What To Know
- Infants and children under the age of 2 who are traveling on the lap of an adult are allowed to bring a diaper bag or car seat as a carry-on.
- A personal item is a small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, while a carry-on bag is larger and can be stored in the overhead bin.
- No, Basic Economy passengers are not permitted to bring a carry-on bag on connecting flights, even if the second flight is on a different fare class.
Flying with American Airlines can be a cost-effective and convenient option, but understanding the nuances of different fare classes is crucial. One common question that arises is whether Basic Economy tickets include carry-on baggage. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the complexities of American Airlines’ Basic Economy fare and determine if it includes a carry-on bag.
What is Basic Economy?
Basic Economy is a fare class offered by American Airlines that provides a stripped-down experience at a lower price. It typically includes the bare essentials for air travel, such as a seat on the plane and a personal item.
Carry-on Baggage in Basic Economy
Does American Airlines Basic Economy include a carry-on bag?
No, American Airlines Basic Economy **does not** include a carry-on bag. Passengers flying on Basic Economy are only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of them.
Personal Item Dimensions
The dimensions for personal items allowed in Basic Economy on American Airlines are:
- 18 inches (45 cm) in length
- 14 inches (35 cm) in width
- 8 inches (20 cm) in height
Exceptions to the Carry-on Rule
There are a few exceptions to the carry-on rule for Basic Economy passengers:
- Medical devices: Essential medical devices, such as CPAP machines or wheelchairs, are permitted as carry-ons.
- Lap children: Infants and children under the age of 2 who are traveling on the lap of an adult are allowed to bring a diaper bag or car seat as a carry-on.
- Active military personnel: Active members of the U.S. military may bring one carry-on bag plus one personal item.
Checked Baggage in Basic Economy
Checked baggage is not included in Basic Economy fares. Passengers who wish to check a bag will need to pay an additional fee, which varies depending on the route and time of year.
Alternative Carry-on Options
If you need to bring more than a personal item on your Basic Economy flight, you can consider the following options:
- Purchase a higher fare class: Upgrading to a higher fare class, such as Main Cabin or Premium Economy, will allow you to bring a carry-on bag.
- Pay for a checked bag: You can pay an additional fee to check a bag, which may be more cost-effective than purchasing a higher fare class.
- Pack light: Consider packing lighter and bringing only essential items that can fit in your personal item.
Benefits of Basic Economy
Despite the limitations on carry-on baggage, Basic Economy can still be a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers. Some of the benefits of Basic Economy include:
- Lower fares: Basic Economy fares are typically the cheapest option available for flights on American Airlines.
- No change fees: Basic Economy tickets do not have change fees, so you can make changes to your flight without penalty.
- Advance seat assignments: Basic Economy passengers can purchase advance seat assignments for a fee.
Recommendations: Making an Informed Decision
Whether or not American Airlines Basic Economy is right for you depends on your individual travel needs. If you can pack light and only need a personal item, Basic Economy can save you money. However, if you need to bring a carry-on bag, you will need to purchase a higher fare class or pay a checked baggage fee. By understanding the limitations and benefits of Basic Economy, you can make an informed decision about which fare class is best for your next American Airlines flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a personal item and a carry-on bag?
A: A personal item is a small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, while a carry-on bag is larger and can be stored in the overhead bin.
Q: Can I bring a backpack as a personal item on Basic Economy?
A: Yes, as long as it meets the size dimensions for personal items.
Q: What if I have a connecting flight? Can I bring a carry-on bag on the second flight?
A: No, Basic Economy passengers are not permitted to bring a carry-on bag on connecting flights, even if the second flight is on a different fare class.
