Types

• All carry-on baggage must have a total linear size of 45 inches, found by adding the length, width and height together, while carry-on bags for travel within the United States must meet the specific size requirements of being smaller than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high. Checked bags must total no more than 62 linear inches and weigh under 50 pounds on all flights, excluding bags on flights to and from Brazil that may weigh up to 70 pounds, as noted on the American Airlines website.
  
  

Considerations

• While one carry-on bag is included on all American Airlines flights, the airline charges coach passengers a $25 fee for the first checked bag on flights within the United States and Canada, with fees for each additional bag. All international flights allow one or two complementary checked bags (depending on destination), while all business and first class travelers are allowed to carry three checked bags on any flight for free.
  
  

Warning

• Checked baggage that weighs more than allowed or is oversized is subject to additional fees. American Airlines notes on its website that not all oversized items can be accommodated on all flights. The airline also provides regulations regarding oversized sporting equipment, musical instruments, firearms and other specialty items. If traveling with any special items, contact the airline to make arrangements and to discuss any rules, regulations or fees before arriving at the airport.