American Airlines Carry-On Size, Weight & Fees (2026)
American Airlines's carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 (56 x 36 x 23), including wheels and handles. Weight limit: No published weight limit — must fit in the sizer. You can also bring one personal item up to 18 x 14 x 8. American Airlines includes a free carry-on on Basic Economy.
| Dimensions (in) | Dimensions (cm) | Weight limit | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-on bag | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 36 x 23 | No published weight limit — must fit in the sizer | Free (carry-on included) |
| Personal item | 18 x 14 x 8 | approx 46 x 36 x 20 | — | free |
Does American Airlines charge for a carry-on?
Carry-on is free on all fares. Gate-check due to bin space is free; checked-bag fees apply if you choose to check. Basic Economy first checked bag $50–55 prepay ($5 discount on aa.com) for tickets purchased May 18, 2026 onward.
Basic economy: what you can and can't bring
American allows one carry-on and one personal item on Basic Economy. Basic Economy boards last (typically Group 9), so overhead bins may be full and your carry-on may be gate-checked.
2026 policy note: As of May 18, 2026, Basic Economy adds a checked-bag surcharge on domestic tickets.
If your bag is too big at the gate
Carry-on must fit in the airport sizer including handles and wheels.
American Eagle regional flights: larger carry-ons may be valet-checked at the gate free and returned planeside.
How American Airlines compares
See carry-on rules for Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, British Airways — dimensions, basic-economy rules, and fees differ airline by airline.
Frequently asked questions
What is American Airlines's carry-on size?
22 x 14 x 9 (56 x 36 x 23), including wheels and handles.
Does American Airlines have a carry-on weight limit?
No published weight limit — must fit in the sizer
Can I bring a carry-on on American Airlines basic economy?
American allows one carry-on and one personal item on Basic Economy. Basic Economy boards last (typically Group 9), so overhead bins may be full and your carry-on may be gate-checked.
How much is American Airlines's carry-on or gate-check fee?
Carry-on is free on all fares. Gate-check due to bin space is free; checked-bag fees apply if you choose to check. Basic Economy first checked bag $50–55 prepay ($5 discount on aa.com) for tickets purchased May 18, 2026 onward.
Sources
- American Airlines — Carry-on bags (PRIMARY) — verified
- American Airlines — Basic Economy (PRIMARY) — verified