American Airlines Baggage Restrictions: Your Comprehensive Guide

American Airlines Baggage Restrictions Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on American Airlines baggage restrictions. As a leading provider of travel luggage, we at Tripp understand the importance of knowing your airline's luggage rules. In this post, we'll break down everything you need to know about American Airlines' baggage restrictions, from carry-on bags and cabin cases to hold luggage.


Introduction To American Airlines

American Airlines, a cornerstone in the aviation industry, offers an expansive network connecting passengers to destinations worldwide. Renowned for its commitment to customer service and operational excellence, American Airlines has established itself as a preferred choice for both leisure and business travellers.

American Airlines has a rich history, and its innovative approach has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the global traveller. Founded in 1926, it has grown from a humble mail carrier to one of the world's largest airlines, serving millions of passengers annually. Its extensive route network spans across continents, offering flights to numerous destinations in the United States, Europe, Asia and beyond.

What sets American Airlines apart is not just its size, but its dedication to enhancing the travel experience. From modern, comfortable aircraft to a range of in-flight services, they strive to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. Their frequent flyer program, AAdvantage, is one of the most rewarding in the industry, offering numerous benefits and privileges to its members.

They are also at the forefront of technological advancements in aviation. Their user-friendly website and mobile app make booking flights, managing reservations and checking in a breeze. The airline's commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint is evident in its modern, fuel-efficient fleet and various eco-friendly initiatives.

As you prepare for your journey with American Airlines, understanding their baggage policies is crucial. This guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to navigate these policies with ease, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.


Understanding American Airlines Baggage Restrictions

Deciphering airline baggage policies can seem daunting, but we're here to simplify it for you. Let's delve into American Airlines' baggage restrictions, focusing on carry-on bags, cabin bags/cases and hold luggage.

American Airlines Carry-On Bags & Cabin Cases

When flying with American Airlines, each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag. This bag must not exceed the dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. It's crucial to ensure your carry-on bag meets these requirements to fit in the overhead bin and avoid any inconvenience during boarding. 

In addition to your carry-on bag, American Airlines allows you to bring one personal item. This item should fit under the seat in front of you and must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). Suitable items include a purse, a small handbag, or a laptop bag.

Tripp’s Recommendation

This is where Tripp's range of cabin bags comes into play. Our Lite 4W Cabin Suitcase is designed to maximise your packing space while fitting snugly in the overhead compartment. For your personal item, consider our Laptop Backpack, which is not only stylish but also practical, with ample space for all your travel essentials.


American Airlines Hold Luggage

American Airlines offers generous options for checked baggage, allowing you to check up to 10 bags on domestic, transatlantic, and transpacific flights and up to 5 bags on flights to, through, or from specific destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. However, it's important to note that there are seasonal and year-round bag restrictions for specific regions.

Weight and Size Limitations

When preparing your luggage for a flight with American Airlines, it's important to be mindful of their checked baggage size limitations. The airline calculates the size limits of your bag by adding the total outside dimensions of each bag, which includes its length, width and height.

For most regions, except when travelling to or from Australia or New Zealand, the checked baggage allowance for American Airlines has a dimensional limit of 62 inches or 158 cm and a weight limit of 50 pounds per bag. This means the combined length, width,and height of each checked bag must not exceed these dimensions. Staying within these size limits is crucial to ensure your baggage is accepted without any issues.

Bag Fees

All bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person at each check-in location, each way. It's important to be aware of these fees, especially if you're planning to travel with multiple bags or heavy luggage. For specific fee details, it's recommended to check American Airlines' official website or contact their customer service.

Special Considerations

When travelling to Cuba, each passenger may only check up to 2 bags with a maximum weight of 70 lbs (32 kgs) per bag, in addition to their carry-on bag and personal item. Seasonal exceptions may apply, especially for travel to Havana.

Tripp's Recommendation

For your checked baggage needs, Tripp offers a range of robust, spacious suitcases designed to comply with airline regulations. Our top picks include our Holiday 7 collection and Escape medium cases. Both options provide ample space for your belongings and are built to withstand the rigours of air travel, ensuring that your items are secure and well-protected throughout your journey.


Additional Paid Extras

For those needing more than the standard allowance, American Airlines offers options for additional, overweight, and oversized baggage, though these come with additional fees. To avoid higher charges at the airport, it's wise to pre-book these extras.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help you further, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about American Airline's baggage restrictions.


What is the baggage allowance on American Airlines?

Typically, American Airlines permits one carry-on bag, one personal item, and up to 2 checked bags, adhering to specific size and weight limits


How much does American Airlines charge for international baggage?

Charges vary based on routes and ticket types. For accurate fees, refer to American Airlines' official website or contact them directly.


What is the carry-on size for American Airlines?

The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56cm x 36cm x 23cm)


How many bags can I take on American Airlines for free?

You are usually allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Checked baggage allowance depends on your ticket type and destination.


What are the rules for checked bags?

Checked bags must not exceed 62 inches (combined) and 50 pounds, with fees applicable for additional, overweight, or oversized baggage.


Embark On Your Journey With Confidence

Travelling with American Airlines becomes a seamless experience when you're well-informed about their baggage policies. With Tripp's range of suitcases and bags, you can explore in style and confidence, knowing that your luggage aligns perfectly with airline regulations. Explore all of our collections and find the perfect travel companion for your next adventure!


Embark On Your Tripp Travels

Image by @carlastravels_ via Instagram

Image by @houseofcolour_sandylancaster via Instagram


Posted by Emma Smith
3rd January 2024

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