American Airlines Carry-on Size (Latest)

AviaTech Channel
2 min readFeb 1, 2024

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When you’re getting ready for your trip and dealing with airline rules, it can be a bit tricky.

But don’t worry, whether you fly a lot or just love vacations, this guide will make it easy to understand American Airlines’ rules for what you can bring on the plane, so you can go through security without any problems.

Size Rules:

For your main bag, it needs to be no bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters), including the handles and wheels. Think of a regular roller suitcase.

Your smaller bag, like a purse, backpack, or laptop bag, should fit under the seat in front of you and be no larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 centimeters).

Weight Rules:

There isn’t an official weight limit, but be careful because airline staff have the final say. If your bag is too heavy, they might make you check it and charge you fees. Most people stick to around 40 lbs/18 kgs to avoid any problems.

Other Important Stuff:

If you have a soft garment bag, it can be up to 51 inches (130 cm) in total dimensions.

Musical instruments count as carry-ons and need to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.

Remember the 3–1–1 rule for liquids: travel-sized containers of 3.4 oz/100 ml or less in a one-quart zip-lock bag.

Check American Airlines’ website for a list of things you can’t bring.

Special Cases:

If you got a Basic Economy ticket, you might only be allowed one personal item. Check your ticket details.

For international travel, the rules might be different, so check depending on where you’re going.

If your stuff is too big or heavy, you’ll have to pay extra fees.

Tips for Easy Travel:

Pack light and use space-saving tricks like rolling your clothes and using packing cubes.

Check the size of your bags with a measuring tape before you get to the airport.

Put a clear label on your bags so you can find them easily.

Be ready for random checks at the gate during busy times, and make sure your bag follows the rules.

Useful Links:

American Airlines Carry-on Rules: https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/baggage/carry-on-baggage.jsp

American Airlines Baggage Fees: https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/baggage/checked-baggage-policy.jsp

COMPLETE GUIDE HERE: https://aviatechchannel.com/american-airlines-carry-on-size/#what-does-american-airlines-allow-for-carry-on

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