Do You Get A Free Checked Bag With American Airlines?

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Are you planning a trip with American Airlines but unsure about their baggage policy? One of the most common questions travelers ask is whether they get a free checked bag with American Airlines. We’ve got good news for you! Keep reading to find out more about American Airlines’ baggage policy and what you can expect when flying with them.

American Airlines is one of the world’s largest airlines, operating flights to over 350 destinations worldwide. With their extensive route network, it’s no wonder that many travelers choose American Airlines for their travel needs. However, with so many airlines out there, it’s essential to know what you’re getting into, especially when it comes to baggage fees. In this article, we’ll explore American Airlines’ checked baggage policy to help make your travel planning easier.

Do You Get a Free Checked Bag With American Airlines?

Do You Get a Free Checked Bag With American Airlines?

American Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. If you are planning to travel with American Airlines, one question that may come to your mind is whether you get a free checked bag or not. In this article, we will explore the baggage policy of American Airlines and answer this common question.

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Overview of American Airlines Baggage Policy

When it comes to baggage, American Airlines has a clear policy that applies to all passengers. The airline allows you to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free on all flights. However, the size and weight of these items must meet the airline’s requirements.

For checked bags, American Airlines charges a fee for the first and second bags. The fee varies depending on your destination and the type of fare you have purchased. If you have purchased a Basic Economy fare, you will need to pay a fee for your first checked bag, while Main Cabin fares include one free checked bag.

First Checked Bag Policy

If you are traveling with American Airlines and have purchased a Main Cabin fare, you can check one bag for free. The bag must not exceed 62 inches in total dimensions (length + width + height) and must weigh no more than 50 pounds. If your bag exceeds these limits, you will need to pay an overweight or oversized fee.

If you have purchased a Basic Economy fare, you will need to pay a fee for your first checked bag. The fee varies depending on your destination and can be paid online or at the airport. If you do not pay for your first checked bag online, you will be charged a higher fee at the airport.

Second Checked Bag Policy

If you need to check a second bag with American Airlines, you will need to pay a fee regardless of your fare type. The fee varies depending on your destination and can be paid online or at the airport. Like the first checked bag, the second bag must not exceed 62 inches in total dimensions and must weigh no more than 50 pounds.

Benefits of Purchasing a Main Cabin or Above Fare

If you are a frequent traveler or need to check more than one bag, it may be beneficial to purchase a Main Cabin or above fare with American Airlines. These fares include one free checked bag and allow you to bring additional bags for a fee.

If you have purchased a Main Cabin Extra or Premium Economy fare, you can bring two free checked bags with you. This can save you money if you need to check more than one bag on your trip.

Comparing American Airlines Baggage Policy with Other Airlines

When it comes to baggage policy, each airline has its own rules and fees. It is important to compare the baggage policy of different airlines before booking your flight to avoid any surprises or unexpected fees.

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For example, Delta Air Lines allows you to bring one personal item, one carry-on bag, and one free checked bag on most flights. Southwest Airlines allows you to bring two free checked bags on all flights, while United Airlines charges a fee for the first and second checked bags.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines does not offer a free checked bag to all passengers. If you have purchased a Main Cabin fare, you can check one bag for free, while Basic Economy fares require you to pay a fee for your first checked bag. If you need to check more than one bag, it may be beneficial to purchase a Main Cabin or above fare with American Airlines. Be sure to compare the baggage policy of different airlines before booking your flight to avoid any surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about American Airlines’ baggage policy.

What is American Airlines’ baggage policy?

American Airlines allows one free carry-on bag and one personal item. Checked baggage fees vary based on your destination and fare class. Some fares, such as first class and select economy fares, may include one or more free checked bags.

If you need to check additional bags, you can purchase up to three additional bags online or at the airport. Oversized and overweight fees may apply.

How much does it cost to check a bag with American Airlines?

The cost to check a bag with American Airlines varies based on your destination and fare class. For domestic flights within the U.S., the first checked bag is typically $30 and the second checked bag is $40. For international flights, the first checked bag is often free, but additional bags may cost $100 or more.

It’s important to check American Airlines’ baggage policy before your trip to confirm the fees and restrictions that apply to your specific itinerary.

Do I get a free checked bag with American Airlines if I have status?

Yes, American Airlines offers free checked bags to customers with elite status in their AAdvantage program. The number of free bags you receive depends on your status level and fare class. For example, AAdvantage Gold members and above receive two free checked bags on domestic flights and up to three free checked bags on international flights.

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To qualify for elite status, you’ll need to earn a certain number of qualifying miles or segments on American Airlines flights each year.

Can I bring a carry-on bag and a personal item on American Airlines?

Yes, American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, while the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.

Examples of personal items include a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag. If you have a larger personal item, such as a backpack, it may be considered your carry-on bag and must fit in the overhead bin.

What are the size and weight restrictions for checked bags on American Airlines?

The size and weight restrictions for checked bags on American Airlines vary based on your destination and fare class. For most domestic flights within the U.S., checked bags must not exceed 62 inches in overall dimensions and 50 pounds in weight.

For international flights, the size and weight restrictions may be different. It’s important to check American Airlines’ baggage policy before your trip to confirm the restrictions that apply to your specific itinerary.

Do you get a free checked bag with American Airlines?


In conclusion, if you are wondering whether you get a free checked bag with American Airlines, the answer is not straightforward. It all depends on the type of ticket you purchased, your frequent flyer status, and if you are traveling internationally.

However, there are ways to avoid paying for checked baggage, such as traveling with just a carry-on or applying for an American Airlines credit card that offers free checked bags as a benefit.

Regardless of whether you get a free checked bag with American Airlines, it is important to review their baggage policy before your flight to avoid any surprises or additional fees at the airport. Happy travels!

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