Packing for a flight can be a little stressful, especially when you have to cram everything into a small bag. If you’re flying with American Airlines, it’s a good idea to know what they allow for carry-ons, so you are not forced to check your bag and pay a small fee at the gate. Nobody likes that stress. The good news is that Americans are pretty unambiguous about the rules and state you are allowed to bring both a personal item and a larger carry-on for free. Let’s look at the exact sizes so you can pack with confidence.
What Is American Airlines Carry-On Policy?
American Airlines is actually pretty generous when it comes to bringing bags on the plane. You get one main carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin and one smaller personal item that goes right under the seat in front of you. This rule applies to almost everyone, even if you bought a basic economy ticket. The main thing to remember is that your bags have to fit their exact size limits, or the gate agents will make you check them at the last minute. As long as your bags are the right size, you are completely good to go.
What are the Carry-On Rules For Basic Economy Tickets?
If you bought a Basic Economy ticket on American Airlines, you might worry about strict hidden baggage rules. The great news is that American Airlines changed their old rules, and now Basic Economy passengers get the exact same carry-on allowance as everyone else. You can bring one full-size carry-on bag for the overhead bin and one small personal item under your seat without paying any extra fees. Just make sure your bags fit the size limits so you don’t get forced to check them at the gate.
- Take Two Free Bags: Both a personal item and a larger carry-on free of charge.
- Board Last: For those traveling on Basic Economy, you’ll board last, so you will have to contend with a lack of overhead bin space.
- Clothe the Bags: The size guidelines exist, so make sure you do not go over it and have to pay for your bag to be gate-checked.
- No Free Checked Bags: Remember that checking a regular bag at the counter still costs extra with this ticket.
Do American Airlines Have Carry-On Weight Limits?
American Airlines does not actually have a weight limit for your carry-on bags. Unlike many international airlines that weigh your bags at the check-in desk, American only cares about the physical size of your luggage. As long as your suitcase can fit inside the overhead bin and you are strong enough to lift it over your head by yourself, you are completely fine. This means you can have your heavy books, extra shoes, or thick jackets without having to constantly worry about the weight (just make sure the size is not over the limit), which is always a nice break.
What are the Prohibited Items In Carry-On Bags?
When you are packing your carry-on, you have to be really careful about what you put inside to avoid getting stopped at airport security. The rules are mostly there for everyone’s safety, so anything that could be dangerous is a big no-no. If you accidentally pack the wrong thing, the security officers will take it away, and you won’t get it back. It is always a good idea to double-check your pockets and zippers before leaving home so you don’t lose your favorite items at the checkpoint.
- Watch Your Liquids: Any liquids, gels or creams must be contained in small bottles, measuring no more than 3.4 ounces each.
- Leave Sharp Objects Behind: Anything resembling large scissors, pocket knives or razor blades is not allowed.
- No Flammable Stuff: Items like lighter fluid, fireworks or spray paint will be taken by security immediately.
- Pack Tools in Checked Bags: Heavy wrenches, hammers, and screwdrivers are not allowed in your overhead carry-on luggage.
What Happens If Carry-On Bags Are Too Large?
If your carry-on bag is too big, you will find out pretty quickly at the boarding gate. The airline agents will ask you to drop it into their metal sizing box, and if it does not fit, they will make you check it. This means your bag goes down into the belly of the plane with the regular luggage instead of staying with you. The worst part is that you will usually have to pay a hefty checked bag fee right on the spot. Plus, you will have to wait around at the baggage carousel to grab it after your flight lands, which wastes a lot of time.
What are the Tips To Avoid Carry-On Problems?
Avoiding baggage drama at the airport is actually pretty easy if you plan ahead just a little bit. The best thing you can do is test your bags at home before you leave for the airport. Use a regular tape measure to check the wheels and handles, because those parts usually make a bag too big. It also helps to wear your bulkiest clothes and heaviest shoes on the plane instead of packing them. This leaves tons of open space in your bag, so it never looks stuffed or catches the eye of a strict gate agent.
- Check Your Bag at Home: Take a tape measure to make sure your carry-on is the right height, width, depth and includes wheels if applicable.
- Wear Your Heavy Clothes: Wear your fattest jacket and boots while you fly, and pack them in your checked luggage.
- Make Your Bags Soft: A squishy duffel bag makes it easier to squeeze into the overflight bin.
- Put All Your Liquids in One Bag: Put all your small travel bottles in a clear pouch for quick security checks.
Conclusion
In short, staying within the American Airlines carry-on bag dimensions is the best approach to begin your trip without hassle. It is wonderful that they do not have a weight limit and let you bring two bags for free, but you still have to follow the physical dimensions closely. Spending just five minutes at home checking your suitcase with a tape measure can save you from a lot of unnecessary drama, surprise fees, and long lines at the gate. As long as you pack smart, measure early, and keep your bags light enough to lift by yourself, you will breeze right through boarding and enjoy a super smooth flight.
FAQs
Q.1 Can I bring a backpack as a personal item?
Ans: Yes. Small backpacks are usually acceptable as personal items if they fit entirely under the seat in front of you.
Q.2 Do American Airlines charge for carryon bags?
Ans: Yes. Passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on standard tickets without fee.
Q.3 Are liquids allowed in carryon luggage?
Ans: Yes. Liquids are allowed in liquids in containers up to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) each placed in a clear quart-sized plastic bag.
Q.4 What if my carryon bag is oversized?
Ans: You may need to check it at the airport and may be subject to additional baggage fees.
Q.5 Can passengers in Basic Economy bring carryon bags?
Ans: Yes. Passengers in American Airlines’ Basic Economy can bring one carryon bag and one personal item onboard.
Q.6 Does American Airlines have a carry-on weight limit?
Ans: American usually does not have a carry-on weight limit on most domestic flights.
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