How Much Does American Airlines Charge For A Checked Bag?

Are you planning a trip with American Airlines and wondering how much they charge for checked bags? It’s a common question for many travelers who want to avoid any unexpected fees at the airport. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about American Airlines’ checked bag fees, so you can plan your travels accordingly and avoid any surprises.

How Much Does American Airlines Charge for a Checked Bag?

Overview

If you are planning to travel with American Airlines, it is essential to know the cost of checked baggage fees. It is important to understand the policies and fees to plan your budget accordingly. The cost of checked baggage will vary based on the route and fare type you choose. In this article, we will provide you with the complete guide on how much American Airlines charges for a checked bag.

When you book your flight with American Airlines, you will have the option to choose your fare type. There are different fare types, such as Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class. The baggage fees will vary based on your fare type.

Domestic Flights

For domestic flights within the United States, American Airlines allows you to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. If you want to check a bag, the fee will depend on your fare type. For Basic Economy, the first checked bag will cost $30, and the second checked bag will cost $40. For Main Cabin, the first checked bag will cost $30, and the second checked bag will cost $40. For Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class, two checked bags are included in the fare.

If your bag exceeds the weight and size limit, additional fees will apply. For overweight bags, the fee is $100 for bags weighing between 51-70lbs and $200 for bags weighing between 71-100lbs. For oversized bags, the fee is $150.

International Flights

For international flights, American Airlines allows you to bring one personal item, one carry-on bag, and two checked bags for free. The baggage fees will vary based on the destination and fare type. For Basic Economy, the first checked bag will cost $60, and the second checked bag will cost $100. For Main Cabin, the first checked bag will cost $60, and the second checked bag will cost $100. For Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class, two checked bags are included in the fare.

If your bag exceeds the weight and size limit, additional fees will apply. For overweight bags, the fee is $100 for bags weighing between 51-70lbs and $200 for bags weighing between 71-100lbs. For oversized bags, the fee is $200.

Benefits of Prepaying Baggage Fees

American Airlines offers the option to prepay your baggage fees during the booking process. By prepaying your baggage fees, you can save money and time at the airport. You can save up to $5 on each bag by prepaying. Additionally, prepaying will ensure that your bags are checked and confirmed in advance, saving you time at the airport.

Baggage Vs Fare Type

The baggage fees for American Airlines vary based on your fare type. If you are traveling on a Basic Economy fare, you will be charged for your checked bags. However, if you are traveling on Premium Economy, Business Class, or First Class, two checked bags are included in the fare. It is important to consider your baggage needs when choosing your fare type.

Baggage Fees Vs Baggage Weight

The baggage fees for American Airlines also vary based on the weight and size of your bags. If your bag exceeds the weight and size limit, additional fees will apply. It is important to pack your bags within the weight and size limit to avoid additional fees.

Baggage Fees Vs Baggage Size

The baggage fees for American Airlines also vary based on the size of your bags. If your bag exceeds the size limit, additional fees will apply. It is important to measure your bags and pack them within the size limit to avoid additional fees.

Baggage Fees Vs Baggage Quantity

The baggage fees for American Airlines also vary based on the number of checked bags you have. If you have more than one checked bag, additional fees will apply. It is important to consider your baggage needs and pack accordingly to avoid additional fees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines charges baggage fees based on your fare type, destination, and the number of checked bags you have. It is important to understand the baggage policies and fees to plan your budget accordingly. By prepaying your baggage fees and packing within the weight and size limit, you can save money and time at the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers regarding American Airlines’ baggage fees.

What is American Airlines’ baggage policy?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. Checked baggage fees vary based on the destination, fare class, and frequent flyer status. Passengers can check up to 10 bags, but fees will apply for each additional bag. Oversized and overweight bags may also incur additional fees.

Passengers can check their baggage at the airport or online prior to their flight. It is recommended to check the baggage fees for your specific flight before arriving at the airport.

How much does American Airlines charge for a checked bag on domestic flights?

For domestic flights within the United States, American Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag. Additional bags will cost $150 each. These fees apply to passengers in the main cabin and basic economy fare class. Passengers in higher fare classes and with elite status may be eligible for waived baggage fees.

Passengers can save money on baggage fees by paying in advance online or through the American Airlines app. If baggage fees are paid at the airport, an additional $5 fee will be charged per bag.

How much does American Airlines charge for a checked bag on international flights?

For international flights, the checked baggage fees vary based on the destination and fare class. Passengers should check the baggage fee chart on American Airlines’ website or contact customer service for specific fees for their flight.

Passengers may be eligible for waived baggage fees on international flights depending on their fare class, frequent flyer status, and destination. Some international flights also allow for a higher baggage allowance than domestic flights.

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

The size limit for checked baggage on American Airlines is a maximum of 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kilograms). Oversized and overweight bags may incur additional fees.

If a bag exceeds the weight or size limit, it may not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo. Passengers should contact American Airlines’ customer service for more information on shipping bags as cargo.

What items are prohibited from checked baggage on American Airlines?

American Airlines prohibits certain items from being checked in baggage, including explosives, flammable items, and firearms. Other items, such as liquids and sharp objects, may be allowed in checked baggage but must be properly packed and labeled. Passengers should check American Airlines’ website or contact customer service for a full list of prohibited items.

Passengers should also be aware of any international regulations regarding prohibited items in their checked baggage, as these may differ from American Airlines’ policies.

American Airlines Baggage Fees Explained

In conclusion, the cost of checked baggage on American Airlines varies depending on a few factors such as the route, destination, and fare class. It is important to note that fees can add up quickly, especially if traveling with multiple bags or heavy items. To avoid any surprises, it is recommended to check American Airlines’ website for the most up-to-date information and to plan accordingly.

While checked baggage fees may seem like an inconvenience, they are a common practice among airlines and help cover the costs of fuel, labor, and other expenses. Additionally, American Airlines offers various options for customers to save on baggage fees such as booking a higher fare class or joining their loyalty program, AAdvantage.

Overall, it is important to be aware of the baggage fees when booking a flight with American Airlines and to plan accordingly to avoid any additional costs. With a little bit of research and preparation, passengers can enjoy a seamless travel experience with American Airlines.