BaggageChecker
Home/Airlines/American Airlines

American Airlines Baggage Size & Weight Limits

This page lists the American Airlines cabin and checked baggage allowances, including maximum dimensions, weight limits and excess baggage fees. Use the size checker to confirm your own suitcase fits before you get to the airport.

What is carry-on, personal item and checked baggage?
AAAA logo
American Airlines
AAUnited States
Visit Website

Baggage allowance for American Airlines · check fare, route and operating-carrier conditions before travel

PIPersonal ItemGoes under the seat in front of you
35 × 45
20
Max dimensions35 × 45 × 20 cm
Max width35 cm
Max height45 cm
Max depth20 cm
Max weightNo weight limit

A handbag, laptop bag or small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you.

COCarry-on BaggageGoes in the overhead bin
36 × 56
23
Max dimensions36 × 56 × 23 cm
Max width36 cm
Max height56 cm
Max depth23 cm
Max weightNo weight limit

One cabin bag per passenger. Measured with wheels and handles included.

CBChecked BaggageHanded over at the check-in desk
Max total dimensions158 cm (L + W + H)
Standard bag weight23 kg
Oversize thresholdover 158 cm
Bags includedFare and route dependent

Standard limit is 158 cm total. Economy/Premium Economy: 23 kg per bag; First/Business free bags: 32 kg per bag. Australia/New Zealand free bags use 32 kg.

Allowance by Cabin Class / Fare

Class / fareCarry-onChecked bagsWeight / allowance
Basic Economy / Main Cabin1 carry-on + 1 personal itemVaries by fare/route; fees often apply23 kg
Premium Economy1 carry-on + 1 personal item2 bags on many international products23 kg
Allowance varies by route/product.
Business1 carry-on + 1 personal item2 bags32 kg
First1 carry-on + 1 personal item2–3 bags depending on First product/route32 kg

Baggage allowance for American Airlines · check fare, route and operating-carrier conditions before travel

Excess & Oversize Fees (USD)

Extra checked bag$75 – $120
Overweight (23–32 kg)$100
Overweight (32–45 kg)$200
Oversize (over 158 cm)$150
Gate-checked cabin bag$70

Fees vary by route and are usually cheaper when paid online before travel than at the airport.

Good to Know

Published dimensions include wheels, handles and external pockets.Baggage rules can differ on codeshare and partner-operated flights.Special items such as sports gear or instruments need advance booking.Always confirm on the airline's website before you travel.
Baggage rules last updated June 2026

Will your bag fit American Airlines?

Enter your suitcase dimensions in the size checker and see instantly whether it meets these limits.

Check my bag for American Airlines

The three baggage types, explained

Airlines split what you travel with into three allowances. Each has its own size and weight limit, and the one you exceed decides what you pay.

Personal item

The small bag that goes under the seat in front of you — handbag, laptop bag or small backpack. Usually free and rarely weighed.

Carry-on

The wheeled case you take into the cabin and store in the overhead bin. Sized at the gate, and weighed by many airlines.

Checked baggage

The large suitcase you hand over at the desk and collect at your destination. Charged by bag, with strict weight limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, American Airlines typically allows free carry-on baggage within their specified size and weight limits. Check the dimensions above to ensure your bag complies with American Airlines regulations.