Sizeproof
AA · checked 2026-10-19

American Airlines carry-on and personal item size

The limits below are quoted from American Airlines's baggage rules. Sizes include wheels and handles unless noted.

Personal item
18 × 14 × 8 in (46 × 36 × 20 cm)
Your personal item like a purse or small handbag must fit under the seat in front of you. Dimensions should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).

The page does not say whether the personal-item size includes wheels or handles. No weight limit is stated. On American Eagle regional flights: "If your carry-on is larger than the personal item dimensions, you must valet your bag before boarding." (ERJ-175 excepted).

Find a personal item that fits
Carry-on
22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 36 × 23 cm)
Your carry-on bag: ... Cannot exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels

No weight limit is stated. American converts 14 in to 36 cm; Delta and United convert it to 35 cm. A soft-sided garment bag has its own limit: "cannot exceed 51 inches (130 cm) in total dimensions (length + width + height)." The page redirects to aa.com/web/i18n/... The old .jsp URL returns 403 to non-browser clients.

Find a carry-on that fits

Which fares include a carry-on

FareCarry-on includedNotes
Basic EconomyYesBasic Economy page: "You can bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item on board the plane. Carry-on requirements apply to all customers, including AAdvantage® status members." The same page warns that Basic Economy boards last (typically Group 9), when bins are usually full, so the carry-on may have to be checked.
Main Cabin and aboveYesOptional fees page: "You're allowed 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item in all cabins."

Personal items that fit American Airlines

See all 14 in the finder

Carry-ons that fit American Airlines

Source

Checked 2026-10-19. Airlines change these rules, so confirm on American Airlines's page before you fly.