How Many Free Checked Bags On American Airlines?

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Flying can be a stressful experience, but knowing the baggage allowance beforehand can make things a lot smoother. If you’re planning on traveling with American Airlines, you may be wondering how many free checked bags you’re allowed to bring with you.

Fortunately, American Airlines does offer a free checked baggage allowance for most of its passengers. However, the number of bags you’re allowed to check for free can vary depending on a few factors. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at American Airlines’ baggage policy and help you figure out how many free checked bags you’re entitled to.

How Many Free Checked Bags on American Airlines?

How Many Free Checked Bags on American Airlines?

American Airlines is one of the world’s largest airlines, serving millions of passengers each year. If you’re planning on flying with American Airlines, you may be wondering how many free checked bags you’re allowed to bring with you. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at American Airlines’ baggage policy and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

Basic Economy

If you’re traveling on a Basic Economy fare with American Airlines, you’re allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board with you. However, you’ll have to pay extra fees if you want to check any bags. American Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag on all domestic flights. On international flights, the fees vary depending on your destination.

If you’re traveling with a military ID, you may be eligible for free checked bags. Active duty military personnel and their dependents are allowed up to five free checked bags, while veterans and their families can check up to three bags for free.

Main Cabin

If you’re traveling on a Main Cabin fare with American Airlines, you’re allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board with you. You’re also allowed to check one bag for free. The maximum weight for each checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kg), and the maximum size is 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions.

If you need to check additional bags, you’ll have to pay extra fees. American Airlines charges $40 for the first checked bag, $100 for the second checked bag, and $200 for the third checked bag on all domestic flights. On international flights, the fees vary depending on your destination.

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Premium Economy

If you’re traveling on a Premium Economy fare with American Airlines, you’re allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board with you. You’re also allowed to check two bags for free. The maximum weight for each checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kg), and the maximum size is 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions.

If you need to check additional bags, you’ll have to pay extra fees. American Airlines charges $40 for the first checked bag, $100 for the second checked bag, and $200 for the third checked bag on all domestic flights. On international flights, the fees vary depending on your destination.

Business Class

If you’re traveling on a Business Class fare with American Airlines, you’re allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board with you. You’re also allowed to check two bags for free. The maximum weight for each checked bag is 70 pounds (32 kg), and the maximum size is 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions.

If you need to check additional bags, you’ll have to pay extra fees. American Airlines charges $40 for the first checked bag, $100 for the second checked bag, and $200 for the third checked bag on all domestic flights. On international flights, the fees vary depending on your destination.

First Class

If you’re traveling on a First Class fare with American Airlines, you’re allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board with you. You’re also allowed to check three bags for free. The maximum weight for each checked bag is 70 pounds (32 kg), and the maximum size is 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions.

If you need to check additional bags, you’ll have to pay extra fees. American Airlines charges $40 for the first checked bag, $100 for the second checked bag, and $200 for the third checked bag on all domestic flights. On international flights, the fees vary depending on your destination.

Bags That Exceed the Weight and Size Limits

If your checked bags exceed the weight and size limits, you’ll have to pay additional fees. For bags that weigh between 51-70 pounds (23-32 kg), you’ll have to pay an additional $100 per bag. For bags that exceed 70 pounds (32 kg), you’ll have to pay an additional $200 per bag. For bags that exceed 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions, you’ll have to pay an additional $200 per bag.

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Bags That Exceed the Total Baggage Allowance

If you need to check more bags than your ticket allows, you’ll have to pay extra fees. American Airlines charges $150 for each additional bag on all domestic flights. On international flights, the fees vary depending on your destination.

Benefits of Checking Bags

While it may be tempting to pack light and avoid the additional fees for checked bags, there are benefits to checking bags. When you check your bags, you’ll have more room to move around the cabin and can enjoy a more comfortable flight. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about lugging heavy bags through the airport or struggling to fit them in the overhead compartments.

Checked Bags vs. Carry-On Bags

If you’re trying to decide whether to check your bags or bring them on board as carry-on, there are a few things to consider. While carry-on bags are more convenient and can save you money on baggage fees, they can also be a hassle to lug around the airport and may not fit in the overhead compartments if the flight is full. Checked bags, on the other hand, can provide more comfort during the flight but may come with additional fees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines allows different baggage allowances depending on your fare class. If you’re traveling on a Basic Economy fare, you’ll have to pay extra fees for checked bags, while Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class fares come with varying amounts of free checked bags. Understanding the baggage policy and fees can help you prepare for your trip and avoid any surprises at the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines baggage policy?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Checked baggage fees apply for additional bags.

How many free checked bags am I allowed on American Airlines?

The number of free checked bags allowed on American Airlines depends on your ticket type and destination. For domestic flights and flights to/from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, the first checked bag is $30 and the second checked bag is $40. For flights to/from South America, the first and second checked bags are free.

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What is the maximum weight and size allowed for checked bags on American Airlines?

The maximum weight allowed for checked bags on American Airlines is 50 pounds (23 kg) and the maximum size is 62 inches (158 cm) (length + width + height). Oversized and overweight baggage fees apply for bags that exceed these limits.

How can I pay for checked baggage on American Airlines?

You can pay for checked baggage on American Airlines during online check-in, at self-service kiosks, or at the airport ticket counter. You can also prepay for baggage online up to 4 hours before your flight.

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

If your checked bag is lost or damaged on American Airlines, you should report it to the baggage service office before leaving the airport. American Airlines will make every effort to locate and return your bag to you. If your bag is lost, American Airlines will reimburse you for the value of the bag and its contents up to a maximum of $3,500 per ticketed passenger.

American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, American Airlines offers its passengers one of the most generous baggage policies in the industry. The number of free checked bags allowed depends on the passenger’s destination, fare class, and frequent flyer status. However, in most cases, passengers are allowed at least one free checked bag, with some passengers being allowed up to three.

It is important to note that if you are traveling with oversized or overweight luggage, you may be subject to additional fees. To avoid any surprises at the airport, it is recommended that you review American Airlines’ baggage policy before your flight.

Overall, American Airlines’ baggage policy provides passengers with flexibility and convenience. With the ability to check at least one free bag, travelers can pack everything they need for their trip without having to worry about additional fees. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your next flight with American Airlines.

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