Knowing what you need on a flight across the world is important. Having personal, or fragile items in your carry-on gives you the peace of mind you need during a flight.
If you’re flying on American Airlines it’s important to know their carry-on policy. This will help you avoid any inconvenience at the airport, so keep reading!
Does American Airlines Allow Carry On In 2024?
American Airlines allows 1 carry-on and 1 personal item for free. Both carry-ons and personal items must not exceed 40 lbs. There is a list of restricted items that cannot be packed into a carry-on. However, passengers will be able to carry these items in their checked bags. A passenger’s carry-on must also fit into the sizer at check-in.
You want to keep your personal items close to you on a flight, but you don’t know if American Airlines allows it. Keep reading to learn more.
Does American Airlines Basic Economy Allow Carry On?
American Airlines allows customers on a Basic Economy class flight 1 carry-on to any destination.
Is American Airlines Strict With Carry Ons?
For many reasons including the lack of space and safety, American Airlines is fairly strict with its carry-on luggage policy.
For starters, there is limited space in the overhead bin. Additionally, items that could pose a threat to passengers are also disallowed in carry-on luggage.
Does American Airlines Allow Carry-on and Personal?
American Airlines allows customers on a Basic Economy class flight 1 carry-on and one personal item.
A personal item is a small item that can fit under the seat in front of the customer.
Are Backpacks Considered Personal Items On American Airlines?
Smaller backpacks can be considered personal items on American Airlines. The item must be smaller than 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
Child-related items do not count as personal items. Examples of child-related items include cooler bags for milk, safety seats, and strollers.
Passengers are limited to one diaper bag per child. This does not count towards their personal item limit.
Additionally, passengers can also bring medical devices that won’t count as personal items. Examples of medical devices include crutches or canes.
Can I Bring a Carry On and a Backpack On American Airlines?
Passengers will be glad to hear that American Airlines will allow passengers to carry a backpack on flights.
A backpack will count towards the passenger’s 1 personal item limit. Backpacks brought on board as personal items must fit comfortably in the seat in front of the passenger.
What Happens If My Carry-on Is Too Big On American Airlines?
If a passenger’s carry-on bag is too big, they will need to valet the bag before boarding. American Airlines staff will tag and check the bag free of charge.
Upon arrival, the passenger’s bag will be returned to them.
Can a Duffel Bag Be a Carry-On With American Airlines?
A duffel bag can actually be considered a personal item if it is smaller than (18 x 14 x 8 inches).
If the duffel bag is larger than this, it will be considered a carry-on.
If it exceeds the carry-on requirement, it will need to be included in checked luggage. Please note, that passengers may need to pay a fee for additional checked luggage.
What Are American Airlines Carry-On Restrictions?
Carry-ons have a limit of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including the handles and wheels. The carry-on must also fit in the sizer during check-in.
Passengers should also be aware of TSA-regulated restricted items. If a passenger violates these U.S laws, they could face up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Examples of restricted items include batteries, cutting instruments, drones, and firearms.
Some of these restricted items can be included in a passenger’s checked luggage — however, illegal items cannot.
American Airlines Carry-on Baggage Weight
The weight limit for a personal item or carry-on is 40 pounds (18.2 kgs).
Does American Airlines Allow Carry-On Pets?
Passengers can bring 1 kennel in place of their carry-on item.
Passengers bringing a carry-on pet will be subject to a fee. Kennels will also need to be kept under the seat in front of the passenger.
Only cats and dogs are allowed as carry-on pets. They will need to meet the breed and size requirements as well.
Trained service dogs are allowed in the cabin without paying a fee (if requirements are met).
Does American Airlines Allow Carry On for Free?
Passengers will be happy to hear that American Airlines allows 1 free carry-on item and 1 free personal item.
Does American Airlines Allow Skateboards As a Carry On?
In general, the TSA allows skateboards in the cabin. However, it is recommended to call American Airlines customer service and check with them.
There have been conflicting reports on whether or not a skateboard is allowed in carry-on luggage.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on how much do American Airlines pilot make, does American Airlines have Premium Economy, and if you can get a free checked bag with American Airlines.
Conclusion
Passengers flying to any destination on an American Airlines flight have the option of 1 free carry-on and 1 free personal item. American Airlines enforces the TSA’s rules on restricted items.
These items cannot be carried in a carry-on. Some of these items can be carried in checked baggage. This is to ensure passenger safety. However, items that are illegal cannot be carried in a carry-on, or in checked luggage.
