Independent summary, reviewed September 2026. WarBird Flight is not affiliated with American Airlines. Exact fees depend on route and fare; the agent quotes them for your booking.
American Airlines Baggage Allowance and Fees
What American Airlines includes for carry-on and checked bags, where fees apply, and how to add bags at the lowest price. Call (708) 866-8751 to add bags to a booking or to book a fare that includes them.
Carry-on
One carry-on and one personal item on all fares, including Basic Economy.
Checked bags
First and second checked bag fees on domestic Main Cabin and Basic Economy; complimentary on most international long-haul routes, for AAdvantage elites, and with co-branded cards.
Good to know
Bags added at booking or at least 24 hours before departure online are cheaper than airport check-in fees.
Overweight bags (over 50 lb / 23 kg on most carriers) and oversize bags carry extra fees on every airline. Sports equipment, instruments, and medical devices have their own rules; the agent can add them to the booking.
Fare classes and bags on American Airlines
- Basic Economy: Lowest fare. No changes, seat assigned at check-in, boards last; carry-on included.
- Main Cabin: Standard economy with seat selection and free changes on most fares.
- Main Cabin Extra: Extra legroom, preferred boarding, complimentary drinks.
- Premium Economy / First / Flagship: Premium economy on long-haul; domestic First; Flagship Business and Flagship First on long-haul and premium transcontinental routes.
Baggage help on American Airlines
Licensed agents at our partner agency handle these by phone, 24/7. No charge for a quote.
Guides on baggage, seats, and special items
Airline policiesChecked Bag and Carry-On Rules Compared Across AirlinesHow the major US and international carriers differ on carry-ons, first-bag fees, and who gets bags free.
Airline policiesFlying with Sports Gear and Musical Instruments: Bags, Fees, and the Cabin RuleHow airlines handle golf clubs, skis, bikes, and surfboards, the rule that lets small instruments in the cabin, and how to protect a fragile item in the hold.
Booking tipsSeat Selection Fees: When You Pay, When You Don't, and Sitting TogetherHow seat fees work on the major US carriers, which fares include a seat, how families get seated together without paying, and when to just pick at check-in.
Airline policiesAirline Pet Policies Compared: In-Cabin, Checked, and CargoWhich airlines take pets in the cabin, size and fee rules, and the shrinking options for larger dogs.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a checked bag on American?
A first-bag fee applies on domestic Main Cabin and Basic Economy fares. Many long-haul international routes include a free bag. The agent will confirm the fee for your itinerary.
What is American's carry-on size limit?
22 x 14 x 9 inches including handles and wheels, plus a personal item that fits under the seat.
American Airlines booking · American Airlines changes and cancellations
Compiled by the WarBird Flight editors from each airline's published contract of carriage and U.S. Department of Transportation consumer rules, not marketing claims. Updated September 2026. Sources: DOT Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, Bureau of Transportation Statistics.