Skip to main content

Travelers are going to hate American Airlines’ newest policy change

American Airlines baggage policy just changed, and it might make you want to change your airline carrier

An American Airlines airplane in an airport.
Miguel Ángel Sanz/Unsplash

Nothing upsets us more when flying than getting hit with fee after fee after fee. One specific downer is that darn baggage fee. We wear layers to save space in our suitcase and will try any tips we see on TikTok to pack way more than we need into one bag. Packing cubes are everyone’s friend. Well, you might need more help because the American Airlines baggage policy changed, and it’s not for the better.

Recommended Videos

For passengers flying American’s basic economy fare, American Airlines no longer offers one checked bag on flights to and from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania — and the rates are pretty steep. (Note: the basic economy policies for both domestic flights and for those going to Canada and Latin America have not changed.)

The price of our over-packing problem

Your ticket (be it economy or first class), where you are flying to, and where you are flying from all factor into the cost. We know — that’s annoying and confusing. Here’s the deal for transatlantic and transpacific flights:

Carry-ons are still free

Each passenger still gets one carry-on and one personal item for free with their basic economy ticket. As always, check with your airline about what counts, the weight and size requirements, and all that fun stuff. But otherwise, those two are business as usual. 

First and second checked bag fees

That first checked bag is where the fees start to stack up. First bags start at $0 if you grab a first-class ticket and go up to $75 for economy seats. But if you’re looking to check a second bag? That will cost you $100.

Third and fourth checked bag

At this point, you might not even want to know. You’ll spend $200 per bag checked in. It might be cheaper to ship your stuff ahead of you.

A busy airport with people getting in line at check in.
Phil Mosley / Unsplash

The nitty gritty details

Now, if you thought that was a one-time fee, we are sorry to tell you that is not the case. The specifics don’t make us feel any better. 

Each fee is

  • For each way
  • For each person
  • Non-refundable
  • Going to accrue at each connection

That would add up quickly, especially if you were a family traveling for any extended period of time or had multiple connections.

How to get out of the fees

Is there any way to not have these fees? Yes, with stipulations. You’ll have to read the fine print to know where you land.

There is a way to skip the extra costs

  • The first checked bag fee is waived if you have a certain AAdvantage or oneworld membership status.
  • When landing at specific destinations with business or premium seating, check your first bag free.
  • Certain levels of AAdvantage, oneworld, active military status, and other memberships allow you to check up to five bags for free. 

Signs point toward American Airlines catering to their elite and prestigious passengers and pricing out other customers. Airlines like Delta and United haven’t done this to travelers yet, but there’s no saying what might happen if they follow suit. Between pilot shortages, fewer flight times to pick from, and now increased checked baggage fees, will road trips make a comeback as the preferred family vacation option?

Before you book your ticket across the pond, there’s one more thing to check if you fly with American Airlines, and it might make you want to repack your bags.

Dannielle Beardsley
Dannielle has written for various websites, online magazines, and blogs. She loves everything celebrity and her favorite…
Is an airport lounge day pass worth it? Here’s what you need to know
Because sometimes, waiting at the gate just isn’t enough
Airport lounge

Sometimes, all you want at the airport is a quiet chair and a drink. And that’s exactly what made me interested in an airport lounge day pass.

If you’ve ever wandered past the frosted glass doors of an airport lounge and wondered what it’s like behind them, you’re not alone. The idea of escaping the chaos of the terminal, finding a quiet spot to sit, maybe even taking a shower, sounds pretty appealing. 

Read more
This country is now the go-to for solo travel, according to a new study
Italy is the top place to travel solo
Canals in Burano, Venice, Italy

Craving a solo escape that’s equal parts safe and scenic? According to a new ranking from Much Better Adventures, there's one destination that stands out above the rest, and it might surprise you. After analyzing factors like safety scores, affordability, biodiversity, ease of entry, and traveler reviews, the adventure travel company named Italy the number one country in the world for solo travel in 2025.

While seven of the top 10 destinations are in Europe, Italy claimed the top spot thanks to its incredible regional diversity, accessible travel network, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Each part of the country feels like a unique adventure, from the vineyards of Tuscany to the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, the food markets of Palermo to the alpine trails of the Dolomites. With affordable trains and well-connected towns, traveling between regions is easy, often spontaneous, and always scenic.

Read more
TUMI vs Away: Which luggage brand is better for your travel style?
Which one’s worth the spot in your overhead bin?
Man carrying a suitcase and carry-on suitcase

I found myself torn between TUMI and Away when I needed a new carry-on. Both brands have nice designs, solid reputations, and plenty of fans online. But I wanted more than just hype — I wanted something that matched my travel habits and felt like a smart investment.

If you’re debating between the two as well, you’re in the right place.

Read more