How Much Are American Airlines Baggage Fees? (Updated 2025 Guide)

Introduction: Why Baggage Fees Matter for American Airlines Travelers

For millions of passengers flying each year, American Airlines baggage fees are one of the most important cost factors beyond the ticket price. Since American is one of the largest carriers in the world, understanding its baggage rules can save you anywhere from $35 to hundreds of dollars per trip.

Whether you’re flying domestically, internationally, or with a special fare, American Airlines charges vary based on route, class, and status. Add in elite benefits, credit card perks, and online discounts, and the fee structure can feel overwhelming.

This 2025 guide breaks down:

• Standard American Airlines checked bag fees (domestic & international)
• Carry-on rules and size limits
• Who qualifies for free checked bags
• Extra charges for oversize/overweight luggage
• Pro tips to avoid or reduce baggage costs

Let’s dive into the latest American Airlines baggage policy and what it means for your next trip.

Quick Snapshot: American Airlines Checked Bag Fees

Here’s a summary table of the most common American Airlines checked bag fees (one-way, per person):

Tip: Always check your booking confirmation — exact fees depend on route, cabin, and booking class.

American Airlines Carry-On Rules (Size & Allowance)

One of the best parts of the American Airlines baggage policy is that carry-ons remain free for all passengers.

• Allowance: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item
• Carry-On Size Limit: 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels/handles
• Personal Item: Must fit under the seat (like a backpack, laptop bag, or purse)

Even Basic Economy fares allow carry-ons, but overhead space is limited, so bags may be gate-checked if bins fill up.

American Airlines Baggage Policy: Standard Limits

Before we go deeper into fees, here’s what qualifies as a standard checked bag:

• Weight Limit (Economy): 50 lbs (23 kg)
• Weight Limit (Business/First): 70 lbs (32 kg)
• Size Limit: 62 linear inches (L + W + H combined)

Exceeding these limits triggers additional charges.

Standard Checked Bag Fees by Route

Domestic Flights (U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands)

• First bag: $40 ($35 if prepaid online)
• Second bag: $45
• Third bag: $150
• Fourth bag or more: $200 each

Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America

• First bag: $35
• Second bag: $45
• Third bag: $150
• Fourth bag or more: $200

Panama Routes

• First bag: Free (except Basic Economy)
• Second bag: $45

Europe (Transatlantic)

• First bag: Often free (depending on fare)
• Second bag: $100+
• Additional bags: $200 each

South America & Asia

• First bag: Free (most fares)
• Second bag: $100–$150
• Extra bags: $200+

Who Gets Free Checked Bags on American Airlines?

You may not need to pay baggage fees at all if you qualify for one of these categories:

• Premium Cabin Travelers: First Class, Business Class, and Premium Economy include 2 free checked bags.
• AAdvantage Elite Members:
  • Gold → 1 free bag
  • Platinum → 2 free bags
  • Executive Platinum → 3 free bags
• Oneworld Alliance Elites: Sapphire & Emerald members get at least 1 free bag.
• Credit Card Holders: Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® and AAdvantage® Aviator® Red → first bag free for you + companions.
• Military Personnel: Active-duty military and dependents get free checked bags (number varies by orders).

American Airlines Extra Baggage Fees (Oversize & Overweight)

If your luggage exceeds standard limits, expect steep surcharges:

• Overweight Bags:
  • 51–70 lbs: $100
  • 71–100 lbs: $200+
• Oversized Bags:
  • 63–126 inches: $150–$200
  • Over 126 inches: Not accepted
• Overweight + Oversize: Fees stack (can reach $400+ per bag).

Pro Tip: Weigh your bags at home to avoid expensive surprises.

How to Avoid or Reduce American Airlines Baggage Fees

Even with higher airline costs, travelers have several ways to cut down on American Airlines baggage fees. Below are proven strategies that save money while keeping your trip stress-free:

Pay for Bags Online in Advance

Booking your bags ahead of time through the AA website or mobile app saves $5 per bag on domestic flights. It’s also faster at check-in, reducing airport stress.

Use an AAdvantage® Credit Card

Eligible cards like the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® or AAdvantage® Aviator® Red let you check your first bag free. The benefit usually extends to companions, which means real savings for families.

Earn Elite Status in AAdvantage®

Flying often? AAdvantage Gold, Platinum, and Executive Platinum tiers grant 1–3 free bags per ticket. For frequent flyers, this adds up to hundreds in yearly savings.

Upgrade to Premium Cabins

Business, First Class, and Premium Economy fares automatically include at least two free checked bags. On longer flights, the upgrade cost may be lower than paying separate bag fees.

Pack Smarter & Stay Under 50 lbs

The American’s weight limit is 50 lbs per bag in Economy. Investing in a simple luggage scale lets you redistribute weight at home, avoiding costly overweight surcharges.

Maximize Free Carry-Ons

Every traveler gets 1 carry-on (22x14x9 in) and 1 personal item free. Using a roller suitcase and a roomy backpack can eliminate the need for checked luggage altogether.

Use Packing Tools

Compression bags and packing cubes help fit more in your carry-on or personal item. This small investment can reduce or even eliminate checked baggage costs.

Edge Cases Travelers Should Know

Not all baggage fees are straightforward. Keep these in mind:

• Codeshare Flights: If your AA flight is operated by a partner (like British Airways), baggage rules may differ.
• Old Tickets: If booked before a fee update, original baggage terms apply — unless you change the ticket.
• Refunds on Prepaid Bags: If you later qualify for free bags (via upgrade/status), refunds aren’t automatic — you must request them.
• Gate-Check Surprises: Crowded cabins = more gate-checking. If your carry-on doesn’t meet American Airlines carry-on size rules, you may still pay checked fees.

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on American Airlines Baggage Fees

The new American Airlines baggage fee structure means most U.S. travelers will pay $35–$40 for the first bag and $45 for the second. International routes vary, with many still including at least one free bag.

To save money: prepay online, hold an AAdvantage® credit card, fly premium cabins, or maximize carry-ons.

Knowing the American Airlines baggage policy before you fly ensures you’re never caught off guard — and saves your wallet from unnecessary fees.