Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! As a couple who loves to explore new places and experience different cultures, we know that traveling can be one of life’s most exciting adventures.
But as much as we love to travel, we also know that it can be expensive, especially when it comes to baggage fees.
That’s why we wanted to take some time to share what we’ve learned about American Airlines’ baggage fees and how you can avoid unnecessary charges and make the most of your travel budget.
About American Airlines
Did you know that American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world?!
More than 160 million people fly with them each year. Like many airlines, American Airlines charges fees for checked baggage, carry-on baggage, and overweight/oversized baggage.
We want to share with you what we’ve learned so you don’t make the same travel mistakes! Don’t do what we did!
Keep reading for our helpful tips for navigating American Airlines’ baggage fees.
American Airlines Baggage Fees
International vs Domestic Flights
First off, let’s talk about the differences in baggage fees for domestic vs international flights. As a frequent traveler, I’ve found that American Airlines baggage fees for international flights are often higher than those for domestic flights.
This is due to a variety of factors, including longer distances and the added expenses of handling baggage across multiple countries.
Fees can vary widely based on your destination. That’s why it’s important to research the specific fees for your destination ahead of time to avoid any surprises.
Checked Baggage
Fees
If you’re like me, you know that packing for a trip can be stressful enough without worrying about baggage fees and restrictions!
For domestic flights within the US, including Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, you’ll pay $30 for your first checked bag, $40 for your second, $150 for your third, and $200 for any additional bags.
For international flights, fees can be much higher, with prices up to $75 for your first checked bag if you’re traveling to Europe or Asia.
These fees can add up quickly, so it’s important to factor them into your travel budget.
Size Restrictions
American Airlines also has strict regulations around the size and weight of checked baggage.
As someone who has accidentally packed too much and had to pay extra fees, I know firsthand the importance of measuring and weighing your bags before you head to the airport!
The maximum weight for checked bags is 50 pounds (23 kg), and the maximum size is 62 inches (157 cm) (length + width + height). You’re allowed up to 70 pounds if traveling to/from Australia and New Zealand.
Carry-On Baggage
Fees
American Airlines allows you to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard at no additional cost, which is a great perk for those of us who like to have our essentials close at hand.
Size Restrictions
In our experience, it’s helpful to pack your personal item with items that you’ll need during the flight, such as a book, snacks, and a water bottle. That way, you can save space in your carry-on bag for larger items like clothes and shoes.
We also recommend investing in a high-quality carry-on bag that meets American Airlines’ size restrictions (22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), as a well-designed bag can help you make the most of your allotted space.
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By understanding American Airlines’ baggage policies and packing smartly, you can make the most of your travel experience without breaking the bank.
So, next time you’re packing for a flight, take some time to plan ahead and pack thoughtfully to make the most of your carry-on and personal item.
Make sure you know what is allowed in your carry-on bag!
Overweight/Oversized Baggage Fees
Have you ever arrived at the airport only to find out that your luggage is overweight or oversized? It’s a frustrating experience that can result in unexpected fees from the airline.
- If your bag weighs between 51-70 pounds (23-32 kg), the fee is $100 per bag, with the exception of Cuba in which the fee is $200 per bag.
- If your bag measures between 62-126 inches (158-320 cm), the fee is $200 per bag.
- If your bag is both overweight and oversized, the fee is $200 per bag.
These fees can quickly add up and put a damper on your travel budget!
Ways To Avoid Additional Costs
- We always make sure to weigh our bags at home
- Measure your bag to ensure the dimensions comply with American Airlines’ size restrictions.
- Pack light and only bring what you need for your trip.
- Wear your bulky clothes on the flight to save luggage space.
By being mindful of your baggage size and weight and planning ahead, you can avoid unexpected fees and make the most of your travel budget!
Tips for Saving Money on Baggage Fees
There are several ways to save money on American Airlines baggage fees. Here are some helpful tips:
Check Your Baggage Weight and Size
Make sure your bags meet American Airlines’ baggage restrictions to avoid additional fees. Here is a general overview of the baggage policies for American Airlines:
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters), including handles and wheels.
- Personal Item: In addition to a carry-on bag, passengers are usually allowed to bring one personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack, which should fit under the seat in front of you.
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- Checked Baggage:
- Dimensions: There are no specific size restrictions for checked baggage, but it’s recommended to ensure that your bag does not exceed 62 linear inches (158 centimeters) when adding the length, width, and height together.
- Weight: The weight allowance for checked bags depends on various factors, such as the fare type, destination, and frequent flyer status. Generally, the weight limit ranges from 50 to 70 pounds (23 to 32 kilograms) per bag for domestic flights. International flights may have different weight limits based on the route.
- Overweight/Oversize Fees: If your checked bag exceeds the weight or size limits, additional fees will apply. These fees can vary, so it’s best to check with American Airlines or review the specific fare rules for your ticket.
- Special Items and Sports Equipment:
- American Airlines allows the transportation of special items and sports equipment, such as musical instruments, fragile items, sports gear, and more. Additional fees or restrictions may apply, and it’s advisable to contact American Airlines directly or review their website for specific guidelines and fees related to these items.
Cost Share
Consider sharing a bag with a travel companion. By splitting a bag, you can divide the cost of the checked baggage fees.
American Airlines Credit Card
An American Airlines Credit Card can help save money on baggage fees by offering complimentary checked bags or reducing the cost of checked bags for cardholders.
- Free Checked Bags: Certain American Airlines Credit Cards provide cardholders with a benefit that allows them to check their first bag for free on American Airlines flights. This benefit often extends to a certain number of travel companions on the same reservation. By taking advantage of this perk, you can avoid paying the standard checked bag fee, which can add up if you frequently travel with checked luggage.
Some cards may have restrictions on the number of bags eligible for free checked baggage or the maximum weight allowed.
Additionally, the benefit is typically applicable only for flights operated by American Airlines and its affiliated partners, not on codeshare flights operated by other airlines.
We recommended reviewing the terms and conditions of the specific card or contact the card issuer directly. This way, you can determine the precise details and any limitations or exclusions that may apply.
Join AAdvantage – Frequent Flyer Program
AAdvantage, the frequent flyer program of American Airlines, offers its members the opportunity to save on baggage fees through elite status.
- Elite Status Benefits: AAdvantage program has different elite tiers, such as AAdvantage Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum. Members who achieve these elite status levels by earning a certain number of Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs) or Elite Qualifying Segments (EQSs) receive various benefits, including baggage fee waivers or reductions. The specific benefits vary depending on the elite status level:
- AAdvantage Gold: Gold members receive the first checked bag for free on domestic flights and select international flights.
- AAdvantage Platinum: Members at these elite levels receive the first two checked bags for free on domestic and select international flights.
- Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum: Members at these elite levels receive the first three checked bags for free on domestic and select international flights.
Ship Your Items
If you’re traveling with a lot of bags or oversized items, consider shipping them ahead of time. This may be more cost-effective than paying the baggage fees at the airport.
Conclusion
By understanding American Airlines’ baggage fees and restrictions, you can save money and reduce stress when packing for your next trip.
So, before you start packing, take some time to research your destination’s specific fees and regulations, and pack smartly to make the most of your travel experience!
American Airlines Baggage Fees FAQ’s
How much does American charge for baggage fees?
The baggage fees charged by American Airlines depend on several factors, such as your destination, the type of fare you purchased, your frequent flyer status, and the number and size of your bags.
For domestic flights within the US, including Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, you’ll pay $30 for your first checked bag, $40 for your second, and $150 for any additional bags. For international flights, fees can be much higher, with prices up to $75 for your first checked bag if you’re traveling to Europe or Asia.
How many bags does American Airlines allow for free?
Passengers flying on American Airlines are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge to every destination.
In some cases, you won’t have to pay the fees for up to 3 bags when traveling on itineraries marketed and operated by American Airlines.
Do you get a free checked bag with American Airlines?
Premium cabin passengers, elite members, and even co-branded credit card holders get free checked bags on American Airlines
