What does the American Airlines baggage allowance mean?

An important part of a stress-free journey is understanding the rules and fees for goods. American Airlines goods rules are directly, but vary significantly based on your ticket type, destination and travel class. Knowing these details in advance can help you avoid unexpected fees at the airport. 

The American Airlines baggage allowance refers to the number of bags you can bring, as well as maximum size and weight for both carry-on and checked goods. This allowance is not a size-fit-all policy; It depends on factors such as your fare class (eg, infrastructure, main cabin, business class), your AAdvantage loyalty status and your flight destination.

How many bags does American Airlines allow for free?

American Airlines allows a carry-on bag and an individual item for free on all flights, with some exceptions to the rent of some basic economy, for all travelers. However, the number of free check bags vary widely: 

• Domestic flights: For most domestic routes, a fee is charged for the first checked bags, unless you have an AAdvantage Credit Card or Elite Status.
• International flights: Many international flights, especially for Europe, Asia and South America, include one or more free check bags, even for basic fare.

What is the baggage weight limit for domestic flights in the USA?

The United States has standard goods weight range of 50 pounds (23 kg) per check bag for domestic flights. However, for passengers traveling in business or first class, the allowance increases to 70 pounds (32 kg) per bag. Bags exceeding these boundaries will receive a fee, and items above 100 pounds (45 kg) are commonly not accepted as a check.

Read Also: All Nippon airways baggage policy

How much luggage is allowed on an international flight with American Airlines?

The luggage allowance on an international flight with American Airlines depends on your destination and class of service. 

• Main cabin: Often one or two free check bags are included up to 50 pounds (23 kg).
• Premium economy: Usually each contains two checked bags up to 50 pounds (23 kg).
• Business and first class: Typically, two or three checked bags are included, with 70 pounds (32 kg) per bag range.

It is always best to check your specific journey on the American Airlines website to confirm your exact allowance, as some routes and promotional fares may have different rules.

Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on on American Airlines?

Yes, you can bring both a backpack and carry-on. American Airlines allows every passenger to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item. A backpack can serve as your carry-on bag or your personal items, depending on its size. 

• Carrie-on Bag: Overhead bin should be fit. The maximum dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inch (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
• Personal items: You should fit below the seat in front of you. The quite small backpack for this purpose is qualified as an individual item.

What is the maximum weight of a carry-on bag for American Airlines?

While American Airlines does not apply a specific weight limit to carry-on bags on most flights, they have a size restriction. Your carry-on bag should fit in overhead bin and lighten it for you to lift it in bin without help. For most international flights, there is a weight range of 18 kg (40 pounds). However, the general guidelines are to ensure that it meets the size and is manageable.