For carry-on baggage, American Airlines typically allows one personal item and one carry-on bag. The personal item should fit under the seat in front of you, and the carry-on should fit in the overhead bin. There are size and weight restrictions, and exceeding them may result in having to check the bag. For example, a carry-on bag's dimensions usually have to be within a certain limit, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and its weight should not exceed 40 pounds. It's important to check the latest requirements before packing to ensure your bag meets the standards.

Checked baggage policies also depend on various factors. If you're flying in economy class, you might be allowed one or two checked bags for free, depending on your destination and ticket type. However, additional bags will incur a fee. The weight limit for checked bags is usually around 50 pounds, and overweight bags will cost more. Some destinations have different rules, especially international flights. Frequent flyer status can give you benefits like extra checked bags at no cost or reduced fees. You should check the American Airlines website for specific details related to your itinerary to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Special items, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and fragile items, have their own rules. You might need to pay an additional fee for oversized or special items, and they may have specific packaging requirements. For example, a golf bag may need to be checked and might have a separate fee depending on its size and weight. American Airlines offers guidance on how to properly pack and check these items, and you should follow their instructions to ensure safe transportation and avoid damage during transit.