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 federal 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