S. military personnel and certain elite status members of American Airlines’ frequent flyer program. Additionally, if you purchase your baggage allowance in advance online, you may be able to save money on checked bag fees.

What is the weight limit for American Airlines checked bags?

For most routes, the weight limit for a checked bag on American Airlines is 50 pounds (23 kilograms). However, for certain destinations such as Brazil, China, and Europe, the weight limit may be lower. If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you will have to pay an overweight baggage fee, which ranges from $100 to $450 depending on the route and the weight of the bag.

It’s important to note that some items, such as sports equipment and musical instruments, may be subject to additional restrictions and fees. Be sure to check American Airlines’ website or contact their customer service department for more information.

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What is American Airlines baggage policy for infants?

Passengers traveling with infants on American Airlines are allowed to bring a diaper bag, a stroller, and a car seat for free in addition to their own carry-on bag and personal item. They may also check one car seat and one stroller for free in addition to their checked baggage allowance.

If the infant does not have a seat reserved and is traveling on the lap of an adult, they are not entitled to a carry-on or checked baggage allowance, but the adult may still bring a diaper bag and a stroller for free.

What happens if my bag is lost or damaged on American Airlines?

If your bag is lost or damaged on American Airlines, you should report it to the baggage service office at the airport as soon as possible. American Airlines will do its best to locate your bag and return it to you, but if it is lost permanently, you may be eligible for compensation.

If your bag is damaged, you should also report it to the baggage service office and provide documentation of the damage, such as photos or receipts. American Airlines may offer to repair or replace the bag, or may offer you a baggage fee refund or travel voucher as compensation.

American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, calculating baggage fees for your American Airlines flight is an important step in planning your trip. Knowing the exact fees and restrictions for your luggage can save you time and money at the airport.

While baggage fees can vary depending on the route and fare class, American Airlines allows passengers to check up to 10 bags per flight. It’s important to note that fees can increase if your luggage exceeds the weight or size limits set by the airline.

To avoid any surprises at the airport, be sure to check American Airlines’ website or contact customer service to determine your baggage fees and restrictions. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

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