Travel smarter with this guide to American Airlines' carry-on sizes

What does American Airlines say about carry-on luggage?

American Airlines permits each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item. The carry-on must fit in the overhead compartment, and if it doesn’t, it will need to be checked.

	Carry-on bag	Personal item
Max dimensions	22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 cm X 36 cm X 23 cm)	18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 cm X 35 cm X 20 cm)
Max weight	Not specified	Not specified
Allowance	1 carry-on bag (fee free)	1 personal item (fee free)

The maximum dimensions for a carry-on are 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. You can also bring soft-sided garment bags up to 51 inches as your carry-on. The personal item can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat in front of you.

Items not classified as personal include diaper bags, breast pumps, mobility aids, strollers, and child safety seats.

American Airlines does not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags across any of its fare options. The key is ensuring your carry-on remains within the specified size limits.

✈️ Pro Tip: Accurately measure your luggage using Dinogo’s convenient Bag Measurement feature in the mobile app, and discover packing tips for your carry-on.

What is American Airlines’ policy regarding carry-on liquids?

American Airlines adheres to the TSA's 3-1-1 liquid rule. You can bring a quart-sized bag containing liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes, with each container limited to 3.4 ounces. Keep these items in a separate small bag for quicker inspection.

What additional items are permitted on board?

You are allowed to bring musical instruments as carry-on items, provided they comply with size limits and can fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. The same rules apply to travelers with pets, as the pet carrier must fit under the seat ahead of you.

Additionally, there are specific guidelines, exceptions, and packing requirements to keep in mind. For instance, the maximum weight for most items is 100 lbs and the maximum size is 126 inches (length + width + height), though some exceptions may apply.

A dog inside a carrier placed under an airplane seat.

Each child is permitted one carry-on diaper bag only. Mothers can also bring a breast pump and a small cooler with breast milk, along with their carry-on or personal item.

A man with a backpack checking the flight information display at the airport.

Is a backpack regarded as a personal item on American Airlines?

A backpack can qualify as a personal item on American Airlines if it meets the required dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches, allowing it to fit beneath the seat in front of you.