How much for luggage on american airlines

Standard domestic itineraries on AA list a $30 charge for the first checked piece and $40 for the second when purchased ahead via the website or mobile app. Basic Economy includes a personal item only; carry-on is not included. Main Cabin, Premium Economy and premium cabins include one carry-on at no extra charge with the ticket.

Size and weight limits: checked pieces must not exceed 62 linear inches (158 cm). Weight limit is 50 lb (23 kg) in Economy; many premium cabins permit up to 70 lb (32 kg). Overweight surcharges typically kick in at 51–100 lb and again at 101–150 lb, with common penalties near $100 and $200 respectively. Oversize fees apply when linear dimensions exceed 62 in; expect surcharges in the $150–$200 range depending on excess size.

Practical steps to avoid surprises: prepay checked pieces online to skip higher kiosk or counter charges and speed up boarding. Holders of co-branded credit cards, military travelers and elite-status members often receive one or more complimentary checked pieces. International routes and premium fare classes can have different allowances and fees; verify the exact policy on the AA mobile app or booking confirmation before departure.

AA checked and carry-on charges

Pay $30 – first checked bag on most domestic Main Cabin; $40 – second checked bag; third checked bag commonly $150.

Domestic fees – quick reference

Carry-on allowance: one full-size cabin bag plus one personal item with Main Cabin and higher. Basic Economy: personal item only on many domestic itineraries.

Carry-on max dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels. Checked bag max size without oversize penalty: 62 linear in (158 cm). Standard checked bag weight limit in economy: 50 lb (23 kg); premium cabin checked allowance often up to 70 lb (32 kg).

Overweight fees: 51–100 lb (23–45 kg) – $100; heavier pieces incur larger surcharges. Oversize fee: pieces exceeding 62 linear in (158 cm) – commonly $150. Prepay online during booking or web/mobile check-in to avoid higher counter rates.

Ways to avoid extra charges

AAdvantage elite tiers grant complimentary checked bags: lower tiers usually receive one, mid tiers two, top tiers three. AAdvantage-branded consumer credit cards often waive the first checked-bag fee; the benefit typically applies to the cardholder plus eligible companions on the same reservation.

Pack to the airline’s weight and size limits, weigh bags at home, use soft-sided carry cases to squeeze into size, consolidate items into one bag when possible, and buy checked-bag allowance at booking time when discounted pricing appears.

Domestic checked bag fees: first and second bag prices and Basic Economy rules

$30 first checked bag; $40 second checked bag on domestic itineraries. Overweight 51–70 lb $100; 71–100 lb $200; oversize (length+width+height > 62 in) $200; pieces over 100 lb not accepted.

Basic Economy fares exclude complimentary checked bags; passengers must buy checked pieces at booking, during online check-in, or at the airport at standard rates, though airport purchases can carry an added fee and slower processing. Basic Economy typically assigns later boarding groups and restricts ticket changes and upgrades.

Save by prepaying at booking or during online check-in and weighing bags at home to avoid overweight charges. Use a carry-on-friendly pack to avoid checked-piece fees – consider best running waist pack waterproof, ideal small electronics and liquids; pack a compact umbrella such as best rain protection umbrella; place heavy items near the wheelbase, mark fragile items, and lock zippers with TSA-approved locks.

International checked baggage: free allowance by region and per-piece fees

Purchase a fare that includes at least one checked piece on transatlantic and transpacific sectors to avoid per-piece charges.

Regional allowances

North America ↔ Europe – Main Cabin normally includes one checked piece up to 23 kg (50 lb) and 158 cm (62 in) linear dimensions. Basic Economy excludes a checked piece. Business and First usually include two pieces up to 32 kg (70 lb) each.

North America ↔ Asia/Pacific – Main Cabin generally permits one checked piece 23 kg (50 lb); Premium Economy and Business commonly allow two pieces, with weight limits depending on cabin and route. Specific countries such as Japan, Korea, India may carry route-specific rules printed on the ticket.

North America ↔ Central and South America – Many itineraries include one free checked piece; some Brazil and Argentina routings grant two pieces in Economy. Size and weight limits match transatlantic standards unless stated otherwise on the itinerary.

North America ↔ Caribbean and Mexico – Short international sectors often follow a domestic-style fee structure: Main Cabin fares can either include a checked piece or charge per piece depending on fare type. Basic Economy excludes a checked piece.

Per-piece fees, overweight and oversize

Per-piece charges when an allowance is not included commonly fall into these ranges: first checked piece USD 30–100 on short-haul international sectors and USD 60–100 on long-haul markets; second piece USD 100–300 depending on route. Counter and gate rates are typically higher than online pre-purchase prices.

Overweight surcharges apply by weight band: 23–32 kg (50–70 lb) commonly USD 100–200; 32–45 kg (70–100 lb) commonly USD 200–400 or may require cargo handling. Oversize surcharges apply to bags between 158–203 cm (62–80 in) linear, typically USD 100–200; items exceeding 203 cm often need special handling or cargo routing.

Surcharges stack: an extra piece fee combines with any applicable overweight and oversize charges. Sporting equipment and musical instruments can have separate checked-item allowances or fees listed in the contract of carriage.

Recommendation: confirm the allowance shown on the itinerary, purchase checked-piece allowance during booking when available, weigh and measure bags at home to avoid airport surprises, and consider a fare upgrade or premium cabin when two checked pieces are required.

Overweight & Oversize: weight, size limits and exact fees

Expect a $100 surcharge on checked items weighing 51–70 lb (23–32 kg) and $200 on 71–100 lb (32–45 kg).

Maximum accepted as checked: 100 lb (45 kg) and 115 linear inches (292 cm). Items above those limits must travel as cargo or may be refused at drop-off.

Domestic

Overweight charges: $100 (51–70 lb / 23–32 kg); $200 (71–100 lb / 32–45 kg). Oversize charge: $200 per piece when linear dimensions exceed 62 in (157 cm) up to 115 in (292 cm). A bag that is both overweight and oversize is assessed both surcharges (example: 75 lb and 65 in = $200 overweight + $200 oversize = $400 at the counter).

International and transborder

Most regions use the same weight bands: $100 (51–70 lb) and $200 (71–100 lb). Oversize fee: $200 per piece when linear dimensions exceed 62 in (157 cm) up to 115 in (292 cm). On itineraries with per-piece allowances these surcharges apply at check-in; on weight-allowance itineraries (common on some long-haul routes) fee application can differ–verify the ticketed allowance.

Practical advice: weigh and measure at home; calculate length+width+height; pack to keep each checked item at or below 50 lb (23 kg) and 62 linear inches (157 cm) to avoid additional charges. If a bag exceeds limits, split contents into a second bag or ship excess via courier to reduce counter fees.

Carry-on allowance and exceptions: Basic Economy and paid carry-on purchases

If booked in Basic Economy, purchase carry-on access prior to reaching the airport to secure overhead-bin room and avoid higher gate charges.

Personal item allowance: typically a single item sized about 18.5 x 14.5 x 8 in (45 x 35 x 20 cm) that must fit under the seat. Standard overhead cabin bag: up to 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm). Weight rules: most domestic sectors have no carry-on weight limit; some international sectors limit carry-on to roughly 7–10 kg. Confirm the exact limits on the reservation page tied to the specific flight.

Common exceptions to Basic Economy carry-on restriction: active-duty military, members with elite status who retain main-cabin privileges, passengers whose fare class or itinerary already includes overhead access, and corporate or group agreements that specify carry-on allowance. Carry-on entitlement granted by exceptions applies only when that status or benefit is linked to the ticket at time of boarding.

Purchase options and timing matter. Add carry-on during booking or via Manage Reservations or the carrier mobile app to get the lowest price and avoid denial at boarding. Airport counter or gate purchases are available but often cost more and do not guarantee bin space if the cabin is full; agents may gate-check purchased bags.

Packing tips: place valuables and travel documents inside the personal item; have a compact toiletry bag and shoes strapped to the interior if space tight. If a bag gets gate-checked, keep electronics and medications in the personal item. Practical cleaning guidance and care for small items can be found here: how to clean a foot scrubber.

Fee waivers: AAdvantage status, co-branded cards and military travel

Use AAdvantage elite status to waive first checked-bag fees on eligible reservations.

AAdvantage elite status and co-branded cards

• Elite tiers and typical checked-bag waivers:

  • Gold: 1 free checked bag on domestic itineraries; standard piece weight 50 lb (23 kg).
  • Platinum: 2 free checked bags on many published itineraries; standard piece weight 50 lb (23 kg).
  • Platinum Pro: 3 free checked bags on many published itineraries; standard piece weight 50 lb (23 kg).
  • Executive Platinum: 3 free checked bags plus priority handling; higher weight allowance (up to 70 lb / 32 kg) may apply on select international routings depending on fare class.

• Co-branded credit-card perks and activation steps:

  • Most AAdvantage consumer and business cards waive first checked-bag fees: primary cardholder plus up to four companions on the same reservation and flight.
  • Add the card account number to the reservation at booking or present the physical card and matching photo ID at check-in when the trip begins.
  • If the waiver fails to appear on the itinerary, contact reservations or ask at the check-in counter prior to bag drop; keep the card and boarding pass until the waiver posts on the account statement.
  • Review issuer terms for additional perks such as priority boarding, statement credits and travel credits that can offset other bag-related charges.

Military travel

• Active-duty U.S. military traveling on official orders receive expanded checked-item allowances: up to five checked items free on many itineraries; standard maximum weight 70 lb (32 kg) per piece and maximum dimensions 62 in (158 cm) linear.
• Dependents listed on official orders normally receive the same allowance when traveling on the same itinerary; unaccompanied dependents should carry copies of orders and identification at check-in.
• Present military ID and official travel orders at check-in; if excess, oversize or overweight items are necessary, contact reservations or the military travel office in advance to secure space and any applicable waivers.

Paying and managing baggage fees: prepay online, at check-in, and refund policies

Prepay checked bags via AA.com or the mobile app to lock in online rates and skip the counter.

• Prepay online
  • When booking: add checked pieces at checkout; payment attaches directly to the reservation.
  • After booking: open Manage Trips, select Passenger, Add Bags, complete payment using card or stored wallet.
  • Mobile check-in: same Add Bags flow available up to departure; save the confirmation email and transaction ID.
• At the airport
  • Self-service kiosks: scan boarding pass, add paid pieces, print bag tags; pay by credit or debit.
  • Ticket counter: accept card payments and cash at some locations; allow extra time during peak hours.
  • Gate agents: last-resort option when kiosks and counters are closed; expect longer handling time.
• Payment methods and receipts
  • Accepted: major credit/debit cards and the carrier’s gift card balance when available.
  • Always save the electronic receipt, payment transaction ID, and the paper bag tag number; photograph tags at drop-off.
  • If using an AAdvantage co-branded card, enter the AAdvantage number during payment to apply any cardholder benefit automatically.
• When to prepay
  • Best practice: add bags during booking or at least during online check-in to avoid higher airport rates and queues.
  • If plans change, add pieces to the reservation instead of paying at the counter to reduce processing time at drop-off.
• Refund eligibility and submission
  • Refunds issued to the original payment method when eligible (examples: flight canceled by the carrier, duplicate charge, or bags paid but not used due to schedule change).
  • To submit a refund request: use Manage Trips transaction history, contact Reservations, or open a customer relations case; include booking reference, payment receipt, and bag tag images.
  • Typical processing window: allow 7–20 business days for card refunds; if delayed, contact the issuing bank after 30 days.
• Disputes and credit handling
  • If a prepaid charge is incorrect, do not initiate an immediate chargeback; first submit documentation to customer relations to expedite reversal.
  • When a refund is issued as travel credit, check Manage Trips or the wallet section to view the credit code and expiration date; apply credit at booking checkout.
• Documentation to keep
  • Booking reference, payment receipt, bag tag number, boarding pass, photographs of tags and damaged bags when applicable.
  • File claims and refund requests within 30 days of travel date when possible to speed outcome.

FAQ:

How much does American Airlines charge for the first and second checked bag on domestic flights?

The standard fees for Main Cabin fares on U.S., Canada and Caribbean routes are typically $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second. Each checked bag must meet size and weight limits — usually no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 50 lb (23 kg) for most economy fares. Bags that exceed the size or weight limits will incur additional charges. These fees can vary by route, ticket type and purchase timing, so verify the current amounts on your reservation before you travel.

Are carry-on bags included with Basic Economy on American Airlines?

Basic Economy fares often come with tighter baggage rules than Main Cabin tickets. Many Basic Economy tickets only include a personal item that fits under the seat; a full-sized carry-on may not be allowed unless you upgrade your fare or pay a fee. If you arrive at the gate with a carry-on that is not permitted on your fare, you will likely be asked to check it and pay the applicable checked-bag charge, which can be higher at the airport than when purchased online. Carry-on maximums on American Airlines are usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels) and one personal item must fit under the seat.

How can I get checked baggage waived or included for free on American Airlines?

There are several common ways to avoid checked-bag fees: 1) Hold an AAdvantage elite status level — many elite tiers provide one or more free checked bags on domestic itineraries. 2) Book premium cabins (First or Business) or certain premium economy fares that include checked bags in the ticket price. 3) Use an American Airlines co-branded credit card; many consumer and business AAdvantage cards offer the first checked bag free for the primary cardholder and up to companions on the same reservation. 4) Some international itineraries include complimentary checked allowances depending on route and fare class. 5) Active U.S. military travelers frequently receive baggage allowances and fee waivers. Terms and the number of free bags differ by status level, card product and route, so consult your account benefits or the airline’s baggage page for exact details.

What are the rules and extra charges for oversized, overweight, or specialty items like bicycles and musical instruments?

American Airlines applies extra fees when a checked item exceeds standard size or weight limits. Typical thresholds and additional charges are: – Size: Items over 62 linear inches (158 cm) are considered oversized and generally incur an oversize fee (often around $150). Items beyond a very large limit may not be accepted. – Weight: Standard checked-bag weight limit for economy is usually 50 lb (23 kg). Bags between 51–70 lb (23–32 kg) often carry an overweight fee (commonly about $100); bags between 71–100 lb (32–45 kg) are charged a higher overweight fee (commonly about $200). Specialty equipment rules vary by type: bicycles normally count as one checked bag but must be partially disassembled and boxed or in a bike bag; ski and snowboard equipment typically count as one checked bag and may follow the standard fee schedule; oversized musical instruments that do not fit as carry-on may be treated as checked baggage with applicable oversize/overweight fees. For fragile or high-value instruments, consider purchasing a second seat or arranging shipment via cargo. Because allowances and charges differ by route and can change, inspect item rules for your specific flight and purchase any necessary excess-baggage options before arriving at the airport.