How Much Can A Bag Weigh On American Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

Are you planning a trip with American Airlines and wondering how much your bag can weigh? Well, you’ve come to the right place! As one of the major airlines in the United States, American Airlines has specific rules and regulations when it comes to baggage weight and size.

In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about American Airlines’ baggage policy. From the maximum weight and size of your checked and carry-on bags to the fees associated with excess baggage, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and make sure you’re well-prepared for your next flight with American Airlines!

How Much Can a Bag Weigh on American Airlines?

How Much Can a Bag Weigh on American Airlines?

American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. One of the most important things to know before flying is the baggage policies of the airline. This article provides detailed information about how much a bag can weigh on American Airlines.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Carry-on baggage is the luggage that you can bring with you on the plane and keep with you during the flight. American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. The carry-on bag should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) and must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. The personal item should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, such as a purse, laptop bag, or backpack.

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The weight limit for carry-on bags on American Airlines is not specified. However, you must be able to lift your carry-on bag into the overhead bin without assistance. If your bag is too heavy, you may be asked to check it in.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Checked baggage is the luggage that you hand over to the airline staff at the check-in counter and collect at the baggage claim area upon arrival. American Airlines allows up to 10 checked bags per passenger, with a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag.

If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you will be charged an overweight baggage fee. The fee for bags weighing between 51-70 pounds (23-32 kg) is $100 per bag, while bags weighing between 71-100 pounds (32-45 kg) will cost you $200 per bag. Bags weighing more than 100 pounds (45 kg) are not allowed on American Airlines flights.

Oversized Baggage Allowance

Oversized baggage is the luggage that exceeds the standard size limit of checked baggage. American Airlines allows oversized bags with a maximum size of 126 inches (320 cm) and a maximum weight of 100 pounds (45 kg). Oversized bags will incur an additional fee of $200 per bag.

If your bag is both oversized and overweight, you will be charged both fees, totaling $400 per bag. It is recommended that you contact American Airlines before your flight if you plan to bring oversized baggage to ensure it can be accommodated on your flight.

Sports Equipment Allowance

American Airlines allows passengers to bring sports equipment as checked baggage. The weight and size limits vary depending on the type of equipment. For example, bicycles, surfboards, and snowboards can be checked as part of your baggage allowance, but will incur an additional fee of $150 per item.

If you plan to bring sports equipment, it is recommended that you contact American Airlines in advance to ensure that your equipment can be accommodated on your flight and to confirm any additional fees.

Benefits of Checking Baggage

While carry-on baggage is convenient for quick trips, there are benefits to checking your bags on American Airlines. Firstly, you do not have to worry about carrying your bags through security or finding space in the overhead bin on the plane. Secondly, you can bring more items with you, which is especially useful for longer trips or when traveling with children. Finally, you do not have to worry about the weight or size of your bags, as long as they meet the airline’s policies.

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Checked Baggage vs. Carry-On Baggage

While carry-on baggage is convenient for short trips, checked baggage is more suitable for longer trips or when traveling with children. Checking your bags allows you to bring more items with you and not worry about the size or weight of your bags.

However, checked baggage comes with additional fees, which can add up if you have multiple bags or oversized equipment. Additionally, you have to wait for your bags at the baggage claim area upon arrival, which can be time-consuming.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger, with no weight limit specified for carry-on bags. Checked baggage is allowed up to 10 bags per passenger, with a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag. Oversized baggage is allowed with a maximum size of 126 inches (320 cm) and a maximum weight of 100 pounds (45 kg), with an additional fee of $200 per bag. Sports equipment is allowed as checked baggage, with additional fees and weight and size limits.

It is important to note that American Airlines’ baggage policies may vary depending on your destination and ticket type, so be sure to check the airline’s website or contact customer service before your flight to confirm the details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find below some of the frequently asked questions about the weight of bags on American Airlines:

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

The maximum weight for a carry-on bag on American Airlines is 40 pounds (18.14 kg). However, the maximum size allowed for a carry-on bag is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). Any bag that exceeds these limits will need to be checked in.

What is the maximum weight for a checked bag on American Airlines?

The maximum weight for a checked bag on American Airlines depends on your destination and fare class. For most destinations, the maximum weight for a checked bag is 50 pounds (22.7 kg) for Economy and Basic Economy fares, and 70 pounds (31.75 kg) for Premium Economy, Business, and First Class fares. However, there may be some exceptions or additional fees for overweight bags. It is always recommended to check with American Airlines before your flight.

What are the fees for overweight bags on American Airlines?

The fees for overweight bags on American Airlines depend on your destination and fare class. For most destinations, bags weighing between 51-70 pounds (23-32 kg) will incur a fee of $100. Bags weighing between 71-100 pounds (32-45 kg) will incur a fee of $200. However, there may be some exceptions or additional fees for bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) or for flights to certain destinations. It is always recommended to check with American Airlines before your flight.

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Can I bring a personal item in addition to my carry-on bag on American Airlines?

Yes, you are allowed to bring one personal item in addition to your carry-on bag on American Airlines. Examples of personal items include a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. The maximum dimensions allowed for a personal item are 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).

What happens if my bag exceeds the weight limit on American Airlines?

If your bag exceeds the weight limit on American Airlines, you may be required to pay an overweight baggage fee. The fees for overweight bags depend on your destination and fare class. In some cases, you may also be required to transfer items from your overweight bag to another bag to meet the weight limit. If you are unable to reduce the weight of your bag, you may be required to ship the excess weight separately or leave some items behind.

Is there a weight limit for carry on bags American Airlines?


In conclusion, the weight limit for bags on American Airlines varies depending on the class of service and the destination of your flight. For domestic flights, bags in economy class must weigh no more than 50 pounds, while bags in first and business class can weigh up to 70 pounds. For international flights, the weight limit for bags in economy class is also 50 pounds, but bags in premium cabins can weigh up to 70 or even 100 pounds.

It is important to note that if your bag exceeds the weight limit, you will be charged an additional fee. To avoid this, it is recommended that you weigh your bags before heading to the airport and consider packing lighter or spreading your belongings across multiple bags.

Overall, understanding the weight restrictions for your baggage can help you avoid unnecessary fees and ensure a smoother travel experience. By following these guidelines and planning ahead, you can pack efficiently and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

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