How Much Do American Airline Charge For Baggage?

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Flying can be an exciting experience, but it can also come with a lot of hidden costs. One of these costs is baggage fees. As a traveler, you might be wondering how much American airlines charge for baggage, and what factors affect these fees. In this article, we will explore the different baggage fees charged by American airlines, and provide you with tips to help you save money on your next flight. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of baggage fees!

How Much Do American Airline Charge for Baggage?

How Much Do American Airlines Charge for Baggage?

American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the United States. They have a baggage policy that may vary depending on the route and the ticket purchased. In this article, we will discuss the current baggage fees for American Airlines.

Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on baggage is a small bag that passengers usually bring with them on the plane. American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, per passenger. The maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels.

If your carry-on bag exceeds the dimensions, you will be required to check it in at the gate. American Airlines does not charge for carry-on baggage. However, if you have purchased a Basic Economy fare, you will only be allowed to bring one personal item on board, and you will be required to pay for a carry-on bag.

Checked Baggage

American Airlines charges for checked baggage, and the fees may vary depending on the route and the ticket purchased. For domestic flights, American Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag. The weight limit for each checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kg), and the maximum dimensions are 62 linear inches (158 cm).

If you are traveling internationally, the fees for checked baggage may vary. For most international flights, American Airlines charges $0 for the first checked bag and $100 for the second checked bag. However, the fees may be different for flights to certain countries, so it’s essential to check the baggage policy before your flight.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage

If your checked bag exceeds the weight or size limits, American Airlines will charge you an additional fee. For bags weighing between 51-70 pounds (23-32 kg), American Airlines charges $100 per bag. For bags weighing between 71-100 pounds (32-45 kg), the fee is $200 per bag.

For oversized bags, which exceed the maximum dimensions of 62 linear inches (158 cm), American Airlines charges $200 per bag. If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you will be charged both fees.

Special Items

American Airlines allows passengers to bring special items, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets, on board or as checked baggage. However, additional fees may apply, and there are specific rules and regulations for each item.

For example, if you want to bring a pet on board, you will need to pay a fee of $125 per kennel. If you want to bring a musical instrument on board, it will count as your carry-on item, and it must fit under the seat or in the overhead bin.

Benefits of American Airlines Baggage Policy

American Airlines baggage policy has some benefits for passengers. Passengers are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board, free of charge. This can save you money on baggage fees and also save you time at the airport.

Passengers can also purchase baggage allowance at the time of booking, which can save them money compared to paying the fees at the airport. American Airlines also offers special baggage allowances for active-duty military personnel and their dependents.

American Airlines vs. Other Airlines

Compared to other airlines, American Airlines baggage fees are relatively competitive. For example, Delta charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag for domestic flights. United Airlines charges $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag.

However, some airlines, such as Southwest Airlines, do not charge for the first two checked bags, making them a more affordable option for passengers who need to check multiple bags.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines charges for checked baggage, with fees that may vary depending on the route and the ticket purchased. Passengers are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board, free of charge. American Airlines baggage policy has some benefits for passengers, such as purchasing baggage allowance at the time of booking. Compared to other airlines, American Airlines baggage fees are relatively competitive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the baggage allowance for American Airlines?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. For checked baggage, the fees depend on the destination, travel class, and loyalty status of the passenger.

For domestic flights within the United States, the first checked bag costs $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second bag when paid in advance. For international flights, the fees range from $0 to $200 depending on the route and travel class. These fees may also be waived or reduced for elite status members.

What is the weight limit for checked baggage on American Airlines?

The weight limit for checked baggage on American Airlines depends on the destination and travel class. For domestic flights within the United States, the weight limit is 50 pounds for most travel classes. For international flights, the weight limit varies from 50 to 70 pounds depending on the destination and travel class.

Passengers who exceed the weight limit may be subject to additional fees or may need to split their luggage into multiple bags. It is important to check the baggage allowance for your specific flight before packing to avoid any surprises at the airport.

What is the fee for oversized baggage on American Airlines?

The fee for oversized baggage on American Airlines is $200 per bag in addition to any applicable checked baggage fees. Oversized baggage is defined as any bag with total dimensions (length + width + height) greater than 62 inches, but less than 126 inches.

Passengers who need to transport oversized baggage should contact American Airlines in advance to make arrangements and ensure that their bags can be accommodated on the flight. It is also important to note that oversized baggage may be subject to additional handling fees or restrictions.

What is the fee for sports equipment on American Airlines?

The fee for sports equipment on American Airlines varies depending on the type of equipment and the destination. For domestic flights within the United States, the fees range from $30 to $150 per item.

Common sports equipment such as golf bags, skis, and snowboards are generally subject to the same fees as regular checked baggage. However, larger items such as surfboards, kayaks, and bicycles may require additional fees or special handling arrangements.

How can I avoid baggage fees on American Airlines?

There are several ways to avoid baggage fees on American Airlines. One option is to travel with only a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. This is allowed on all American Airlines flights and does not incur any additional fees.

Another option is to qualify for elite status with American Airlines or a partner airline. Elite status members may be eligible for free checked baggage or waived fees depending on their level of status.

Finally, certain credit cards may offer benefits such as free checked baggage or statement credits for baggage fees. It is important to check the terms and conditions of your credit card to see if any baggage benefits are included.

American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, American airlines charge varying fees for checked baggage depending on the airline, destination, and weight of the bag. It is important to research these fees before booking a flight to avoid any unexpected charges at the airport.

While some airlines offer free checked baggage for certain fares or loyalty program members, others may charge up to $150 per bag for overweight or oversized luggage. It is also important to note that fees for carry-on baggage may be charged separately or included in the ticket price.

To save money on baggage fees, consider packing light and only bringing essentials. Additionally, some credit cards offer perks such as free checked bags or airline credits, so it may be worth looking into these options before booking your next flight.

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