Is Carry On Free With American Airlines?

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If you are planning to travel with American Airlines, you might be wondering if carry on is free. This is a common question that comes up when booking flights, and we are here to provide you with the answer.

Carry on is allowed on American Airlines flights, but there are certain regulations that you need to be aware of. In this article, we will guide you through the rules and fees for carry on luggage on American Airlines, so you can travel with ease and avoid any surprises at the airport. Let’s get started!

Is Carry on Free With American Airlines?

Is Carry on Free With American Airlines?

Are you planning a trip with American Airlines and wondering if you can carry your luggage on board for free? American Airlines, like most airlines, has specific policies regarding carry-on baggage. In this article, we will explore the details of American Airlines’ carry-on policy to help you avoid any confusion or unexpected fees.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board 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.

The maximum dimensions for the personal item are 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm), and for the carry-on bag, they are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). Keep in mind that these dimensions include handles and wheels.

What Can You Bring as a Carry-on?

You can bring a variety of items as carry-on baggage, including clothing, electronics, and personal care items. However, there are some restrictions on what you can bring.

Liquids are limited to containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. All liquids must be placed in a single, clear, quart-sized bag and presented for inspection at the security checkpoint.

Sharp objects, firearms, and explosives are not allowed in carry-on baggage. Additionally, certain items such as hoverboards and smart bags with non-removable lithium-ion batteries are not allowed on American Airlines flights.

Exceptions to Carry-on Policy

There are some exceptions to the carry-on policy for certain passengers. For example, active U.S. military personnel traveling on orders can bring up to five bags for free.

Passengers traveling in first or business class may have a higher carry-on baggage allowance, depending on their fare type. Additionally, American Airlines AAdvantage elite members may have additional carry-on baggage allowances.

Benefits of Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on baggage can be a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers. With carry-on baggage, you can avoid the wait at baggage claim and have your belongings with you at all times.

Additionally, if you are traveling on a budget and want to avoid checked baggage fees, packing light and bringing only carry-on baggage can save you money.

Checked Baggage Fees

If you need to bring additional luggage beyond your carry-on allowance, American Airlines charges checked baggage fees. The fees vary depending on your destination, fare class, and the number of bags you are checking.

For domestic flights within the U.S., the first checked bag fee starts at $30, and the second checked bag fee starts at $40. For international flights, fees can range from $0 to $200 depending on your destination and fare class.

Carry-on vs. Checked Baggage

Deciding whether to bring carry-on or checked baggage depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are traveling light and want to avoid baggage fees, carry-on baggage may be the best option for you.

However, if you need to bring more items or have bulky items that won’t fit in a carry-on bag, you may need to check your luggage. Keep in mind that checked baggage comes with the risk of lost or delayed luggage, so be sure to pack essential items in your carry-on bag.

Conclusion

In summary, American Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free on board. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin.

While carry-on baggage can be a convenient and cost-effective option, checked baggage may be necessary for some travelers. Be sure to check American Airlines’ baggage policies before you travel to avoid any unexpected fees or inconvenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines’ carry-on policy?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onto the plane for free. The carry-on bag must be able to fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Any additional bags or bags that exceed the size or weight limit will be subject to a fee.

What is the size and weight limit for carry-on bags?

The maximum size for a carry-on bag on American Airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. The maximum weight limit is 40 pounds (18 kg). Any bags that exceed these limits will be checked and subject to a fee.

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

Yes, American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onto the plane for free. The carry-on bag must be able to fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples of personal items include a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag.

What items are not allowed in carry-on bags?

American Airlines prohibits certain items from being brought onto the plane in a carry-on bag. These items include firearms, explosives, flammable items, and sharp objects such as scissors or knives. Additionally, any liquids, gels, or aerosols must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and fit in a single quart-sized bag.

What is the fee for checked bags?

The fee for checked bags on American Airlines varies depending on the route, destination, and fare type. Generally, the fee for the first checked bag is $30 for domestic flights and varies for international flights. Additional bags or bags that exceed the size or weight limit will be subject to additional fees.

How many bags can you carry on American Airlines for free?


In conclusion, carry-on baggage policies can be quite confusing, but with American Airlines, you can be assured that your carry-on item is free. However, it is important to note that there are certain restrictions and size limitations that you must adhere to. Always check the airline’s website for the latest information and guidelines.

While there may be other airlines that charge for carry-on items, American Airlines’ policy allows you to bring one personal item and one carry-on item on board without any additional fees. This is particularly beneficial for those who are looking to save money on travel expenses.

Lastly, by packing smart and efficiently, you can make the most of your free carry-on allowance. Consider investing in a high-quality carry-on bag that meets the airline’s size requirements and allows for maximum storage. With American Airlines, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that your carry-on item won’t break the bank.

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