American Airlines Baggage Fees and Policy Guide

Here is your essential guide to understanding the official American Airlines baggage policy and fees if you are planning your next domestic or international travel.

First Checked Bag

The first checked bag fee ($35 if paid online) generally applies to Main Cabin and Basic Economy tickets for flights within the U.S. For many international routes, the fee is typically lower. All standard baggage in American Airlines must not exceed 62 linear inches (L+W+H) and 50 lbs (23 kg).

Second Checked Bag

The American Airlines second checked bag fee is charged if your ticket type or status doesn’t already include two free bags. The fee is usually a flat $45 for trips to the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Third Checked Bag

This bag is considered an excess item and comes with a high fee. For U.S. domestic travel, the fee is often $150. International baggage fees for American Airlines for a third bag can be $200 or more, and acceptance is subject to seasonal restrictions.

Note: How much American Airlines’ baggage fees will depend on several factors, including your fare class, destination, and status. All published baggage fees, if you are flying in 2025, are non-refundable and apply to each passenger, each way.

Reach out to our support team at +1-855-510-5187‬ to get suggestions on the best way to save on ticket booking.

Exemptions to American Airlines’ Checked Baggage Policy

Exemption Category	American Airlines Free Checked Baggage Allowance	Conditions and Notes
AAdvantage Executive Platinum & Platinum Pro / **oneworld® Emerald**	3 Free Checked Bags (up to 70 lbs each)	This is the highest level of American Airlines free checked baggage for AAdvantage members. The bags also get a higher weight limit of 70 lbs (32 kg).
AAdvantage Platinum / **oneworld® Sapphire**	2 Free Checked Bags (up to 70 lbs each)	This status grants two bags free of charge. This allowance also applies if you are flying in a confirmed Business or Premium Economy seat.
AAdvantage Gold / **oneworld® Ruby**	1 Free Checked Bag (up to 50 lbs)	Ensure your AAdvantage number is linked to your booking.
Eligible Co-branded Credit Card	1st Checked Bag Free	This benefit applies to the primary cardholder and companions on the same domestic American Airlines booking.

Tips to Reduce American Airlines Baggage Fees

Paying Online: You can save time and money by paying for your bags on the American Airlines website or app 24 hours before your flight.
Overweight & Oversized: If your bag exceeds 50 lbs or is larger than 62 linear inches, you will be charged an extra fee. The American Airlines oversized baggage fee can be substantial and note that it is charged in addition to the standard checked bag fee.
Military Travel: Active U.S. military personnel and their dependents may check up to five bags for FREE (100 lbs each) on American Airlines-operated flights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the American Airlines baggage fees for international flights?

A: International fees, like any other airline, vary significantly by destination, fare class, and, for this airline, your AAdvantage status. Common fees are often $35 for the first bag, but fees for regions like Europe and Asia are higher.

Q3. Does American Airlines charge baggage fees to AAdvantage status members?

High-tier AAdvantage members (Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum) are eligible for two to three complimentary checked bags, which makes the standard fees exempt for them.

Q 5. How is sports equipment treated for checked baggage?

A: Sports items like golf bags or skis are treated as one regular checked bag. If they weigh over 50 lbs or go beyond 62 inches, the usual overweight or oversize baggage fee applies.

Q2: How can I pay for American Airlines baggage fees?

You can pay online for up to three bags during the check-in process on AA.com or the mobile app to get the cheapest rate, or you can pay at the airport kiosk/ ticket counter.

Q4. What are the limits on American Airlines baggage for First and Business Class?

Confirmed First and Business Class customers are generally allowed two checked bags for free, and these bags can weigh up to 70 lbs (32 kg) each instead of the standard 50 lbs limit.

Q 6. What is the fee for traveling with a pet in the cabin on American Airlines?

The fee for a carry-on pet (dog or cat) in the cabin is $150 one-way and this may change depending on size and route restrictions. You must contact their reservation team‬ to confirm the pet space is available on your flight or talk with our agents at +1-855-510-5187 for tips.