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Every airline has its specific set of regulations when it comes to hand luggage. We’ve put together this guide to help you avoid paying unexpected fees when travelling with American Airlines.


What is American Airlines’ hand luggage policy?

 Carry-on bagPersonal item
Max dimensions56 x 36 x 23 cm
(22 x 14 x 9 in)
45 x 35 x 20 cm
(18 x 14 x 8 in)
Max weightNot specifiedNot specified
Allowance1 carry-on bag (fee free)1 personal item (fee free)

American Airlines allows one cabin bag and one personal item per passenger. The cabin bag must fit in the overhead bin. If the bag does not fit in the overhead bin, it must be checked in. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.

The carry-on size limit for American Airlines is 56 x 36 x 23 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches), including handles and wheels. American Airlines does not specify any weight limit for cabin bags in any of its fares. What’s important is that your hand luggage does not exceed the prescribed size limit.

The American Airlines personal item size limit is 45 x 35 x 20 cm (18 x 14 x 8 inches). Items that are not considered personal include baby changing bags, breast pumps, mobility devices, prams, and child safety seats.

What is American Airlines’s policy on carry-on liquid items?

American Airlines follows the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids. Passengers are allowed to carry a quart-sized bag containing liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers measuring 100 millilitres or smaller. Have these items in a small bag separate from your hand luggage for a faster inspection process.

What are the rules when travelling with infants on American Airlines?

American Airlines welcomes infants on board at no extra cost. Each child is allowed to bring one baby changing bag only. Mothers have the option to bring a breast pump and a compact cooler containing breast milk, along with their hand luggage or personal item.

Please note that only one infant is allowed per ticketed adult. Additional infants must have a ticket. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult on all American Airlines flights.

Can I bring extra items on board American Airlines flights?

You can bring musical instruments as hand luggage if they meet the size requirements and fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. The same applies to passengers travelling with pets. The pet carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.

There are also specific rules, exceptions, and packing instructions to consider. For example, the maximum weight for most items is 45 kg (100 lbs) and the maximum size is 320 cm (126 inches, length + width + height). Please note that some exceptions may apply.

Pet on a plane

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American Airlines hand luggage FAQs

Is a rucksack considered a personal item on American Airlines?

A rucksack can be considered a personal item on American Airlines if its size fits the required dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. This means it should fit under the seat in front of you.

Can I bring a rucksack and a cabin bag on American Airlines?

American Airlines allows you to bring a rucksack as your personal item and a cabin bag, as long as they meet the size requirements.

How strict is American Airlines with its hand luggage size policy?

American Airlines adheres strictly to its rules and makes sure that hand luggage meets its size requirements.

Disclaimer: Information is correct as of 25.08.2023 and may vary with time.

About the author

Fie KornumFie is Head of Content at KAYAK. Her ideal holiday would be sitting by the fireplace in a quiet cabin somewhere off the grid, watching the snow fall while relaxing with a glass of wine. Reality, however, is messier - and a lot noisier. Because when you’re travelling with two kids, there’s always something happening (usually involving pools or ice cream.) Follow Fie on Linkedin for more travel inspiration.

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