You may usually take one carry-on, one personal item (such as a purse or briefcase) and one checked bag without charge. Since summer 2010, most airlines charge for every second and subsequent checked bag. Between Canada and the U.S. and on some European carriers there is a fee for every checked bag. Check with your airline and code-share partners to ascertain current charges. Check bags online to access lower fees.
Calculate size by adding together the length, width and depth of each item. For carry-on items the sum should not exceed 45 inches. Some airlines and planes with smaller stowage capacity require smaller dimensions. Place carry-on items in the container provided at check-in to verify size compliance. Ensure no checked bag exceeds 62 inches.You will be charged for exceeding permitted dimensions.
Carry-on items on flights originating in the U.S. usually have no weight restriction. Delta specifies a maximum of 11 lbs. Other carriers specify 15 lbs. Checked bags on economy flights originating in the U.S. must not exceed 50 lbs or you will be charged an overweight baggage fee. Restrictions vary with destination and ticket type. Always check with the airline.
On multi-carrier flights, ask which luggage policy they honor and get this in writing. Even when connecting airlines agree to honor the larger allowances of incoming American flights, this may not apply to hand luggage. Larger hand luggage may have to be checked on connecting flights, incurring excess baggage charges. Charges per bag may also apply when switching planes.
Items permitted in addition to the free allowance include baby equipment, coats, walkers, wheelchairs, crutches, essential medical supplies, formula and breast milk. Restrictions may apply. Check with your carrier.
Place travel-size toiletries (up to 3.4 oz.) and medications needed in flight in a 1-quart zip close bag, available for inspection. Place larger toiletries in checked luggage. Checked items must not exceed 16 oz. each or 70 oz. in total.
You may carry most electronic devices. Restrictions apply to their use, especially during take-off, landing and approach.
You may carry small musical instruments or pet containers compliant with carry-on dimensions. Count larger musical instruments and sporting equipment as part of your checked luggage allowance. Excess luggage charges apply if special items are additional to your two bags. Some airlines charge at half the excess baggage rate; others full rate.
The following items are forbidden or subject to restriction: sharp or flammable objects, batteries, liquids, alcohol, animal products (European destinations only), firearms, toy firearms, pepper sprays, household cleaners and pressurized containers. Prohibitions vary with point of origin, destination and airline. Check your carrier's policy for your route.
