Are Carry On Bags Free On American Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

Are you planning to travel on American Airlines and wondering if you can carry on your bags for free? It’s a common question that many passengers have, and we’re here to provide you with the answers.

Carry on bags are essential for many travelers, and it’s important to know what the policies are for the airline you’re flying with. In this article, we’ll explore whether carry on bags are free on American Airlines and what you need to know before you pack your bags.

Are Carry on Bags Free on American Airlines?

Are Carry on Bags Free on American Airlines?

Carry on bags are essential for people who are traveling on American Airlines. They are convenient, easy to carry, and can save you money on baggage fees. But are carry on bags free on American Airlines? In this article, we will explore this question and provide you with all the information you need to know.

Carry On Baggage Policy on American Airlines

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry on bag and one personal item on board. The carry on bag should fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for the carry on bag are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including the wheels and handles. The personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for the personal item are 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). Examples of personal items include a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack.

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Carry On Baggage Fees on American Airlines

American Airlines does not charge a fee for carry on bags. However, if your carry on bag does not fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, you may be required to check it in at the gate. In this case, you will be charged the applicable checked baggage fee.

Exceptions to American Airlines Carry On Baggage Policy

There are certain exceptions to American Airlines carry on baggage policy. If you are traveling on a Basic Economy fare, you are only allowed to bring one personal item on board. You are not allowed to bring a carry on bag unless you pay an additional fee. If you are traveling on a transatlantic flight, you are allowed to bring one carry on bag and one personal item, regardless of the fare you purchased.

Benefits of Bringing a Carry On Bag on American Airlines

Bringing a carry on bag on American Airlines has several benefits. First, you do not have to wait for your luggage at the baggage claim after your flight. This can save you time and give you more flexibility in your travel plans. Second, you can save money on baggage fees. Checked baggage fees on American Airlines can range from $30 to $150 per bag, depending on the route and fare you purchased. Finally, you can have your essential items with you at all times. This is especially important if you have connecting flights or if you are traveling with valuable items.

Carry On Bag vs Checked Bag: Pros and Cons

While bringing a carry on bag on American Airlines has several benefits, there are also some drawbacks. First, you have limited space in your carry on bag, which means you may have to leave some items behind. Second, you have to carry your bag with you at all times, which can be tiring and inconvenient. Third, you may have to pay a checked baggage fee if your carry on bag does not fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. On the other hand, checking a bag has its own benefits. You have more space for your items, you do not have to carry your bag with you, and you can check in your bag early and forget about it until you arrive at your destination.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, carry on bags are free on American Airlines, as long as they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If your carry on bag does not fit, you may have to check it in at the gate and pay the applicable checked baggage fee. Bringing a carry on bag on American Airlines has several benefits, including saving money on baggage fees, having your essential items with you at all times, and avoiding the baggage claim after your flight. However, there are also some drawbacks, such as limited space and having to carry your bag with you at all times. It is up to you to decide whether you want to bring a carry on bag or check in a bag on your next American Airlines flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions asked about American Airlines carry-on baggage policies.

What is the carry-on baggage policy for American Airlines?

Passengers are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on American Airlines flights. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Additional fees may apply for oversized or overweight bags.

It’s important to note that some Basic Economy fares may not include a free carry-on bag. Passengers who purchase Basic Economy fares can choose to pay for a carry-on bag or check a bag for an additional fee.

What size restrictions are there for carry-on bags on American Airlines?

The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag on American Airlines are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters), including handles and wheels. Any bag that exceeds these dimensions will need to be checked and additional fees may apply.

In addition to the carry-on bag, passengers are also allowed to bring one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 centimeters).

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

American Airlines does not have a weight limit for carry-on bags. However, passengers must be able to lift their bag into the overhead bin without assistance. If a bag is deemed too heavy or cumbersome by the flight crew, it may need to be checked and additional fees may apply.

It’s also important to note that personal items such as purses, briefcases, or laptop bags do not have a weight limit, but they must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.

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What items are not allowed in carry-on bags on American Airlines?

American Airlines prohibits certain items from being brought on board in carry-on bags. These items include explosives, flammable items, firearms, and certain types of batteries. Passengers are encouraged to check with American Airlines before traveling to ensure that they are not attempting to bring prohibited items on board.

In addition, some items such as liquids, gels, and aerosols are subject to TSA restrictions and must be placed in a quart-sized bag and presented separately at the security checkpoint.

Can I bring a carry-on bag and a checked bag on American Airlines?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring both a carry-on bag and a checked bag on American Airlines flights. Additional fees may apply for checked bags depending on the passenger’s fare class and destination.

Passengers who purchase Basic Economy fares may need to pay for both a carry-on bag and a checked bag if they wish to bring both on board. However, passengers who purchase higher fare classes such as Main Cabin or First Class will typically have at least one free checked bag included in their fare.

How many bags can you carry on American Airlines for free?


In conclusion, carry on bags are not technically free on American Airlines. However, passengers are allowed to bring one personal item and one carry on bag for free. It is important to note that the size and weight restrictions for these bags must be followed in order to avoid additional fees.

While some may argue that the fees for larger or additional bags can be costly, American Airlines does offer options for passengers to save on baggage fees. For example, passengers can purchase priority boarding or opt for a credit card that waives baggage fees.

Overall, while there may be fees associated with bringing carry on bags on American Airlines, there are options available to help passengers save money and travel comfortably. By understanding the restrictions and taking advantage of available options, passengers can make their travel experience as stress-free as possible.

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