Everything You Need to Know About American Airlines Baggage Fees
Flying can be an exciting adventure, but unexpected baggage fees can put a damper on your journey. If you’re planning to travel with American Airlines, it’s essential to understand their baggage policies to avoid surprises. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about American Airlines baggage fees, including handy tips to save you money and stress.
Carry-On Baggage: What’s Included for Free?
Allowance:
Every passenger is allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item at no additional cost. Your personal item can be a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag, while your carry-on should fit in the overhead bin.
Size and Weight Limits:
-Carry-on bag: Maximum dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.
- Personal item: Must fit under the seat in front of you, with no specific size limit, but it should be reasonably small.
Tips:
Pack Light: If you can travel with just a carry-on and personal item, you’ll avoid checked baggage fees altogether.
Check Dimensions: Make sure your carry-on bag meets the size requirements to avoid having to check it at the gate.
Checked Baggage Fees: Domestic and International 1–716–791–9668
Domestic Flights:
First checked bag: $30
Second checked bag: $40
Third checked bag and beyond: $150 per bag
International Flights:
Fees vary depending on your destination. Here’s a general idea:
First checked bag: $0-$60
Second checked bag: $40-$100
Third checked bag and beyond: $150-$200 per bag
Size and Weight Limits:
Dimensions: maximum of 62 inches (158 cm) combined length, width, and height.
Weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) for Economy; 70 lbs (32 kg) for First and Business Class.
Tips:
Weigh Your Bags: Use a luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the weight limits to avoid hefty overweight fees.
Pre-Pay Online: Paying for your checked bags online during check-in can save time at the airport.
Special Items and Exceptions 1–716–791–9668
Oversized and Overweight Bags:
Overweight bags (51–70 lbs): $100 per bag.
Overweight bags (71–100 lbs): $200 per bag.
Oversized bags (over 62 inches): $200 per bag.
Sports Equipment:
American Airlines allows you to check various sports equipment, often for the standard checked bag fee, if they are within the size and weight limits. This includes items like golf bags, skis, and fishing gear.
Musical Instruments:
Small instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Larger instruments may need to be checked and will incur the standard checked bag fees.
Military Exemptions:
Active U.S. military personnel traveling on orders can check up to five bags for free and up to three bags for free on personal travel. Size and weight restrictions apply, but overweight fees are waived for these allowances.
Baggage Fee Waivers: Who Qualifies?
Elite Status Members:
AAdvantage® Gold: First checked bag free.
AAdvantage® Platinum: First and second checked bags are free.
AAdvantage® Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum: First, second, and third checked bags were free.
Credit Card Holders:
Certain American Airlines co-branded credit cards offer free checked bags. For example, Citi® and AAdvantage® Platinum Select® cardholders receive their first checked bag free for themselves and up to four companions on the same reservation.
Premium Cabin Travelers:
First and Business Class passengers often have higher baggage allowances with no fees for multiple bags.
International Travel:
Many international routes include a free checked bag allowance, especially on transatlantic and transpacific flights.
Conclusion
By understanding American Airlines’ baggage fees, you can plan your trip more effectively and avoid unnecessary costs. Always check the latest policies on the American Airlines website before you fly, as fees and regulations can change. With a little preparation, you can ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
Happy travels, and may your journey be smooth and enjoyable!
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This guide aims to provide clear and concise information to help you navigate American Airlines’ baggage policies. Always refer to the official American Airlines website or contact their customer service1–716–791–9668 for the most up-to-date information.