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An orange hard-sided suitcases wit a yellow hard sided suitcase laying on it. Blue background with words "Is American Airlines Strict with Carry On" in white.

How Strict is American Airlines with Carry On Size?

Air travel can be a hassle, especially when it comes to packing and adhering to strict airline luggage policies. One of the most common questions travelers have is, “how strict is American Airlines with carry on size?” In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore American Airlines’ carry on policies, their size and weight restrictions, and how you can avoid incurring additional fees and make the boarding process easier.

Understanding American Airlines’ Carry On Baggage Policy

Before diving into the specifics of American Airlines’ size restrictions, let’s first understand the basics of their carry on baggage policy.

American Airlines Carry On Allowance

American Airlines permits each passenger to bring one carry on bag and one personal item (such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag or similar item) onboard, free of charge. It is important to note that these allowances apply to all passengers, regardless of their ticket class or frequent flyer status.

Two orange and black backpacks on a gray background. An open tape measure is also there.

Carry On Bag Dimensions and Weight Restrictions

When it comes to the size of your carry on bag, American Airlines has specific guidelines that must be followed. The maximum dimensions for a carry on bag are 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 in) or 115 centimeters (56 x 36 x 23 cm), which includes handles and wheels. This size restriction and overall dimensions ensures that the bag can fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.  Also, your luggage can get dinged and nicked if it’s a very tight fit in the overhead space. Bigger bags must be checked.

As for the maximum weight of your standard carry-on, American Airlines does not explicitly state any weight restrictions for carry on bags. However, it is essential to keep in mind that you must be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin without assistance.

Personal Item Dimensions and Restrictions

In addition to your carry on bag, you are also allowed to bring a personal item on board (such as a small backpack or small bag). The personal item size must be of an appropriate size to fit under the seat in front of you. Items such as a jacket, umbrella, diaper bags, duty-free items, and assistive devices (wheelchairs, walkers, crutches (and other medical devices), strollers, and a car seat or child safety seats, etc.) do not count towards your carry on allowance.

Note: If you are seated in a bulkhead row, there is no under-seat storage available, so all carry on baggage must be stowed in the overhead bin during take-off and landing.

How Strict is American Airlines with Carry On Size?

American Airlines is relatively strict when it comes to enforcing their carry on size restrictions. Upon check-in or at the gate, airline staff may ask you to place your carry on bag in a baggage sizer to ensure it meets the maximum dimensions. If your bag exceeds the size limits, you may be one of those unlucky passengers asked to check it and pay any applicable fees due to not meeting the size requirements.

picture with various wheeled suitcases on a wood grained floor. One is dark gray and one is yellow and gray.

What Happens If Your Carry On Bag is Oversized?

If your carry on bag does not fit within American Airlines’ size restrictions, you may be required to check the bag and pay any applicable baggage fees. To avoid any unexpected surprises at the airport, it is best to measure your carry on bag before departure and make sure it adheres to the airline’s guidelines and won’t incur bag fees.  An oversized carry-on item that exceeds the total dimensions could put a kink in your travel budget.

Tips to Avoid Carry On Size Issues with American Airlines

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, consider the following tips when packing your carry on bag for your American Airlines flight:

  1. Pack Light: Packing light not only helps you stay within the size and weight restrictions but also makes it easier to maneuver your bag through the airport and lift it into the overhead bin.
  2. Use a Soft-Sided Bag: Soft-sided bags, such as duffel bags or backpacks, are often more flexible and can be compressed to fit within the size restrictions. This can be especially helpful if you are unsure whether your carry on meets the airline’s guidelines.
  3. Know the Airline’s Policies: Familiarize yourself with American Airlines’ carry on baggage policies before your trip to avoid any surprises at the airport. Make sure to check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date information.
  4. Invest in a Carry On-Sized Suitcase: If you’re a frequent traveler, it may be worth investing in a suitcase specifically designed to meet carry on size restrictions. Many luggage brands offer carry on-sized options that are guaranteed to fit within the guidelines of most major airlines, including American Airlines.
  5. Be Prepared to Check Your Bag: In the event that your carry on bag does not meet American Airlines’ size restrictions, be prepared to check the bag and pay any applicable fees. To avoid unexpected costs, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the airline’s checked baggage fees before your trip.

American Airlines’ Checked Baggage Policy

If you find that your carry on bag does not meet American Airlines’ size restrictions and you need to check it, it’s essential to understand the airline’s checked baggage policy. And it’s much better to know that now to learn it in the airport.  Especially if you are cutting it close on your arrival time.  Many checked bags need to be at the airport early enough to make sure the luggage gets properly on your flight.  No one likes lost luggage.  And you don’t want to spend your trip looking for luggage.  Let’s take a look at the checked bag policy.

Overhead bin with several suitcases on an airplane.

Checked Baggage Allowance and Fees

American Airlines’ standard checked baggage allowance varies depending on factors such as your destination, ticket class, frequent flyer status, and whether you have an American Airlines-sponsored credit or charge card. In general, passengers are allowed to check between two and ten bags, with maximum dimensions of 62 inches (157 cm) and weight limits of 50 pounds (23 kg) for Economy passengers and 70 pounds (32 kg) for First or Business Class passengers.

A checked bag fee depends on factors such as the number of bags checked, destination, and ticket class. For example, on US domestic flights, the first checked bag costs $30, while the second bag costs $40. Additional fees apply for excess and oversized baggage.  There can even be overweight fees so it’s smart to know beforehand.

Sports Equipment and Special Items

American Airlines also has specific policies and fees related to sports equipment and special items, such as musical instruments or assistive devices. In most cases, these items will count as one checked bag and are subject to standard checked baggage fees, size, and weight restrictions. However, some items may incur additional fees or have unique guidelines, so it’s essential to review the airline’s policies for your specific item before your trip.

Final Thoughts on American Airlines Carry On Size Restrictions

Understanding how strict American Airlines is with carry on size can help you avoid unnecessary stress and fees during your travels. By adhering to the airline’s size and weight limit guidelines, packing light, and being prepared for potential fees, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable flight experience.

It’s also nice if your personal item that stores under the seat is a little smaller and soft sided so you get a little more leg room on your flight. If you have a bag tightly tucked under the seat, given the small space, it’s going to be difficult to pull out the iPad or other device in flight.  Another tip with carry on luggage is to put your carry on in the overhead closest to your seat.  It makes it so much easier to retrieve your bag.  A luggage tag is nice so you can tell your bag from similar ones on the flight.

Remember to always check American Airlines’ website for the most up-to-date information on their carry on and checked baggage policies before your trip. And, carry on, despite any hassles, can’t get lost since it’s right there with you.  Happy flying!

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The Patricks

Mike and Tracey Patrick are adventurers at heart with a love of all things travel. They believe life and every, single day should be an adventure. You can join them on them on their travel blog that offers unique destinations and guides to make every vacation an adventure.

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