How Much Is An Extra Bag On American Airlines?

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Planning for a trip can be exciting, but it can also be daunting. With airlines charging for every additional service, it’s important to know the costs that come with each. One common concern for travelers is how much an extra bag would cost on American Airlines. Let’s dive in and explore the fees and regulations surrounding this topic.

American Airlines is one of the major airlines in the United States and has a comprehensive baggage policy. Understanding their fees and restrictions will help you avoid any surprises and make the most of your travel experience. So, whether you’re packing light or bringing everything but the kitchen sink, let’s take a closer look at the cost of an extra bag on American Airlines.

How Much is an Extra Bag on American Airlines?

How Much is an Extra Bag on American Airlines?

Are you planning to fly with American Airlines and wondering how much an extra bag would cost you? American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and they have a strict baggage policy that all passengers must adhere to. In this article, we will discuss the cost of an extra bag on American Airlines and everything you need to know about their baggage policy.

Carry-On Baggage

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board. The carry-on bag should not exceed the dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. The personal item should be smaller than the carry-on bag and fit under the seat in front of you. If you want to bring an additional carry-on bag, you will have to pay an extra fee, which varies depending on your destination and the time of booking.

The cost of an extra carry-on bag on American Airlines ranges from $35 to $150, depending on your flight route and when you purchase the extra bag. It is always recommended to purchase the extra bag in advance to avoid paying a higher fee at the airport. You can purchase the extra bag online through the American Airlines website or mobile app.

Checked Baggage

American Airlines allows passengers to check up to 10 bags, and the cost of the first checked bag is included in your ticket price. The cost of the second checked bag depends on your destination and the time of booking. If you want to check more than two bags, you will have to pay an extra fee, which varies depending on your flight route and the time of booking.

The cost of an extra checked bag on American Airlines ranges from $85 to $150, depending on your flight route and when you purchase the extra bag. It is always recommended to purchase the extra bag in advance to avoid paying a higher fee at the airport. You can purchase the extra bag online through the American Airlines website or mobile app.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage

American Airlines has specific weight and size restrictions for checked and carry-on baggage. If your bag exceeds the weight and size limit, you will have to pay an additional fee. The cost of an overweight or oversized bag on American Airlines ranges from $100 to $450, depending on your flight route and the extent of the excess weight or size.

To avoid paying an extra fee for overweight or oversized baggage, make sure to check the baggage policy of American Airlines before packing for your trip. You can also consider shipping your luggage instead of carrying it with you on the plane.

Bags for Military Personnel

American Airlines offers special baggage policies for active U.S. military personnel and their dependents. They are allowed to check up to five bags free of charge, and the bags can weigh up to 100 pounds each. The excess baggage fees for military personnel are also lower than the regular fees.

If you are an active U.S. military personnel or a dependent, make sure to show your military ID at check-in to take advantage of these benefits.

Bags for Elite Members

American Airlines offers special baggage policies for their elite members, including AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Platinum members. These members are allowed to check up to three bags free of charge, and the bags can weigh up to 70 pounds each.

If you are an elite member of American Airlines, make sure to show your membership card or provide your membership number at check-in to take advantage of these benefits.

Bags for Sports Equipment

American Airlines allows passengers to bring sports equipment on board, but the equipment will count as a checked bag or an oversized bag, depending on the size and weight. The cost of an extra checked bag or oversized bag for sports equipment ranges from $150 to $200, depending on your flight route and the time of booking.

If you are planning to bring sports equipment with you on your American Airlines flight, make sure to check their baggage policy for sports equipment and the fees associated with it.

Bags for Pets

American Airlines allows passengers to bring pets on board, but they should be in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The cost of bringing a pet on board ranges from $125 to $200, depending on your flight route and the time of booking.

If you are planning to bring your pet with you on your American Airlines flight, make sure to check their pet policy and the fees associated with it.

The Benefits of Paying for an Extra Bag

Paying for an extra bag on American Airlines can be beneficial if you have a lot of luggage or if you want to avoid the hassle of carrying your bags with you. By paying for an extra bag, you can check your bags and have a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience.

The Benefits of Shipping Your Luggage

Shipping your luggage can be a great alternative to paying for an extra bag on American Airlines. By shipping your luggage, you can avoid the hassle of carrying your bags with you and have a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience. Shipping your luggage can also be cost-effective, especially if you have a lot of luggage or if your bags are overweight or oversized.

The Verdict: Is Paying for an Extra Bag Worth It?

Whether paying for an extra bag on American Airlines is worth it or not depends on your travel needs and preferences. If you have a lot of luggage or if you want to avoid the hassle of carrying your bags with you, paying for an extra bag can be beneficial. However, if you are traveling light or if you want to save money, shipping your luggage or packing less can be a better option.

In summary, American Airlines has a strict baggage policy that all passengers must adhere to. The cost of an extra bag on American Airlines ranges from $35 to $150 for a carry-on bag and from $85 to $150 for a checked bag, depending on your flight route and the time of booking. Make sure to check their baggage policy and the fees associated with it before packing for your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to the cost of an extra bag on American Airlines.

What is the baggage allowance for American Airlines?

American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. For checked baggage, the allowance depends on your destination, fare class, and frequent flyer status. Most domestic flights allow one free checked bag for economy class passengers.

If you need to bring additional bags, you can purchase extra baggage allowance online or at the airport. The cost varies depending on the route and the weight of the bag, and can range from $30 to $200 per bag.

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

The cost of checking a second bag on American Airlines varies depending on the route and the weight of the bag. For domestic flights within the United States, the fee is $40 for the second bag and $150 for the third bag. For international flights, the fee can range from $100 to $200 for the second bag.

If you plan to check more than two bags, the cost will increase accordingly. It’s best to check the American Airlines website or contact customer service for specific pricing information.

What is the maximum weight allowed for checked baggage on American Airlines?

The maximum weight allowed for checked baggage on American Airlines is 50 pounds (23 kilograms) for most routes. Bags that weigh more than 50 pounds will incur an overweight baggage fee, which varies depending on the route and can range from $100 to $450 per bag.

If you know your baggage will be over the weight limit, you can purchase additional weight allowance online or at the airport. The cost will depend on the route and the weight of the bag.

What is the maximum size allowed for carry-on baggage on American Airlines?

The maximum size allowed for carry-on baggage on American Airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters), including handles and wheels. If your bag exceeds these dimensions, you will need to check it and pay the appropriate baggage fee.

It’s important to note that the carry-on bag size limit is strictly enforced by American Airlines, so be sure to measure your bag before you arrive at the airport to avoid any surprises.

Can I bring a musical instrument as carry-on baggage on American Airlines?

Yes, you can bring a musical instrument as carry-on baggage on American Airlines, as long as it meets the size and weight requirements. If your instrument is larger than the carry-on size limit, you will need to purchase an extra seat for it or check it as baggage.

It’s a good idea to contact American Airlines customer service in advance to let them know you will be bringing a musical instrument, as they may have specific procedures or requirements to ensure its safe transport.

American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, knowing how much an extra bag on American Airlines can cost is important to avoid any surprises and unnecessary expenses on your trip. By planning ahead and checking the airline’s baggage policy, you can save money and travel stress-free. Remember that the cost of an extra bag varies depending on the route, season, and fare class, so it’s recommended to check the airline’s website or contact customer service for the most up-to-date information.

If you are traveling with more bags than allowed, you may want to consider packing light or shipping your items to your destination. This can save you money and hassle at the airport. Additionally, you can join American Airlines’ loyalty program to earn miles and enjoy perks like free checked bags.

Overall, understanding American Airlines’ baggage policy and fees can help you plan and budget for your trip. By being prepared and informed, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable travel experience with one of the world’s leading airlines.

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