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How Much Does American Airlines Charge for International Baggage in 2025?

By flightshelpcenter

Published on September 22, 2025

When planning an international trip, airfare isn’t your only major expense—baggage fees can quickly add up if you’re not careful. Many travelers flying with American Airlines ask the same question: How much does American Airlines charge for international baggage?

The answer depends on your route, cabin class, and ticket type. While some fares include free bags, others may charge up to $200 per piece for oversized or additional luggage. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about American Airlines international baggage fees in 2025, so you can budget smarter, avoid surprises at the airport, and even find ways to save.

Quick Summary: American Airlines International Baggage Fees (2025)

Planning an overseas trip with American Airlines? International baggage fees can vary widely depending on your route, fare type, and cabin class. Here’s what you need to know at a glance:

Economy Class: Most international routes include the first checked bag for free. The second bag usually costs $100–$150, depending on the destination.
Basic Economy: Less flexible and often excludes baggage. Expect to pay around $75+ for your first checked bag and standard international rates for additional bags.
Premium Economy: Generally includes two free checked bags, making it a strong value for long-haul travelers.
Business & First Class: These cabins typically come with two to three free bags, with exact allowances depending on the route.
Oversize & Overweight Bags: Any bag over 50 lbs (23 kg) or larger than 62 linear inches may be subject to fees between $100 and $200.

✈️ Tip: Travelers to Europe, Asia, South America, Canada, and Mexico may see slightly different charges, so always confirm based on your route. Prepaying online can save up to $10 per bag.

👉 Need help with American Airlines international baggage fees? Call +1-866-558-3017 for live assistance before your flight.

Difference Between Domestic & International Baggage Fees

On domestic U.S. flights, American Airlines typically charges for the first and second checked bags:

First bag: $40 ($35 if prepaid online).
Second bag: $45.

On international flights, the picture is different:

Many routes include one free checked bag in Main Cabin fares.
Additional bags cost more—sometimes $100 or more per piece.

👉 In short: domestic = always pay for the first bag. International = often one free bag, depending on destination and fare.

American Airlines International Baggage Fees by Route

International baggage fees vary depending on where you’re flying. Here’s a breakdown:

Flights to Europe:
- 1st bag: Free (most fares)
- 2nd bag: ~$100
- Oversized/overweight: $150–$200
Flights to South America:
- 1st bag: Free (most routes)
- 2nd bag: $100–$150
- Some destinations may allow 2 free bags in Premium Economy or higher
Flights to Asia:
- 1st & sometimes 2nd bag: Free (depending on fare/cabin)
- Overweight strictly enforced (50 lbs / 23 kg max for Economy)
Flights to Canada & Mexico:
- 1st bag: Free for Main Cabin (Basic Economy may pay $35–$75)
- 2nd bag: ~$65–$100

📌 Reminder: Fees vary by route. Always check your itinerary in the “Baggage Calculator” on the American Airlines website before traveling.

Baggage Fees by Cabin Class

Your cabin class determines whether you pay baggage fees or enjoy complimentary allowances.

Basic Economy:
- No free bags included on most international routes
- 1st bag ~$75+
- Additional bags at international rates
Main Cabin (Economy):
- 1st bag often free
- 2nd bag ~$100–$150
Premium Economy:
- 2 free checked bags on most long-haul routes
Business Class:
- 2–3 free bags depending on destination
First Class:
- Typically 3 free checked bags

👉 Upgrading your ticket—even to Premium Economy—can save on baggage costs if you plan to check more than one bag.

Oversized & Overweight Baggage on International Flights

American Airlines enforces strict rules for oversized and overweight bags:

Overweight bags:
- 51–70 lbs (23–32 kg): $100–$200
- 71–100 lbs (33–45 kg): $200+ (not accepted on all routes)
Oversized bags:
- More than 62 linear inches (length + width + height) = $150–$200
Both oversized & overweight:
- You’ll pay both fees combined.

⚠️ Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) are not accepted.

Special Items & Sports Equipment

American Airlines allows a variety of special items, but most incur fees similar to oversized baggage:

Musical instruments: Small ones may be carried on if they fit in overhead bins. Larger ones may require a seat purchase or oversize fee.
Sports equipment: Golf bags, skis, surfboards, and bicycles generally cost $100–$200 each, depending on weight and size.

✈️ Tip: Always pre-notify American Airlines if traveling with special equipment.

How to Save on International Baggage Fees

Baggage costs can eat into your budget quickly, but here are smart ways to cut costs:

Prepay Online: Save $5–$10 per bag compared to paying at the airport.
AAdvantage Status: Elite members often get 1–2 free checked bags even in Economy.
AA Co-Branded Credit Cards: Cards like Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® offer a free checked bag for the cardholder and companions.
Pack Smart: Use compression bags and luggage scales to avoid overweight fees.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepay Baggage Fees Online

Visit aa.com.
Select “Manage Trips” and enter your booking details.
Choose “Add Bags” and prepay your baggage fees.
Save your confirmation.
👉 You’ll save up to $10 per bag and shorten your airport check-in time.

Conclusion

So, how much does American Airlines charge for international baggage? The short answer: anywhere from $0 to $500+, depending on your route, cabin class, and number of bags.