How Much Does American Airlines Charge For Bags Over 50lbs?

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For frequent flyers, packing for a trip is an art form. It’s all about striking the perfect balance between bringing everything you need and not exceeding your airline’s baggage allowances. American Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the world, has a baggage policy that is both straightforward and easy to understand. But how much does American Airlines charge for bags over 50lbs? Let’s take a closer look and find out!

First, it’s important to note that American Airlines charges a fee for any checked bag, regardless of its weight. However, if your bag exceeds the weight limit of 50lbs, you will be subject to an additional fee. In this article, we’ll explore the different fees associated with overweight bags on American Airlines, as well as some tips on how to avoid them. So, pack your bags and let’s get started!

How Much Does American Airlines Charge for Bags Over 50lbs?

How Much Does American Airlines Charge for Bags Over 50lbs?

Are you planning to travel with American Airlines and wondering how much you’ll be charged for bags over 50lbs? Understanding the airline’s baggage policy can help you avoid unnecessary fees and make your travel experience smoother. In this article, we’ll break down American Airlines’ fees for bags over 50lbs and provide some tips to make packing easier.

Checked Baggage Policy

American Airlines allows passengers to check up to 10 bags per person for domestic and international flights. However, each bag must adhere to the weight and size restrictions set by the airline. For bags weighing more than 50lbs, American Airlines charges an additional fee on top of the standard checked baggage fee.

The fee for bags weighing between 51-70lbs on domestic flights is $100 per bag, while on international flights, the fee is $200 per bag. If your bag weighs between 71-100lbs, you’ll be charged $200 per bag on domestic flights and $400 per bag on international flights. Bags weighing over 100lbs are not accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped via American Airlines Cargo.

To avoid these additional fees, it’s essential to pack smartly and weigh your bags before arriving at the airport. If your bag is close to the weight limit, consider removing some items or redistributing them among your other bags.

Cabin Baggage Policy

In addition to checked baggage, American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, into the cabin. These items must fit within the airline’s size restrictions, which are 22 x 14 x 9 inches for carry-on bags and 18 x 14 x 8 inches for personal items.

If your carry-on bag or personal item exceeds the size or weight limits, you may be asked to check it at the gate, and additional fees may apply. To avoid this, make sure to measure and weigh your bags before arriving at the airport.

Benefits of Packing Light

While American Airlines’ baggage fees can add up quickly, there are several benefits to packing light. First, it can save you time and hassle at the airport, as you won’t have to wait in long lines to check or pick up your bags. Second, it can save you money on baggage fees. Finally, it can make your travel experience more comfortable, as you’ll have fewer bags to carry and maneuver through crowded airports.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines charges additional fees for bags weighing over 50lbs, with fees varying based on the weight and destination of the flight. To avoid these fees, it’s essential to pack smartly and weigh your bags before arriving at the airport. Additionally, packing light can save you time and money, as well as make your travel experience more comfortable. By following these tips, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey with American Airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about American Airlines baggage fees.

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

American Airlines allows checked bags to weigh up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) for domestic flights and flights to/from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. For flights to/from other international destinations, the weight limit is 70 pounds (32 kilograms).

If your bag weighs more than the limit, you will be charged an additional fee. The fee varies depending on your destination and route, so it’s best to check with American Airlines directly or consult their website for the most up-to-date information.

What is the fee for checked bags on American Airlines?

The fee for checked bags on American Airlines varies depending on your route and fare class. For domestic flights and flights to/from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America, the first checked bag fee is $30 and the second checked bag fee is $40.

If you are traveling to/from other international destinations, the fees may be higher. Additionally, if your bag is oversized or overweight, you may be charged an additional fee. It’s always best to check with American Airlines directly or consult their website for the most up-to-date information.

Does American Airlines charge for carry-on bags?

No, American Airlines does not charge for carry-on bags. However, there are size and weight restrictions for carry-on bags, so it’s important to make sure your bag meets these requirements before you arrive at the airport.

If your carry-on bag is larger or heavier than the allowed dimensions, you may be required to check it and pay the applicable checked baggage fees.

What is the fee for oversized baggage on American Airlines?

If your bag is oversized (larger than 62 linear inches), you will be charged an additional fee on American Airlines. The fee for oversized baggage on domestic flights and flights to/from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America is $150. For flights to/from other international destinations, the fee may be higher.

It’s important to note that oversized bags may also be subject to additional handling fees or charges for overweight baggage if they exceed the weight limit.

What is the fee for overweight baggage on American Airlines?

If your bag weighs more than the weight limit (50 pounds for domestic flights and flights to/from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America; 70 pounds for flights to/from other international destinations), you will be charged an additional fee on American Airlines. The fee for overweight baggage is $100 for bags weighing between 51-70 pounds, and $200 for bags weighing between 71-100 pounds.

If your bag weighs more than 100 pounds, you will need to make special arrangements with American Airlines for transport. Additionally, overweight bags may also be subject to additional handling fees or charges for oversized baggage if they exceed the size limit.

What happens if your bag is over 50 pounds American Airlines?


In conclusion, American Airlines charges an additional fee for bags that weigh over 50lbs. The cost varies depending on the route and destination of your flight. It is important to check with American Airlines directly or through their website for the most up-to-date information regarding baggage fees.

To avoid any surprises at the airport, it is recommended to weigh your luggage before heading to the airport and make sure it does not exceed the weight limit. If you find that your bag is over the weight limit, consider packing lighter or shipping some of your items ahead of time.

In summary, being aware of American Airlines’ baggage policies and fees can help save you time and money on your travels. With a little planning and preparation, you can avoid any extra fees and enjoy a stress-free trip.

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