How Many Bags Can Military Check On American Airlines?

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If you’re a military service member or a dependent traveling on American Airlines, you may be wondering how many bags you can check in. American Airlines offers baggage allowances for active duty military personnel and their dependents traveling on official orders, as well as for personal travel. But what are the specific rules and limitations? Let’s explore the baggage policies for military personnel and their dependents on American Airlines.

Whether you’re traveling for deployment, relocation, or personal reasons, it’s important to know the baggage allowances and fees for military personnel on American Airlines. By understanding the rules and regulations, you can avoid any surprises at the airport and ensure a smooth travel experience. So, let’s dive into the details of how many bags military personnel can check on American Airlines.

How Many Bags Can Military Check on American Airlines?

How Many Bags Can Military Check on American Airlines?

Are you a military member or a family member of a military service member traveling with American Airlines? You may be wondering how many bags you can check for free. Here’s what you need to know:

Active Duty Military Personnel

As an active duty military member traveling on official orders, you are allowed to check up to five bags for free on American Airlines. Each bag can weigh up to 100 pounds and measure up to 126 inches (length + width + height). Additionally, you’re allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a purse or laptop bag at no charge.

If you exceed the weight and size limits, you’ll need to pay an additional fee. American Airlines charges $200 for bags weighing between 51-70 pounds, $400 for bags weighing between 71-100 pounds, and $150 for bags measuring between 63-126 inches. Any bags exceeding these limits will not be accepted.

Retired Military Personnel and Dependents

Retired military personnel and their dependents are also allowed to check up to five bags for free on American Airlines, but only when traveling on military orders. For personal travel, the baggage allowance is the same as for regular passengers.

Veterans with Service-Connected Disabilities

Veterans with service-connected disabilities are eligible for several benefits when traveling with American Airlines. If you have a VA disability rating of 100%, you’re allowed to check up to three bags for free, each weighing up to 70 pounds and measuring up to 62 inches. If you have a VA disability rating of 70% or higher, you’re allowed to check up to two bags for free, each weighing up to 50 pounds and measuring up to 62 inches.

Active Duty Military Dependents

Active duty military dependents traveling on orders with their service member are allowed to check up to five bags for free, with the same weight and size limits as for active duty military members. For personal travel, the baggage allowance is the same as for regular passengers.

National Guard and Reserve Members

Members of the National Guard and Reserve traveling on orders are allowed to check up to five bags for free, with the same weight and size limits as for active duty military members. For personal travel, the baggage allowance is the same as for regular passengers.

Bags for Military Musical Instruments

If you’re traveling with a musical instrument as part of your military duties, you may be able to check it in as a regular bag, as long as it meets the size and weight limitations. If it exceeds these limits, you may be able to purchase an additional seat for the instrument at a discounted rate.

Benefits of Military Baggage Allowance

The military baggage allowance on American Airlines is a significant benefit for military members and their families. It eliminates the need to pay extra fees for checked bags, which can add up quickly, especially for longer trips. It also allows military members to bring all the necessary equipment and gear for their duties without worrying about additional costs.

Comparison with Other Airlines

American Airlines’ military baggage allowance is comparable to other major airlines. Delta, for example, allows active duty military members to check up to five bags for free, while United allows up to four bags. However, it’s worth noting that each airline may have different weight and size limits for free checked bags.

Conclusion

In conclusion, military members and their families traveling with American Airlines are allowed to check up to five bags for free, with each bag weighing up to 100 pounds and measuring up to 126 inches. Retired military personnel and dependents can also take advantage of this benefit when traveling on official orders. Veterans with service-connected disabilities are eligible for additional baggage allowances, while National Guard and Reserve members are allowed the same baggage allowance as active duty military members. This benefit is a significant advantage for military members, allowing them to travel with all the equipment and gear they need without worrying about additional costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to military personnel and their baggage when traveling on American Airlines.

What is the baggage allowance for military personnel on American Airlines?

Military personnel traveling on American Airlines are allowed to check up to five bags for free. Each bag can weigh up to 100 pounds (45 kg) and have dimensions of up to 126 inches (320 cm) in total. This allowance applies to active duty military personnel and their dependents, as well as military retirees and their dependents.

It’s important to note that this allowance only applies to personal travel. If military personnel are traveling on official orders, they may be eligible for additional baggage allowances or exemptions.

Can military personnel traveling with a pet bring additional bags?

Yes, military personnel traveling with a pet on American Airlines are allowed to bring an additional carry-on bag in addition to their five checked bags. This carry-on bag must comply with the airline’s size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage. Additionally, the pet and its carrier will count as one carry-on item.

It’s important to note that pets must be in an approved carrier and meet the airline’s requirements for size and weight. There may be additional fees for traveling with a pet.

What if a military member exceeds the baggage allowance?

If a military member exceeds the baggage allowance on American Airlines, they will be charged an excess baggage fee. This fee will depend on the number of additional bags and their weight. Military personnel may be able to have this fee waived if they are traveling on official orders or if they have a special exemption.

It’s important to note that the excess baggage fee is separate from any other fees that may apply, such as fees for overweight or oversize baggage.

What if a military member’s bag is lost or damaged?

If a military member’s bag is lost or damaged on American Airlines, they should immediately report it to the airline’s baggage service office. The airline will work with the military member to locate the bag or provide compensation for any damage or loss. Military members may also be eligible for special compensation or assistance if their bags are lost or delayed while traveling on official orders.

It’s important to note that the airline’s liability for lost or damaged baggage is limited, and there may be restrictions or exclusions that apply. Military members should review the airline’s baggage policies and procedures before traveling.

What if a military member needs to change their flight or itinerary?

If a military member needs to change their flight or itinerary on American Airlines, they should contact the airline’s customer service or reservations department. Military members may be eligible for special waivers or exemptions if they need to change their travel plans due to military orders or other unforeseen circumstances.

It’s important to note that there may be fees or restrictions that apply to changing a flight or itinerary, depending on the fare type and ticket rules. Military members should review the airline’s policies and procedures for changing flights before making any changes.

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


In conclusion, if you are a military member traveling on American Airlines, you are allowed to check up to five bags for free. However, it is important to note that each bag must not exceed 100 pounds in weight or 126 inches in linear dimensions.

This generous baggage allowance is a token of appreciation for the sacrifices and service of the military members. It is also a reflection of American Airlines’ commitment to supporting the troops and their families.

So, if you are a military member planning a trip, don’t hesitate to take advantage of this amazing benefit. Pack everything you need and enjoy your travels without worrying about extra baggage fees. Thank you for your service, and happy travels!

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