What are the size and weight restrictions for my luggage?

– Since the Carriers’ baggage restrictions are undergoing a recent period of frequent changes, you should check directly with your Carrier for the size, weight and number of bags you can check in and carry.

– In many cases, Airlines have added new limits on both carry-on and checked baggage. You should check, but most airlines limit your carry-on to a range of 14″ to 16″ tall, 21″ to 24″ wide, and 8″ to 9″ deep. The lower limits are for under-seat storage and the larger limits are for the more generous overhead bin. A total of 45″ (height+width+depth) can be used as a basic guideline to see if your bag will be allowed as a carry-on.

– Most airlines have a carry-on weight limit of 40 pounds and a checked baggage weight limit of 70 pounds.

– Some airlines allow a larger size and weight for your first bag, but have more restrictive limits for additional bags.

– Many airlines’ limits vary if you are taking a domestic or international flight, are flying first, business or economy class or are a member of their premium membership clubs.

– All limits are enforced much more strictly than in the past. Bags are weighed at check-in and many airlines have placed bag confiscation devices at their gates. If your carry-on bag is too big, it will need to be checked and that could cause it to be classified as “extra baggage”, which usually carries an additional fee. If your bags are too heavy, you may be charged a fairly high excess baggage fee.

How many pieces of luggage can I take with me?

– Just because you’ve cracked it once, don’t always expect to get away with it. Tighter enforcement of the rules and more and more bag seizure stations will probably catch you now. This is especially true during the holidays and other peak flight times when airlines are watching closely as the planes are full and everyone is trying to sneak a lot of stuff on the plane.

– During periods of high security, you may need to check items that you would normally be allowed to take on board the aircraft.

– Most airlines allow you to split a combination of three suitcases between your carry-on and checked luggage. You’ll want to check with your specific airline, as there are differences in their allocation schedules. Airlines also view some items differently; some will count a laptop or briefcase against your allowance, while others won’t.

– You may be allowed to bring more baggage free of charge if you are traveling on a First or Business Class ticket or if you are a member of the airline’s premium membership club.

– If you plan to bring additional luggage, it is best to check with the airline to see if they allow it on the plane. Even if you are willing to pay an additional fee, they may still refuse your extra baggage if the plane is already full. If you receive permission to bring the extra baggage, ask the person granting permission to note it on your reservation and be sure to get their name.

– If you change airlines during your trip, you will need to take into account the baggage allowances for all the airlines you will be using. What is acceptable to one airline may result in an additional charge for another.

– Check the regulations when making connecting flights in Europe or other foreign countries. You may be subject to more restrictive baggage limits while flying within the area than when flying into the area.

– If you’re flying a commuter airline for any leg of your journey, you’ll need to be aware of their baggage allowances. Many commuter airlines have limited space and only allow hand luggage, they also have more restrictive weight limits.

How can I avoid extra charges for my luggage?

– Know the baggage limits on all the Airlines you will use on your trip and try to stay within those limits.

– Do not overpack, overweight bags have caused many injuries to baggage handlers. To try to put people off, airlines often charge a hefty fee for handling an overweight bag.

– If you really need the items, you need to register to pay the extra baggage fee. It is generally cheaper to split your items into two bags and pay the extra bag fee than it is to pay the overweight bag fee. You can also avoid the embarrassment of your luggage exploding because it’s too full.