American Airlines Baggage Policy

Have you booked a flight with American Airlines and started packing the bags? Before zipping up the suitcase, a question comes to your mind: “ American Airlines Baggage Policy? How many bags can you carry? What is the size limit, etc? Well, in 2025, AA has made some changes. Checked bag fees are higher, and the airline is stricter about the size and weight of both carry-on and checked luggage. These updates affect passengers on domestic as well as international flights.

This guide explains everything about the baggage policy, from carry-on limits and checked bag fees to overweight charges. So, to know more about, continue to further, and get all the desired details.

American Airlines Baggage Policy: Rules and Guidelines

AA has set the specific rules for both carry on and checked bags to make travel more organized. Recently, the airline updated the policy, including fee and size limits. Below are the guidelines that passengers should know:

American Airlines Carry-Ons:

• Passengers can bring 1 carry-on and one personal item (such as laptop bag, small backpack or a purse).
• The size limit should not increase to 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
• Personal item (18 x 14 x 8) must fit under the seat in front of you.

American Airlines Checked Baggage:

The Standard allowance is up to 2 checked bags (varies by class and route). The maximum number of checked bags is 10, and 5 on flights to the Caribbean, Mexico, and South America. However, the Size 62 linear inches (158 cm) per bag is allowed. In economy, passengers can carry 23 kgs, while in business and first class, 32 kg is permitted.

Note: Bags that are over 100 lbs are not accepted for domestic or international routes.

Restricted Item on American Airlines

There is a list of prohibited items that passengers go through before packing the luggage. These includes liquids, explosives, or sharp objects, and overoverweight baggage. Additionally, some items may not be allowed in carry-on, like diaper bags or mobility devices.

How Many Bags Can I Carry On American Airlines?

Every passenger flying with AA is allowed to bring one carry-on and one personal item on board. The carry-on must fit in the overhead bin. The personal item has to fit under the seat in front and should not be larger than (45 x 35 x 20 cm). These two are included in the ticket for free, and passengers don’t require to pay extra. However, if the bag is too large, it may need to be checked, and standard baggage fees will apply.

Can I Bring Sports Equipment or Special Items on AA Flights?

Yes, American Airlines allows passengers can bring sports equipment and special items, but the size and weight limits. Generally, sports equipment like skis, golf bags, and bicycles is accepted as checked baggage, but may be subject to additional charges based on size and weight. Some items, like musical instruments, may also be allowed in the cabin if they meet size requirements.

Does American Airlines Offers Free Checked Bags?

American Airlines does not give complimentary checked bags to all passengers. Most travelers in Main Cabin and basic economy have to pay for the checked luggage. However, there are some exceptions. Passengers in Business, First Class or members of the AAdvantage frequent flyer program with elite status get free checked bags included in the ticket. On many international flights, at least one checked bag is included at no extra cost.

How Can I Add the Extra Bags on American Airlines?

To add the extra luggage passengers can pay the “American Airlines baggage fee” for upto 3 bags through online or via app during the check in. But if its more tha three, add them at the airport at the time of check in.

• Go to American Airlines website.
• Start your check in process by entering the required details.
• Select the number of bags and pay the applicable fee.
• Get the confirmation on your email.

Note: If check in at the airport, Go to the check-in counter or a self-service kiosk and follow the instructions to add and pay for your bags.

What Happens if My Bags Get Delayed and Damaged on AA?

If the bag is delayed, American Airlines will track it and deliver it to the passengers once found. For domestic flights, the airline offers a refund for the baggage if not delivered within 12 hours. However, if the bag is damaged, report it at the airport under 24 hours in the United states, and 7 days for international flights. After that, the airline may replace, repare, or compensate for the damage.

Steps to File a Report at the Airport:

• Visit the airport's claim baggage counter.
• Or look around for the QR baggage claim sign.
• Scan the QR ans visit the website using the mobile.
• Sign in, input last name, and the confirmation code, to start the process.

Important: This service is only available for trips ending in Puerto Rico, the U.S., and the Virgin Islands.

How To Track the Luggage on American Airlines?

Do you want to get updated about the bags, wether it delays or not? Use AA “Track your bags” option. This only takes few minutes and you wil get the bags update. Here are the steps to take:

• Visit the American Airlines website.
• Find the “Track Your Bags” option on the home page.
• Tap and enter last name and the confirmation code.
• After that, tap to search the flight details.
• With the booking details check the current bag status, and know when you will get the bags.

When Can I Get Refunds for Mishandled Bags On American Airlines?

American Airlines provides a refund for the checked bags if the luggage is delayed and not delivered on time. For flights within the U.S., get a refund if th bag is not returned within 12 hours of arrival. On international routes the time limit is 15 hours for shorter trips and 30 hours for long-haul flights. Once the bag is reported as delayed and meets these limits, the airline will process the refund.

How Much Do American Airlines Checked Bags Cost?

AA charges a cost for checked bags based on the destination and whether the passenger pays online. For travel within or between the U.S., Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico the first bag costs $40 ($35 if paid online), and the second checked bag costs $45. For travel to and from Canada, Mexico, or Central America, the 1st bag is $35, and the 2nd is $45.