Airports And Baggage: Size Checks And Rules

If you're travelling by plane, you'll likely need to bring luggage with you. As each airline has different requirements for checked and carry-on baggage, it's important to measure your luggage correctly to avoid unexpected fees for oversized luggage. Airlines have size restrictions on both carry-on and checked baggage because space inside planes is limited and heavier planes are less fuel-efficient, more expensive, and more damaging to the environment. While some airlines may not always measure your luggage, it's best to be prepared and measure your bags before you fly to ensure you don't encounter problems.

Characteristics	Values
Do airlines measure checked luggage?	Yes, the majority of airlines will measure your suitcase at the check-in counter.
How do airlines measure checked baggage?	Airlines don't use sizers for checked baggage. When you are checking your bag at the check-in desk, the weight of the bag is automatically taken. If a bag looks too large, the check-in steward will measure your suitcase with a measuring tape.
How do you measure luggage at home?	Use a simple tape measure. Measure the height, width, and depth of your bag, including handles and wheels.
How do you avoid paying for oversized bags?	Be polite and smile when checking in your bag. Use a soft case. Avoid bags that are bulging.

Baggage sizers at the check-in counter

Airlines have size and weight restrictions for both carry-on and checked baggage. These restrictions are in place to ensure the plane isn't overloaded and to reduce the possibility of injuring baggage handlers. Most airlines use a baggage sizer, a metal frame that you need to place your carry-on bag inside. If your bag doesn't fit inside the frame, it's too big. Most times, you won't need to use the sizer unless requested, so protruding wheels or a handle may not cause a problem. However, if asked to test your bag and it doesn't fit, you will be forced to check your bag and may be charged additional fees.

At the check-in counter, if your bag looks too large, the check-in staff will use a measuring tape to measure your suitcase. If your bag exceeds the size limit, you may be charged a fee to check it in. This fee can be costly, so it's best to measure your bag at home before travelling to the airport. Each airline publishes its own baggage size and weight limits, and these can vary depending on the airline and your frequent flyer status with them. Therefore, it's essential to check the specific restrictions of the airline you're travelling with.

When measuring your baggage at home, use a tape measure to get the height, width, and depth of your bag. These dimensions are usually written in the order of height, width, and depth. Simply add these three numbers together to get the total size of your bag. It's important to include any protruding wheels or handles in your measurements, as these are included when the airline measures your luggage. By measuring your bag beforehand, you can avoid any unexpected fees or complications at the check-in counter.

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Weight restrictions for checked luggage

Most airlines have weight restrictions for checked luggage, and it's important to check the rules of your chosen airline before travelling. While weight limits vary, the standard weight limit for checked luggage is 50 lbs (23 kg). If your luggage exceeds this limit, you may be charged an overweight bag fee. These fees can be hefty, ranging from $100 for bags 1-20 lbs (4.5 kg) over the limit to $200 for bags 21-50 lbs (9-22.6 kg) over. If your bag exceeds 101 lbs (45 kg), the airline may refuse to check it in, or you could be charged $300 or more.

Some airlines offer different weight allowances for their first-class and business-class passengers. For example, American Airlines allows a weight of 70 lbs (32 kg) for free bags in First/Business class, and 50 lbs (23 kg) for excess charged bags.

It's worth noting that some airlines do not accept bags over 80 inches (203 cm) in certain locations. Additionally, if an item has total dimensions (length + width + height) greater than 118 inches (300 cm), it cannot be checked in as baggage and will need to be sent as cargo or freight.

To avoid unexpected fees, it's recommended to measure the weight of your luggage at home using a handheld luggage scale.

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Linear measurements

To measure the height of your bag, place it against a wall and mark the top with a pencil. Then, measure from the mark to the floor to get the height, making sure to include any wheels. For the width, measure across the front of the bag, including any side handles. To get the depth, measure from the back of the suitcase (where your clothes rest) to the front, including any exterior pockets or bulges.

If you are measuring a duffel bag, stand it on its end and measure from one end to the other to get the height. For carry-on luggage, measure from the bottom of the wheels to the top of the handle for the height.

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Carry-on luggage restrictions

When flying, it's important to be aware of carry-on luggage restrictions to avoid problems at the airport. Each airline has its own rules, so it's essential to check with your specific carrier. Here are some general guidelines and tips to help you prepare for your next flight:

Size and Weight Restrictions:

Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on item and one personal item onboard. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag, including handles and wheels, typically range from 22 x 14 x 9 inches to 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Personal items, such as a purse or briefcase, should be smaller and fit under the seat in front of you. Some common size limits for personal items are 18 x 14 x 8 inches or 17 x 10 x 9 inches.

It's important to note that some airlines provide size templates or sizers at the airport, and your carry-on bag must fit within these dimensions. While protruding wheels or handles may not always be an issue, it's best to measure your luggage accurately at home using a tape measure. Luggage manufacturers sometimes advertise larger bags as "carry-on size," so don't rely solely on their listed measurements.

In addition to size restrictions, there may also be weight limits for carry-on luggage. While some airlines don't specify weight restrictions, others may require that carry-on items be light enough for passengers to lift into the overhead bins.

Restricted and Prohibited Items:

Certain items are restricted to carry-on luggage only, while others are prohibited altogether. For example, aerosol insecticides are not allowed in carry-on bags but can be transported in checked luggage if they are not hazardous materials.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules regarding liquids, gels, and aerosols. The 3-1-1 rule allows passengers to bring containers of 3.4 ounces or less, which must fit into a single quart-sized bag. Duty-free liquids purchased during inbound international flights are exempt from this rule but must be securely packaged and accompanied by a receipt.

Additionally, the TSA prohibits items like knives, firearms, and box cutters in carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include lighters, batteries, and electronic cigarettes, which must be removed from checked bags.

Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience:

To ensure a stress-free airport experience, it's recommended to measure and weigh your luggage at home, following your airline's specific guidelines. Label your carry-on items in case they need to be checked. Also, be mindful of any additional restrictions or variations in carry-on policies at your departing airport or specific plane.

By familiarizing yourself with carry-on luggage restrictions and planning ahead, you can avoid unexpected fees and delays during your travel.

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Avoiding fees for oversized luggage

While it is not common for airlines to measure checked bags, it is still important to be mindful of size restrictions. If your bag is clearly too large, it will be measured and you will be charged an additional fee. To avoid this, you can:

Measure your bag at home with a tape measure. It is your responsibility to ensure your bag complies with the airline's size restrictions.
Research the real size of your suitcase before you buy it. Take your own tape measure to the store if you need to.
Be aware that luggage manufacturers may conveniently ignore protruding handles and wheels when advertising their products. They often advertise suitcases as "carry-on size" when they are technically oversized for some airlines.
Weigh your bag at home. You can use a handheld luggage scale or a bathroom scale.
Pay for additional weight in advance. It is often cheaper to book extra hold luggage in advance rather than paying excess baggage fees at the airport.
Pool baggage with a travel buddy. Some airlines let you buy baggage by overall weight, which can be spread across separate bags.
Use lightweight luggage. Older suitcases tend to have heavy frames, whereas a lightweight model or a canvas backpack can give you a few extra kilos to play with.
Make the most of your hand luggage allowance. Some airlines allow you to bring two items on board, or you can upgrade your in-cabin allowance to a larger bag.