Does American Airlines Charge For A Carry On?

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Flying can be stressful enough without worrying about unexpected fees. If you’re planning a trip with American Airlines, you may be wondering if they charge for a carry-on bag. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think, so let’s dive in and explore the details.

First, it’s important to understand that American Airlines has different baggage policies depending on the type of ticket you purchase and your destination. In general, though, most passengers are allowed to bring a carry-on bag plus a personal item on board for free. However, there are some exceptions and potential fees that you should be aware of before you pack your bags.

Does American Airlines Charge for a Carry on?

Does American Airlines Charge for a Carry on?

American Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the United States, providing excellent services to its passengers. However, many travelers wonder if they charge extra for carry-on luggage. In this article, we will explore this topic in detail and provide you with all the necessary information.

Carry-On Allowance

American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. A carry-on bag must be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches and fit in the overhead bin. Personal items must be no larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches and fit under the seat in front of you. American Airlines does not charge extra for carry-on luggage that meets these requirements.

However, if your carry-on bag is too big to fit in the overhead bin or exceeds the weight limit of 40 pounds, you will have to check it in at the gate. American Airlines charges a fee of $30 for the first checked bag, $40 for the second, and $150 for each additional bag.

Basic Economy Fare

If you have purchased a Basic Economy fare, you are allowed to bring only one personal item on board, such as a purse or a small backpack. You will have to pay an additional fee of $35 to bring a carry-on bag, which must be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches, on board. If your bag does not fit in the overhead bin, you will have to check it in at the gate and pay a fee of $60.

It is important to note that Basic Economy fares do not allow you to choose your seat or make changes to your itinerary, and you will board the plane last. If you need more flexibility, you should consider purchasing a higher fare class.

Benefits of Carry-On Luggage

Carry-on luggage has many benefits for travelers, including convenience, flexibility, and cost savings. By bringing your own bag on board, you can avoid the long wait times at baggage claim and ensure that your belongings are safe and secure. You can also easily access your belongings during the flight, making it easier to stay comfortable and entertained.

In addition, carrying on your luggage can save you money on baggage fees. While American Airlines charges for checked bags, you can bring your carry-on bag for free as long as it meets the size and weight requirements. This can save you up to $150 per round-trip flight, depending on the number of bags you bring.

Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to bring a carry-on or checked bag on your American Airlines flight. Carry-on bags are more convenient and cost-effective, but they can be more difficult to pack and can take up valuable overhead bin space. Checked bags, on the other hand, can hold more items and can be easier to transport, but they require more time and effort to check in and retrieve.

Ultimately, your decision will depend on your travel needs and preferences. If you are traveling for a short period and do not need to bring many items, a carry-on bag may be the best option for you. However, if you are traveling for a longer period or need to bring more items, a checked bag may be more practical.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines does not charge for carry-on luggage that meets the size and weight requirements. However, if your bag is too big or too heavy, you will have to check it in at the gate and pay a fee. If you have purchased a Basic Economy fare, you will have to pay an additional fee to bring a carry-on bag on board.

Carry-on luggage has many benefits, including convenience, flexibility, and cost savings. However, you should consider the pros and cons of carrying on vs. checking your luggage before making your decision. Regardless of your choice, American Airlines provides excellent services to ensure that your travel experience is comfortable and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines’ baggage policy?

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. Any additional or oversized bags will incur a fee.

What is the cost for checked baggage on American Airlines?

The cost for checked baggage on American Airlines varies depending on the route and fare class. For domestic flights, the first checked bag is $30 and the second checked bag is $40. For international flights, the fees can range from $0 to $200 depending on the destination and fare class.

What is considered a carry-on bag on American Airlines?

A carry-on bag on American Airlines is defined as a bag that must fit in the overhead bin. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Any bag that exceeds these dimensions will not be allowed on board as a carry-on bag.

Are there any exemptions to the carry-on bag size limit on American Airlines?

Yes, there are a few exemptions to the carry-on bag size limit on American Airlines. Musical instruments that fit in the overhead bin are allowed on board regardless of their size. Assistive devices and mobility aids are also exempt from the size limit, but they must comply with safety regulations.

What happens if my carry-on bag is too big for American Airlines?

If your carry-on bag is too big for American Airlines, you will be required to check it at the gate. You will be charged the applicable checked baggage fee, and your bag will be transported in the cargo hold of the aircraft. If you have any valuable or fragile items in your bag, it is recommended that you remove them and carry them with you on board.

American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, American Airlines does not charge for a carry-on bag as long as it meets the size requirements. However, it’s important to note that American Airlines charges for checked baggage, overweight or oversized bags, and additional bags beyond the allowance. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the airline’s baggage policy before traveling to avoid any unexpected fees.

Overall, American Airlines provides a straightforward baggage policy that allows passengers to bring a carry-on bag for free. This is a great benefit for travelers looking to save money and avoid the hassle of checking bags. By following the airline’s size requirements and packing efficiently, passengers can easily bring their essentials on board without any extra fees.

In summary, American Airlines offers a convenient and cost-effective option for those traveling with carry-on bags. By understanding the airline’s baggage policy and packing smartly, travelers can enjoy a stress-free flight without worrying about additional fees.

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