How Much Does American Airlines Charge for Baggage?
Understanding baggage fees is crucial for stress-free travel. American Airlines (AA) offers varied charges depending on your route, baggage type, and fare class. Here, we are provides the costs for domestic, international, checked, overweight, and extra baggage, ensuring you’re prepared for your next trip.
How Much Does American Airlines Charge for Domestic Baggage?
For U.S. domestic flights (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands):
- First Checked Bag: $35 (online) / $40 (airport).
- Second Checked Bag: $45 (online or airport).
- Additional Bags: $150+ each.
Overweight/Oversized Fees:
- 50–70 lbs: $100.
- 70–100 lbs: $200.
- Oversized (62+ inches): $150–$200.
Carry-ons are free for most fares, except Basic Economy (personal item only).
How Much Does American Airlines Charge for International Baggage?
Fees vary by destination. Examples:
- Europe/Main Cabin: 1st bag free (50 lbs), 2nd bag $65.
- Asia/Argentina: Allowances differ; check AA’s website.
Overweight/Oversized: Similar to domestic fees, but confirm region-specific rules.
Basic Economy on international routes includes a free carry-on.
How Much Does American Airlines Charge for Checked Baggage?
Checked baggage fees depend on your route:
- Domestic: $35–$45 for first two bags.
- International: Varies (some include free bags).
Premium cabins (Business/First) often include free checked bags.
How Much Does American Airlines Charge for Overweight Baggage?
- 50–70 lbs: $100 (domestic/international).
- 70–100 lbs: $200.
Fees apply per bag and are added to standard charges.
How Much Does American Airlines Charge for Extra Baggage?
- Domestic: $150+ for third+ bags.
- International: $200+ depending on destination.
Special Items and Sports Equipment to Allow in American Airlines
American Airlines allows sports equipment and musical instruments as checked or carry-on items, subject to standard baggage fees and size/weight limits:
- Golf Bags/Skis/Bikes: Treated as regular checked bags if under 50 lbs and 62 inches. Excess fees apply for overweight/oversized items.
- Surfboards/Windsurfers: Up to 2 boards per bag (max 50 lbs); $150 oversize fee if over 62 inches.
- Musical Instruments: Allowed as carry-ons if they fit in overhead bins. Larger instruments require a seat purchase.
American Airlines Carry-On Baggage Policies
- Main Cabin/Premium Fares: 1 free carry-on (22 x 14 x 9 inches) + 1 personal item (purse/laptop).
- Basic Economy (Domestic): Personal item only (18 x 14 x 8 inches). Exception: Basic Economy transatlantic/international flights include a free carry-on.
American Airlines Baggage Allowances by Fare Class
| Fare Class | Checked Bags Included |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | None (purchase separately) |
| Main Cabin | None (domestic); 1 free (select international) |
| Premium Economy | 2 free (70 lbs each) |
| Business/First Class | 2–3 free (70 lbs each) |
Note: AAdvantage elites, credit cardholders (e.g., Citi®/AAdvantage®), and Oneworld Alliance members often receive extra free bags.
American Airlines Military and Special Exemptions
- Active U.S. Military: 5 free checked bags (up to 100 lbs each) on active-duty orders.
- Dependents/Retirees: 1–2 free bags, depending on route.
- Infant Items: Strollers/car seats fly free.
American Airlines Regional International Baggage Variations
Fees and allowances vary by destination. Key examples:
- Mexico/Caribbean: 1st bag $35, 2nd bag $45.
- South America (Brazil/Argentina): 1st bag free (50 lbs), 2nd bag $65.
- Australia/New Zealand: 1st bag free (70 lbs), 2nd bag $85.
Always check AA’s “Baggage Calculator” for route-specific rules.
Oversized + Overweight Baggage: American Airlines Combined Fees
If a bag exceeds both weight and size limits, both fees apply:
- Example: A 75-lb, 65-inch bag = $200 (overweight) + $150 (oversized) = $350 total.
American Airlines Payment Methods and Prepayment Discounts
- Online Prepayment: Save $5 per bag during check-in (domestic flights).
- Airport Kiosks/Counters: Higher fees; cash not accepted for baggage payments.
- Credit Card Benefits: Cards like the AAdvantage® Aviator Silver grant 1st checked bag free.
Conclusion
American Airlines baggage fees vary by destination, weight, and fare type. Always verify your baggage allowance on American Airlines official website before flying. Pack smart, leverage loyalty perks, and enjoy a seamless journey!
Some Terminal of American Airlines Baggage Counter
- American Airlines ABE Terminal – Lehigh Valley International Airport
- American Airlines ABQ Terminal – Albuquerque International Sunport
- American Airlines ABV Terminal – Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport
- American Airlines ACA Terminal – General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport
- American Airlines ACC Terminal – Kotoka International Airport
- American Airlines AFW Terminal – Fort Worth Alliance Airport
- American Airlines AGP Terminal – Málaga Airport
- American Airlines AGS Terminal – Augusta Regional Airport
FAQs on American Airlines Charge for Baggage
Domestic: $35; international fees vary.
No, one carry-on and one personal item are free.
Domestic: $45; international fees vary.
Yes: $100–$200 depending on weight/size.
No, fees apply: $35 for the first bag domestically.
Yes, prepaying online saves $5–$10 per bag.
Yes, AAdvantage elite members get free bags.
Varies by route: $0–$75 for the first bag.
One free checked bag and stroller for infants.
Use carry-ons, book higher fares, or have elite status.
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