How Many Luggage Can I Take On American Airlines?

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Are you planning a trip with American Airlines and wondering how many bags you can bring? Look no further, as we have all the information you need to know about American Airlines’ baggage policy.

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the last thing you want is to be caught off guard with baggage fees or restrictions. With American Airlines’ various fare classes and destinations, it’s important to know exactly how many bags you can bring and any additional fees you may incur. Keep reading to learn more about American Airlines’ luggage allowances.

How Many Luggage Can I Take on American Airlines?

How Many Luggage Can I Take on American Airlines?

American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world that operates both domestically and internationally. If you are planning to travel with American Airlines, one of the most important things to know is how many pieces of luggage you can take with you. In this article, we will discuss the baggage policy of American Airlines and answer some frequently asked questions.

Carry-On Baggage

Carry-on baggage is the luggage that you can take with you on the plane and store in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. American Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger. The personal item can be a small purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or a backpack that fits under the seat in front of you. The carry-on bag should not exceed the following dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels.

If your carry-on bag exceeds the allowed size, you will have to check it in at the gate, and a fee may apply. American Airlines also has restrictions on liquids, gels, and aerosols that you can carry in your carry-on bag. The containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item, and they must be placed in a clear, plastic, sealable bag.

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage is the luggage that you check in at the airport and pick up at the baggage claim area at your destination. American Airlines allows you to check up to 10 bags per passenger on most flights. However, the number of bags allowed may vary depending on your destination, fare class, and frequent flyer status.

The standard weight and size limits for checked baggage on American Airlines are as follows:

– Maximum weight: 50 pounds (23 kg)
– Maximum size: 62 inches (158 cm) including handles and wheels

If your baggage exceeds the weight or size limit, you will have to pay an additional fee. American Airlines also has restrictions on hazardous materials that you can pack in your checked baggage, such as explosives, flammable liquids, and compressed gases.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage

If your baggage exceeds the weight or size limit, you will have to pay an additional fee. The fee for overweight and oversized baggage depends on your destination, fare class, and frequent flyer status. The fees for overweight and oversized baggage on American Airlines are as follows:

– Overweight baggage (51-70 pounds): $100-$200 per bag
– Overweight baggage (71-100 pounds): $200-$450 per bag
– Oversized baggage (63-126 inches): $200 per bag

If your baggage exceeds the maximum size limit of 126 inches (320 cm), you will have to contact American Airlines Cargo for shipping options.

Sports Equipment

If you are traveling with sports equipment, such as golf clubs, skis, or surfboards, American Airlines allows you to check them in as part of your baggage allowance. However, the oversized and overweight fees may apply if your equipment exceeds the weight and size limit. American Airlines also has special policies for certain sports equipment, such as bikes, fishing equipment, and scuba diving gear. You can find more information about the policies and fees on the American Airlines website.

Service and Support Animals

If you are traveling with a service or support animal, American Airlines allows you to bring them with you free of charge. However, you have to notify the airline in advance and provide the required documentation. American Airlines also has restrictions on the types of animals that can travel with you, and they must be trained to behave properly in public settings.

Benefits of American Airlines Baggage Policy

American Airlines baggage policy is designed to provide flexibility and convenience to passengers. With the option to check up to 10 bags per passenger, you can pack everything you need for your trip without worrying about exceeding the limit. American Airlines also allows you to carry sports equipment and service animals with you, which is a great benefit for travelers who have special needs.

American Airlines Baggage Policy vs Other Airlines

When it comes to baggage policy, American Airlines is comparable to other major airlines, such as Delta, United, and Southwest. However, the fees for overweight and oversized baggage on American Airlines are slightly higher than on some other airlines. For example, Southwest allows you to check two bags free of charge, and they have lower fees for overweight and oversized baggage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines baggage policy is designed to provide flexibility and convenience to passengers. You can bring one personal item and one carry-on bag with you on the plane, and you can check up to 10 bags per passenger. However, you have to pay an additional fee if your baggage exceeds the weight or size limit. American Airlines also has special policies for sports equipment and service animals, which is a great benefit for travelers who have special needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines’ baggage policy?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, for free. Checked luggage fees vary depending on the route and fare purchased. Passengers can check up to 10 bags on domestic and international flights.

Passengers can also purchase additional baggage allowance online, at the airport check-in counter or at the self-service kiosk. Oversized and overweight bags will incur additional fees.

What are the size and weight limitations for checked luggage?

For domestic flights, checked luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and 50 pounds. For international flights, the maximum weight limit varies depending on the destination. Passengers can purchase additional allowance if their checked luggage exceeds the weight limit.

Oversized and overweight bags will incur additional fees. American Airlines also reserves the right to reject any luggage that is considered dangerous or unsuitable for travel.

Can I bring a pet carrier as my carry-on bag?

Yes, passengers can bring a pet carrier as their carry-on bag if they are traveling with a small cat or dog. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of the passenger and count as the one carry-on bag allowed. Passengers must also pay a fee for their pet to travel in the cabin.

Larger pets must travel in the cargo hold and count as checked luggage. Passengers must also meet additional requirements for traveling with a pet, such as obtaining the necessary health certificates.

What items are prohibited in luggage on American Airlines flights?

Passengers are prohibited from packing hazardous materials, such as explosives, flammable liquids and gases, and certain chemicals, in their luggage on American Airlines flights. Other prohibited items include firearms, stun guns, and self-defense sprays.

Passengers should also avoid packing valuable items, such as cash, jewelry, and electronics, in their checked luggage. American Airlines is not responsible for lost or damaged items.

Can I check in luggage online?

Yes, passengers can check in luggage online up to 24 hours before their flight departure time. They can print out their boarding pass and luggage tags at home or use a self-service kiosk at the airport to print them out.

Passengers must drop off their luggage at the baggage drop-off counter or designated area at the airport. They should arrive at the airport at least two hours before their domestic flight departure time and three hours before their international flight departure time.

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


In conclusion, American Airlines has different baggage allowances depending on the type of ticket you purchase and your destination. It is important to review the airline’s baggage policy before packing and heading to the airport.

Travelers can use the airline’s website to determine their baggage allowance and any additional fees that may apply. It is recommended that passengers pack efficiently and consider purchasing extra baggage allowance in advance to avoid any unexpected fees at the airport.

Remember, knowing the baggage allowance policy and packing accordingly can lead to a stress-free travel experience with American Airlines. Happy travels!

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