Say Goodbye to Carry-On Luggage? – American Airlines is making headlines with its major policy change regarding carry-on luggage in 2025. If you’re a frequent traveler, this update could significantly impact how you pack and travel. The airline is expected to revise its baggage policy, potentially limiting the size of carry-on bags or requiring more passengers to check their luggage.
For travelers who rely on carry-on luggage to avoid checked bag fees and long waits at baggage claim, this could be a frustrating shift. However, understanding these changes early can help you plan and avoid unexpected expenses.
Say Goodbye to Carry-On Luggage?
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| New Carry-On Policy | American Airlines is expected to revise carry-on baggage allowances in 2025. |
| Current Carry-On Size Limit | 22 x 14 x 9 inches for standard carry-ons, 18 x 14 x 8 inches for personal items. |
| Potential Changes | Stricter size limits or elimination of carry-ons for certain fares. |
| Reason for Change | To reduce delays, streamline boarding, and optimize luggage space. |
| Implications for Travelers | More passengers may need to check luggage, leading to additional fees. |
| Official Resource | American Airlines Baggage Policy |
The potential carry-on policy changes by American Airlines in 2025 could significantly impact travelers, particularly budget-conscious passengers and frequent flyers. While this change aims to improve boarding efficiency, it may also lead to higher baggage fees and inconvenience for many passengers.
To stay ahead, make sure to review fare conditions before booking, invest in smaller carry-on bags, and explore credit card options that offer baggage perks. If you travel frequently with American Airlines, keeping up with their official baggage policy will help you avoid unexpected costs.
Understanding American Airlines’ Carry-On Policy Changes
1. What Is Changing?
Currently, American Airlines allows one standard carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a purse, backpack, or laptop bag) per passenger. However, new reports suggest that the airline is looking to revise its policy, possibly reducing the allowed size for carry-ons or eliminating them for basic economy fares.
The change could mean:
- Stricter carry-on size limits, forcing travelers to check larger bags.
- Elimination of carry-ons for certain ticket classes, requiring basic economy passengers to travel with only a personal item.
- Increased baggage fees, as more travelers may need to check their luggage.
These potential changes would bring American Airlines in line with some budget airlines that already restrict carry-ons for lower-tier tickets.
2. Why Is American Airlines Making This Change?
There are a few reasons why American Airlines may be tightening its carry-on policy:
- Boarding efficiency: Overhead bin space often runs out, delaying takeoff as passengers struggle to stow bags.
- Revenue increase: More checked bags mean more baggage fees, a significant source of income for airlines.
- Aligning with global standards: Many international airlines have smaller carry-on size limits than American Airlines currently allows.
- Passenger experience: By reducing large carry-ons, boarding and deplaning may become smoother, leading to fewer flight delays.
According to the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), baggage fees generated over $5.9 billion for U.S. airlines in 2023, making this an attractive policy change from a revenue perspective.
How This Change Affects Travelers?
If American Airlines moves forward with stricter carry-on policies, here’s how it will impact different types of travelers:
1. Business Travelers
Many business travelers rely on carry-on luggage to avoid baggage claim delays. If carry-ons are restricted or eliminated, professionals may need to budget extra time for baggage retrieval or opt for premium fare classes that allow carry-ons.
2. Budget Travelers
Those who fly basic economy to save money will likely be the most affected. With potential carry-on bans for economy fares, budget travelers may be forced to check bags, increasing the total cost of travel.
3. Families and Vacationers
Families often travel with multiple bags, making checked baggage fees add up quickly. If carry-ons are limited, they may need to strategically pack personal items or upgrade to higher fare classes.
What You Can Do to Prepare?
1. Check Your Fare Class Carefully
Before booking, read the baggage policy for your ticket type. Basic economy fares may come with new carry-on restrictions in 2025.
2. Invest in a Compliant Carry-On Bag
If American Airlines reduces the allowed carry-on size, you’ll want a lightweight, compact suitcase that meets the new requirements. Look for options around 20 x 14 x 8 inches, as this may become the new standard.
3. Maximize Your Personal Item
Many airlines still allow one free personal item, so choose a larger backpack or duffel bag to fit essentials if carry-ons are restricted.
4. Consider Elite Status or Credit Cards
Certain airline credit cards and loyalty programs waive checked baggage fees and allow larger carry-ons. If you travel frequently, upgrading to an elite status or co-branded credit card may help you bypass these new limitations.
5. Pack Smarter
Use packing cubes, roll clothing to save space, and wear bulky items (like jackets) onboard to minimize what you need to pack in your bag.
6. Explore Alternative Airlines
If these new policies don’t align with your travel needs, consider flying with airlines that still allow standard carry-ons, such as Southwest Airlines, which permits two free checked bags per passenger.
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FAQs
1. Will carry-ons be completely banned?
It’s unlikely that American Airlines will ban carry-ons entirely. However, they may restrict them for basic economy passengers or enforce smaller size limits.
2. When will these changes take effect?
The new carry-on policy is expected to roll out in 2025. However, exact details will be confirmed by American Airlines closer to implementation.
3. How can I avoid extra baggage fees?
- Choose fare classes that allow carry-ons.
- Use an airline credit card that waives baggage fees.
- Pack efficiently to fit within personal item limits.
4. Are there exceptions for medical equipment or baby items?
Yes. Medical devices, strollers, and child safety seats typically do not count toward carry-on limits. Always check American Airlines’ official policy for details.
