american airlines Flight Booking

American Airlines at a Glance

American runs one of the country's largest domestic networks and connects it to Europe, Latin America, and Asia through its own long-haul flights and oneworld partners.

American Airlines Baggage Allowance and Size Limits

American gives every passenger a free carry-on and a free personal item, including Basic Economy. Checked bags are where most domestic fares add cost.

American Airlines Carry-On Size and Weight Limits

Your carry-on can be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles. American doesn't publish a weight limit for it.

American includes one free carry-on bag and one free personal item. That's one of the biggest differences between American and United, where domestic Basic Economy covers only a personal item.

American Airlines Personal Item Size

The personal item limit is 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm), and it has to fit under the seat in front of you. That's roomier than United's limit, which helps if you travel with a bigger laptop bag.

American Airlines Checked Bag Size and Weight Limits

A standard checked bag can weigh up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and measure up to 62 linear inches (158 cm). Heavier or larger bags incur overweight or oversize charges. The airline may impose seasonal baggage restrictions on certain international routes, such as weight, size, and number.

What Can You Bring as a Carry-On or Personal Item on American Airlines?

American goes by size, so the same bag can be a personal item or a carry-on depending on how full it is. Common examples:

• Backpack: personal item if it fits within 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Otherwise, it counts as a carry-on.
• Purse, briefcase, or laptop bag: personal item.
• Roller suitcase or duffel:carry-on, within the 22 x 14 x 9 inch limit.
• Diaper bag, coat, and small food bag: usually allowed in addition to your two bags.
• Medical and mobility devices: they don't count toward your allowance.
• Golf clubs, skis and bikes:checked as special items. The AA sports equipment policy explains the rules.

To compare American with other carriers, check our airline baggage fees page

How to Get Cheap American Airlines Flights

Because Basic Economy still includes a carry-on, the cheapest AA fare is often good enough for a short trip. Consider these restrictions before booking:

• Basic Economy boards last and doesn't allow changes after the initial 24 hours of booking. It only suits if your plans are fixed. Our Basic Economy vs Main Cabin guide covers the trade-offs.
• Booking close to departure? These American Airlines last-minute flight tips help.

Popular Destinations on American Airlines

American serves every one of these cities, most of them nonstop from at least one hub:

• Flights to Dallas
• Flights to Chicago
• Flights to New York
• Flights to Los Angeles
• Flights to Las Vegas

FAQ's

What's the best website to book American Airlines flights?

CheapFlightsFares is a convenient place to start, because you can book an American Airlines flight, hotel, and rental car together instead of on three different sites. You'll also see American?s fares next to other airlines on your route, and you can add bags, seat selection, or travel insurance during the same booking.

How much does American Airlines charge for checked bags?

For Main Cabin tickets issued on or after April 9, 2026, on domestic routes, the first checked bag is about $45 online or $50 at the airport, and the second is about $55 online or $60 at the airport. Basic Economy tickets issued on or after May 18, 2026, cost $5 more for each of the first two bags. This brings the first checked bag to $50 online or $55 at the airport, and the second bag to $60 online or $65 at the airport.

Is AAdvantage free to join?

Yes, AAdvantage membership is free. Members earn miles on American flights and on oneworld partners such as British Airways and Alaska Airlines. Our AAdvantage guide explains status levels and how to redeem miles. Add your number when you book so your trip miles are credited automatically.