Understanding the American Airlines baggage policy before your trip can help you avoid extra fees and stressful surprises at the airport. This guide explains the 2025 rules for carry-on bags, checked luggage, domestic and international allowances, lost-bag procedures, and other essential details every traveler should know.
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What Is American Airlines Baggage Policy in 2025?
American Airlines allows each passenger one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Checked luggage is not automatically included on most basic and main-cabin fares. Fees vary depending on your route, cabin class, and destination. Weight and size limits apply to all bags.
American Airlines Carry-On Baggage Policy
Passengers may bring one carry-on bag up to 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 36 × 23 cm) including handles and wheels. One personal item, like a purse or laptop bag, must fit under the seat. If your carry-on exceeds size limits, it will be checked at the gate and may incur a fee.
American Airlines Cabin Baggage Policy
Cabin baggage includes all items you take onboard. Personal items, jackets, umbrellas, and small purchases are allowed. All liquids must follow the standard TSA 3-1-1 guidelines. Overstuffed bags that cannot fit properly may be rejected by gate staff.
American Airlines Domestic Baggage Policy
For domestic routes, the standard fee for checked luggage is $40 for the first checked bag (or $35 when prepaid online) and $45 for the second checked bag. These prices apply to flights within the continental U.S., Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The weight limit for economy is 50 lbs (23 kg).
Elite members, co-branded cardholders, and premium cabins may receive free checked bags as part of their benefits.
American Airlines International Baggage Policy
On most long-haul international flights, economy passengers receive one free checked bag, while premium cabins typically include two or more bags. For short-haul international destinations such as Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, checked-bag fees often match domestic prices. Always check your fare conditions, as baggage rules vary by ticket type.
American Airlines Baggage Policy 2025 Updates
American Airlines adjusted several baggage rules in 2025. Fees for short-haul international routes now align more closely with domestic rates. The airline also updated oversize and overweight fee structures and encourages passengers to prepay online to save money. Bag size and weight enforcement has become stricter at major hubs.
American Airlines Baggage Family Policy
While there is no special family-specific baggage allowance, families traveling with children can check strollers and car seats for free. Each passenger still follows the standard baggage fees and limits unless their fare or loyalty status offers added benefits.
American Airlines Lost Baggage Policy
If your bag is delayed or lost, report it immediately at the airport or online. American Airlines provides tracking updates and reimburses passengers for essential purchases while bags are delayed. If the airline declares your bag lost, it compensates you based on the documented value and the applicable limits. Always keep your receipts to speed up reimbursements.
Checked Bag Size and Weight Limits
Standard checked bags must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and must weigh no more than 50 lbs (23 kg) in economy. Premium cabins allow up to 70 lbs (32 kg) per bag. Airlines charge significant additional fees for oversize or overweight bags and may refuse them depending on the aircraft type.
Tips to Save on Baggage Fees
- Prepay luggage online before arriving at the airport
- Use an American Airlines credit card for free checked bags
- Pack strategically to avoid overweight penalties
- Ship heavy items in advance if possible
Store Your Bags Before Your American Airlines Flight
If you have a long layover, an early hotel checkout, or a late American Airlines departure, carrying luggage around can make your day stressful. Radical Storage offers secure and affordable luggage storage in hundreds of locations across major U.S. cities and airports. You can drop your bags at trusted local shops, hotels, and cafés, then explore the city freely before heading to the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Every passenger may bring one carry-on and one personal item for free.
Most long-haul international itineraries include one free checked bag.
Oversized carry-on bags must be checked and may incur a fee.
Yes, they can be checked at no cost for families traveling with children.
Pay online, measure your bags, and check your fare benefits before travel.
American Airlines Baggage Family Considerations
Families should arrive early to give themselves time to check strollers and car seats. Cabin crews may also help with onboard storage when available. Every passenger, including children with paid seats, receives their own carry-on and personal item allowance.
Final Thoughts
The American Airlines baggage policy in 2025 is straightforward once you understand the rules for carry-on items, checked bags, and international allowances. Always measure and weigh your luggage before heading to the airport and consider prepaying baggage fees online to save money. Whether you’re flying domestically or abroad, knowing these guidelines ensures a smoother travel experience.