American Airlines Raises Checked Baggage Fee to $80

American Airlines raises first checked bag fees to $40 one-way in July 2025, with second bags at $45. Southwest's removal of free bags ends free checked luggage among major U.S. airlines. Upcoming carry-on changes may impose fees. Travelers should prepay and use loyalty programs to minimize charges.

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Key takeaways

American Airlines raises first checked bag fee to $40 one-way starting July 22, 2025.
Second checked bag costs $45 one-way; round-trip one bag totals $70–$80 on domestic flights.
Southwest ends free bags in May 2025, leaving no major US airline offering free checked bags.

Travelers flying with American Airlines in 2025 face higher checked baggage fees, with round-trip costs now reaching $70 to $80 for a single bag on most domestic routes. This change, effective as of July 22, 2025, marks a significant increase and reflects a wider trend among major U.S. airlines. The move affects millions of passengers, especially families and budget travelers, who must now plan carefully to avoid extra charges.

American Airlines, along with United and Delta, has raised its checked baggage fees in the past year. The standard fee for a first checked bag on a domestic route is now $40 one-way, or $35 if paid online. The second checked bag costs $45 one-way. For a typical round-trip with one checked bag, travelers pay between $70 and $80. While some international and special routes, such as flights to London Heathrow, may have higher fees—sometimes up to $80 per bag—these are not the standard rates for U.S. domestic flights.

American Airlines Raises Checked Baggage Fee to
American Airlines Raises Checked Baggage Fee to $80

This increase in the American Airlines checked baggage fee comes at a time when all major U.S. carriers are looking for new ways to boost revenue. Since the late 2000s, baggage fees have become a major source of income for airlines. The latest round of increases began in late 2024 and continued into 2025, with the “Big Three” U.S. airlines—American, United, and Delta—raising their fees almost at the same time.

Southwest Airlines, which was known for letting passengers check two bags for free, announced in May 2025 that it would end this benefit. Now, no major U.S. airline offers free checked bags for standard fares. This change leaves travelers with fewer options to avoid extra costs, making it even more important to understand the new policies.

Details of the New Checked Baggage Fees

As of July 2025, the American Airlines checked baggage fee structure is as follows:

  • First checked bag (domestic, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands): $40 one-way ($35 if paid online)
  • Second checked bag: $45 one-way
  • International routes (Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, Guyana): $35–$45 for the first bag
  • Overweight bags (51–70 lbs): $100 extra
  • Oversized bags (71–100 lbs): $200 extra
  • Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted

These fees apply to most standard fares. However, travelers with elite status in the AAdvantage program, oneworld elite members, or those who hold certain American Airlines credit cards may still get free checked bags. It’s important to check your eligibility before booking.

Baggage fees are not subject to the 7.5% federal excise tax that applies to airfare. This tax rule encourages airlines to separate, or “unbundle,” services like checked bags from the base ticket price. By charging for bags separately, airlines can keep base fares lower and avoid paying higher taxes.

Carry-On and Personal Item Policies

In addition to checked baggage fee changes, American Airlines is rumored to be preparing further changes to its carry-on policies in 2025. The airline may reduce the size limits for carry-on bags and increase enforcement, especially at busy airports like Miami International. Some industry watchers believe American Airlines may start charging fees for carry-on bags for basic economy fares, following the example of ultra-low-cost carriers.

Currently, American Airlines allows each passenger to bring:

  • One personal item (maximum 18 x 14 x 8 inches)
  • One carry-on bag (maximum 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles)

Travelers should expect stricter enforcement of these size limits at the gate. If your bag is too large, you may have to pay a fee to check it. There is also speculation that size limits could shrink later in 2025, so it’s wise to check the latest rules before you fly.

💡 Tip
To save on baggage fees, always prepay for checked bags online when booking your flight. This can save you $5 per bag compared to paying at the airport.

Why Are Baggage Fees Increasing?

Travel industry experts point to several reasons for the rising checked baggage fees. Airlines face higher costs for fuel, labor, and airport operations. By charging separately for bags, airlines can keep base fares more competitive while still covering their expenses. Another reason is the tax advantage: since baggage fees are not taxed like airfare, airlines can keep more of the money they collect from these charges.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these changes are part of a larger trend in the airline industry. As airlines look for new ways to increase revenue, passengers are likely to see more fees for services that were once included in the ticket price.

Impact on Travelers

The higher American Airlines checked baggage fee affects many groups, but families and budget travelers feel the impact most. For a family of four, checking one bag each on a round-trip domestic flight now costs $280 to $320. This extra cost can make air travel less affordable, especially for those who travel often or on tight budgets.

⚠️ Important
Be cautious of potential changes to carry-on policies in 2025, including reduced size limits and possible fees for basic economy fares. Always double-check before your flight.

Consumer advocates warn that rising baggage fees may push more travelers to sign up for airline credit cards or loyalty programs just to avoid these charges. While these programs can offer benefits, they may not be the best option for everyone. Some travelers may also try to fit everything into carry-on bags to avoid checked baggage fees, which could lead to crowded overhead bins and more stress at the airport.

Airlines argue that baggage fees are necessary to cover the real costs of handling luggage and to keep ticket prices low. They say that by charging only those who check bags, they can offer lower fares to passengers who travel light.

How to Avoid or Reduce Baggage Fees

Travelers can take several steps to avoid or lower the American Airlines checked baggage fee:

  • Prepay for checked bags online: Paying for your checked bag online before your flight usually saves you $5 per bag compared to paying at the airport.
  • Check the latest baggage policies: Always review the American Airlines baggage policy page before you travel. Policies and fees can change, and you don’t want to be surprised at the airport.
  • Consider airline credit cards or loyalty programs: Some credit cards and frequent flyer programs offer free checked bags as a benefit. If you travel often, these perks can add up.
  • Pack light: If possible, try to fit everything into a carry-on bag and personal item. Just make sure your bags meet the size and weight limits to avoid extra fees at the gate.
  • Weigh your bags at home: Overweight and oversized bags come with steep extra fees—$100 for bags over 50 pounds and $200 for bags over 70 pounds. Use a luggage scale to check your bag’s weight before you leave for the airport.

Official Resources and Customer Support

For the most up-to-date information on baggage fees and policies, visit the official American Airlines baggage policy page. You can also use the fee calculator on the site to see exactly how much you’ll pay for your specific route and bag type.

If you have questions or need help, you can contact American Airlines Customer Service at 1-800-433-7300.

For broader travel and consumer rights information, the U.S. Department of Transportation provides helpful resources on airline passenger rights.

What’s Next? Future Changes and What to Watch For

The airline industry is always changing, and baggage fees could rise again if costs go up or if other airlines raise their rates. American Airlines is also expected to review its carry-on policies later in 2025. This could mean smaller size limits for carry-on bags and new fees for basic economy passengers.

Travelers should be prepared for stricter enforcement of size and weight limits at the gate. If your bag is too big or heavy, you may have to pay a surprise fee or check your bag at the last minute. To avoid this, always double-check your bag’s size and weight before you leave home.

🔔 Reminder
Remember to weigh your bags at home to avoid hefty fees for overweight luggage. Use a luggage scale to ensure your bags meet the airline’s weight limits.

Some industry experts believe that as airlines continue to “unbundle” services, more fees for things like seat selection, early boarding, and even carry-on bags may become common. This means travelers will need to pay close attention to what’s included in their ticket price and what costs extra.

Summary Table: American Airlines Checked Baggage Fees (July 2025)

Route/Region 1st Bag (One-way) 2nd Bag (One-way) Round-trip (1st Bag)
Domestic (US, PR, USVI) $40 ($35 online) $45 $70–$80
Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, C. America $35 $45 $70
Overweight (51–70 lbs) +$100
Oversized (71–100 lbs) +$200

Note: Fees may vary for special routes and international destinations. Always check with American Airlines before booking, as policies can change.

Voices from the Industry and Travelers

Travel industry analysts say that the rise in checked baggage fees is not likely to slow down. “Airlines are under pressure to keep base fares low while covering rising costs,” says one analyst. “Charging for bags separately is one way to do that.”

Consumer advocates, however, worry about the impact on families and travelers with tight budgets. “These fees add up quickly, especially for larger groups,” says a spokesperson for a leading consumer group. “Travelers need to be aware of all the extra costs before they book.”

Some travelers have shared their frustration online. “I used to check a bag without thinking about it,” says one frequent flyer. “Now I have to plan every trip around what I can fit in a carry-on.”

Others see the changes as a chance to travel lighter. “I’ve learned to pack smarter,” says a college student who flies home several times a year. “It’s a hassle, but I save money by not checking a bag.”

What Should Travelers Do Now?

If you’re planning to fly with American Airlines in 2025, here are some practical steps to take:

  • Review your travel needs: Decide if you really need to check a bag or if you can travel with just a carry-on and personal item.
  • Book early and pay online: Prepay for checked bags when you book your ticket to save money.
  • Check your bag’s size and weight: Avoid extra fees by making sure your bag meets the airline’s limits.
  • Look into credit cards or loyalty programs: If you travel often, these can help you avoid baggage fees.
  • Stay informed: Airline policies can change quickly. Always check the latest rules before you fly.

Final Thoughts

The American Airlines checked baggage fee increase in 2025 is part of a larger shift in the airline industry. As airlines look for new ways to earn revenue, travelers face more fees for services that were once included in the ticket price. By staying informed and planning ahead, you can avoid surprises and keep your travel costs under control.

For the most current information, always check the official American Airlines baggage policy page before you travel. If you have questions about your rights as a passenger, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s airline passenger rights page is a helpful resource.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the trend toward higher baggage fees and stricter carry-on policies is likely to continue. Travelers should expect more changes in the coming months and plan their trips with these new realities in mind.

By understanding the latest policies and taking steps to avoid extra charges, you can make your next trip smoother and more affordable, even as the airline industry continues to change.

Learn Today

Checked Baggage Fee → A charge airlines impose for each bag passengers check during a flight beyond any free allowance.
Oneworld Elite Members → Passengers with elite status in the oneworld alliance often receive baggage fee waivers and priority service.
Federal Excise Tax → A 7.5% tax on airline tickets, excluding baggage fees, incentivizing airlines to separate service charges.
Carry-On Bag → A small bag passengers bring onboard, subject to size and sometimes weight limits, distinct from checked baggage.
AAdvantage Program → American Airlines’ loyalty program offering benefits like free checked bags to qualifying frequent flyers.

This Article in a Nutshell

In 2025, American Airlines hikes checked baggage fees to $40 per first bag one-way. Travelers face higher costs, stricter carry-on rules, and must plan carefully. Families and budget flyers feel the impact most, making prepayment and loyalty programs vital to manage new expenses and avoid surprise fees.
— By VisaVerge.com

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Jim Grey
Senior Editor
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Jim Grey serves as the Senior Editor at VisaVerge.com, where his expertise in editorial strategy and content management shines. With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of the immigration and travel sectors, Jim plays a pivotal role in refining and enhancing the website's content. His guidance ensures that each piece is informative, engaging, and aligns with the highest journalistic standards.
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