American Airlines Baggage Fees (2026)
Quick summary
American Airlines lets every fare (including Basic Economy) bring one free carry-on plus one free personal item, but charges for checked bags. After the May 18, 2026 fee update, the first checked bag on domestic main-cabin tickets is $45 prepaid online ($50 at the airport) and the second is $55 online ($60 at the airport). AAdvantage elites and most AAdvantage credit cardholders still get their first checked bag free.
At a glance
🎒 Personal item
One free personal item (purse, small backpack, or laptop bag) on all fares including Basic Economy. Must fit under the seat in front of you (max about 18 x 14 x 8 in).
🧳 Carry-on
One free carry-on bag on every fare, including Basic Economy. Max size 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels. It must fit in the overhead bin.
American Airlines checked bag fees
| 1st checked bag (domestic, online) | $45 |
| 1st checked bag (domestic, at airport) | $50 |
| 2nd checked bag (domestic, online) | $55 |
| 2nd checked bag (domestic, at airport) | $60 |
| 3rd checked bag (domestic) | $200 |
| Basic Economy 1st bag surcharge | $55 |
🔁 Change & cancellation
Main Cabin and above have no change fees on domestic and short-haul international flights; you pay only the fare difference. Basic Economy is generally non-changeable and non-refundable. All tickets booked directly with American qualify for a 24-hour risk-free cancellation with a full refund if the flight is at least 2 days away.
Other common fees
| In-cabin pet (carrier) | $150 |
| Preferred/Main Cabin seat selection | From $9 |
| Overweight bag (50–53 lb, domestic) | $100+ |
How to avoid extra fees
- Prepay checked bags online before getting to the airport to save $5 per bag versus the airport rate.
- Most co-branded AAdvantage credit cards (e.g., Citi/AAdvantage Platinum Select) give the primary cardholder and up to 4 companions a free first checked bag on domestic itineraries — easily offsetting the annual fee on one round trip.
- AAdvantage Gold status and above includes free checked bags, so even a low elite tier pays for itself if you check bags often.
- Basic Economy gets the same free carry-on and personal item as Main Cabin, so you can avoid checked-bag fees entirely by packing in a carry-on.
American Airlines baggage — FAQ
Does Basic Economy include a free carry-on on American Airlines?
Yes. American allows one free full-size carry-on plus one personal item on all fares, including Basic Economy. Basic Economy passengers only pay extra if they check a bag (and there is a surcharge on the first checked bag).
How can I get my first checked bag free on American?
Hold AAdvantage Gold status or higher, or carry an eligible AAdvantage co-branded credit card — both typically waive the first checked bag fee on domestic flights. Premium-cabin and full-fare tickets also include free checked bags.
Can I cancel an American Airlines ticket for free?
If you book directly with American at least 2 days before departure, you can cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. After that, Main Cabin and above have no change fees (pay only fare difference), while Basic Economy is generally non-refundable.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with American Airlines. Baggage fees and policies change often and vary by route, fare type, and date — always confirm on the airline's official website before booking or flying.