Does American Airlines Offer Free Baggage?

admin
Chief Editor of - Book USA Airlines

Are you planning on traveling with American Airlines and wondering whether or not they offer free baggage? Look no further! American Airlines offers different baggage policies, depending on the type of ticket you purchase and your destination.

For domestic flights within the United States, American Airlines offers a carry-on bag and a personal item for free. However, checked baggage is not included in the ticket price. Keep reading to learn more about American Airlines’ baggage policies and how to avoid extra fees.

Does American Airlines Offer Free Baggage?

Does American Airlines Offer Free Baggage?

As a frequent traveler, you may be wondering whether American Airlines offers free baggage or not. Well, the answer is “it depends.” American Airlines offers different baggage policies depending on the type of ticket you purchase, your destination, and your frequent flyer status. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of American Airlines baggage policies and help you figure out whether you’ll need to pay for your luggage on your next flight.

Basic Economy Ticket

If you’ve purchased a Basic Economy ticket on American Airlines, you’ll need to pay for your checked baggage. The airline’s baggage allowance for Basic Economy passengers is $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second bag. However, keep in mind that the weight and size restrictions apply. You can check up to 10 bags if you need to, but you’ll need to pay for each one.

If you’re traveling with carry-on bags, you’re allowed one personal item and one carry-on bag. Your carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, and your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Any additional carry-on bags will need to be checked, and you’ll need to pay the applicable baggage fees.

Read More:  Is American Airlines Business Class The Same As First Class?

Main Cabin Ticket

If you’ve purchased a Main Cabin ticket on American Airlines, you’ll be allowed one personal item and one carry-on bag, just like Basic Economy passengers. However, you won’t need to pay any additional fees for checked baggage. The airline’s baggage allowance for Main Cabin passengers is $0 for the first bag and $40 for the second bag. Again, make sure your checked bags meet the weight and size restrictions.

Premium Economy Ticket

If you’ve purchased a Premium Economy ticket on American Airlines, you’ll be allowed two free checked bags. The airline’s baggage allowance for Premium Economy passengers is $0 for the first and second bags. However, your bags still need to meet the weight and size restrictions. You’re also allowed one personal item and one carry-on bag.

Business Class Ticket

If you’ve purchased a Business Class ticket on American Airlines, you’ll be allowed two free checked bags. The airline’s baggage allowance for Business Class passengers is $0 for the first and second bags. Your bags again need to meet the weight and size restrictions. You’re also allowed one personal item and two carry-on bags.

First Class Ticket

If you’ve purchased a First Class ticket on American Airlines, you’ll be allowed three free checked bags. The airline’s baggage allowance for First Class passengers is $0 for the first, second, and third bags. Your bags need to meet the weight and size restrictions. You’re also allowed one personal item and two carry-on bags.

Elite Status Members

If you’re an American Airlines Elite Status member, you’ll be allowed additional free checked bags depending on your status level. AAdvantage Gold members are allowed one additional bag, AAdvantage Platinum members are allowed two additional bags, and AAdvantage Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum members are allowed three additional bags.

Bags for Active Military Personnel

American Airlines offers special baggage allowances for active military personnel traveling on orders. If you’re an active military member traveling on official orders, you’ll be allowed up to five free checked bags. Your bags need to meet the weight and size restrictions.

Benefits of American Airlines Baggage Policies

American Airlines baggage policies can be confusing, but they offer several benefits. First, you have the option to pay for your checked bags ahead of time to avoid any surprise fees at the airport. Second, if you’re an American Airlines Elite Status member or traveling in First Class, you’ll receive additional free checked bags, which can save you money on baggage fees. Finally, American Airlines offers special baggage allowances for active military personnel, which is a great way to show support for our service members.

Read More:  What Terminal Is American Airlines?

American Airlines Baggage Policies Vs. Other Airlines

Compared to other airlines, American Airlines’ baggage policies are fairly standard. Most airlines offer free checked bags for premium ticket holders, and paid baggage allowances for economy ticket holders. However, American Airlines’ baggage fees are slightly higher than some other airlines, such as Delta and United. It’s always a good idea to compare baggage policies before booking your flight to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines offers different baggage policies depending on your ticket type, destination, and frequent flyer status. If you’re traveling on a Basic Economy ticket, you’ll need to pay for your checked bags. However, if you’re traveling on a Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business Class, or First Class ticket, you’ll receive free checked bags. American Airlines’ baggage policies are fairly standard compared to other airlines, but it’s still important to compare policies before booking your flight to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines’ baggage policy?

American Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag for free on all flights. Checked baggage fees vary depending on the fare type, destination, and loyalty status of the passenger. For domestic flights, the first checked bag costs $30, while the second checked bag costs $40. For international flights, the fees vary and can be checked on the American Airlines website.

Passengers can save money on checked baggage fees by booking a higher fare class, becoming a loyalty member, or using an American Airlines credit card. Additionally, military personnel and their dependents, as well as government officials, are eligible for waived baggage fees.

What is the size and weight limit for American Airlines baggage?

The size limit for carry-on bags on American Airlines flights is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 centimeters, including handles and wheels. The weight limit for carry-on bags is 40 pounds or 18 kilograms.

The size and weight limit for checked baggage on American Airlines flights varies depending on the fare type and destination. Generally, the size limit for checked baggage is 62 linear inches or 158 centimeters (length + width + height), while the weight limit is 50 pounds or 23 kilograms. Oversized and overweight baggage fees may apply.

Can I bring a pet on an American Airlines flight?

Yes, American Airlines allows passengers to bring small pets in the cabin on domestic flights for a fee. The pet must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of the passenger. The pet and carrier together must weigh no more than 20 pounds. Passengers must also follow specific guidelines for the pet’s health and safety.

Read More:  Where Does American Airlines Fly?

For international flights, pets are only allowed in the cabin on flights to and from Canada, Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and the Caribbean. Pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights to and from Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, or Africa.

Are there any special services for passengers with disabilities?

Yes, American Airlines offers special services for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance, priority boarding, and special seating accommodations. Passengers should notify American Airlines of any special needs at least 48 hours before the flight.

Additionally, American Airlines offers a Special Assistance Coordinators program, which provides personalized assistance to passengers with disabilities throughout their travel experience. The program includes assistance with navigating the airport, boarding and deplaning, and connecting flights.

Can I change or cancel my American Airlines flight?

Yes, American Airlines allows passengers to change or cancel their flight for a fee, depending on the fare type and destination. Passengers can make changes or cancellations online, over the phone, or at the airport.

Passengers with a flexible fare type, such as Basic Economy or Main Cabin, may be able to make changes or cancellations without a fee. Passengers who purchased tickets with American Airlines Vacations may also be able to make changes or cancellations without a fee. However, fees may apply for other fare types.

American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, American Airlines offers free baggage for certain passengers and under specific conditions. If you are a first-class or business-class passenger, you are entitled to two free checked bags. For Economy class passengers, the first bag is free if it meets certain weight and size requirements. Additionally, members of American Airlines’ loyalty program, AAdvantage, can enjoy free baggage allowances depending on their membership level.

It is important to note that American Airlines charges fees for additional or oversized baggage, so it is always a good idea to check their website or contact customer service before your flight. By doing so, you can avoid any surprises at the airport and ensure that you have a stress-free travel experience.

Overall, American Airlines strives to provide a comfortable and affordable travel experience for their passengers. Offering free baggage allowances to certain passengers is just one way they achieve this goal. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, knowing the baggage policy can help you plan accordingly and make the most out of your trip.

About The Author

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top