The long-awaited holiday has arrived, and you are all packed and ready to go. But wait - don’t celebrate just yet! You still haven’t checked in your luggage, and surely, nobody wants to overstay their welcome at the airport.
There are baggage limits, and abiding by them can save you lots of money, time and effort. If you are packing for a family trip or an extensive getaway, chances are there’s a colossal amount of things to bring along.
An oversized suitcase will most definitely cost you excess fees at the counter. With that, what’s the largest size for checked-in luggage? Read on as we walk you through all the size regulations for checked bags.
From the maximum dimensions allowed to the ideal types of containers, no stones will be left unturned. So sit up and take notice! Believe us, you wouldn’t want to miss out on this guide.
Size Limits For Checked Luggage
Generally, a luggage piece must not exceed 62 linear inches. Size allowance plays a crucial role in determining whether or not your baggage makes it onto the aircraft.
It ensures that every passenger shares the same amount of space in the cargo hold, and ramp agents have an easier time handling bags. Most airlines set this limit in consideration of baggage handlers, who are likely to get injured while doing their jobs.
The rule, however, doesn’t apply to odd-sized baggage (bikes, fishing gear, kayaks, surfboards, etc.). The good news is that you can still go to a regular check-in desk for this type of luggage, and they will place a label on it and designate an odd-size counter for you. After an X-ray scan, you are good to go.
Fun fact: Not many airlines charge extra fees for odd-sized items. Be sure to have a look at related information and inform your airline beforehand for a cost-effective flight.
Many might be familiar with the concept of weight and size restrictions. You put the baggage on a scale and measurement. If it exceeds a permitted number, you pay an extra amount of fee. It’s that simple!
All on board! Your hefty luggage is also on its way. Photo by Goh Rhy Yan on Unsplash
1. How Airlines Measure Your Baggage
Airport workers use linear dimensions to decide whether your bag is legitimate. Clerks will use a measuring tape to gauge any luggage's height, width and length. They then calculate the sum total of each measurement and get linear inches.
For instance, if your checked bag is 35 inches in height, 30 inches in width and 17 inches long, its size will be determined as follows: 35 + 30 + 17 = 82 linear inches.
Note: Don’t trust the numbers provided by manufacturers. Most of the time, what is written on the label is a bag’s height. Always do the measuring yourself when packing.
2. Oversized Bags
Just because your oversized baggage runs over the 62-inch threshold, it is not the end of the world. You can still get them on board with an additional payment. Baggage fees average around $50-100 per bag per way depending on the airline and routes. Here are certain airlines’ hold bag restrictions and fees:
- Delta: $200 per bag within 63”- 80” (161 - 203 cm)
- American Airlines: $150-200 per bag within 62” - 126” (158 - 320 cm)
- United: $200-400 per bag within 62” - 115” (158 - 292 cm)
- Frontier: $75 per bag within 62” - 110” (158 - 280 cm)
- Lufthansa: €40-€400 per bag within 62” - 115” (158 - 292 cm)
- Emirates: $75/CA$95 per bag no more than 118 inches (292 cm).
Notice how they only charge luggage up to a certain size (around 120 inches or less)? Bags larger than that are not permitted to fly, even if you are willing to pay the oversized fee. So remember to check with the airlines beforehand and pack accordingly.
The price you have to pay for bringing oversized luggage. Photo by ConvertKit on Unsplash
3. Don’t Forget About Weight Restrictions
Even if your luggage is within the size limit, there’s the weight concept you have to keep an eye for. Generally, most carriers allow you to carry a checked bag of no more than 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg).
The standard weight restriction most airlines apply is between 40-50 lbs (18-23 kg). More generous free checked bag allowances (up to 70 lbs/32 kg - fixed weight imposed by IATA) are often found in higher ticket classes.
Some airlines don’t even care about checked luggage size but its weight of it. For instance, Jet2 has no mention of hold bag size. But they charge £12 per kg for every overweight bag.
2. Picking the perfect Checked Baggage
Luggage in compliance with aviation regulations is commendable, but when it comes to size, do take notice of several other things. We promise they won’t disappoint.
Type Matters
Travel luggage comes in a wide range of shapes and materials. Suitcases, duffle bags and backpacks are the three most prominent types. Depending on your priorities, they will come in handy at different times.
Suitcases, specifically hardshell ones, are guaranteed to shield your belongings against virtually any kind of turbulence. Expect checked-in luggage to come out unharmed every time.
If you are looking for something more suited to rough terrain, duffle bags and backpacks are the way to go. Their malleable nature will help users fit a more diverse set of items in their luggage. Adventure awaits the second you step outside of the plane.
Trip Length Determines Size
Choose wisely if you don’t want your baggage content ruined! Photo by prostooleh on Freepik
A good container should fit like a glove. The length of each trip varies, and it is a good idea to pick out a bag accordingly. At the end of the day, nobody wants their luggage contents flying around and damaged post-flight.
We have put together a list of suitcase sizes in congruent with different durations of stay for your reference. Feel free to use this your next time jetting.
- 14 days and below: 18 to 22-inch suitcase
- 2-3 weeks: 27-inch suitcase
- 4 weeks and above: 25 to 32-inch suitcase
Portability Goes A Long Way
It goes without saying that any traveller should equip oneself with a wheeled bag. The rolling motion undeniably renders lugging baggage a breeze. You will no longer struggle to carry suitcases/duffle bags onto public transport or across the airport hall.
There are two popular types of portable luggage: rollaboard (2-wheeled) and spinner (4-wheeled). If you are accustomed to pushing bags around as opposed to pulling, opt for the latter. With larger luggage, however, a good old rollaboard suitcase is sure to save some space in the cargo hold due to its recessed design.
Fun fact: The wheels on rollaboard luggage are designed bigger in size and more sturdy. Users will find it easier to drag their bags in a straight line, even on rocky surfaces. On the other hand, spinners provide more agility, making it the top contender for meandering through busy crowds.
Do you want to have less headache when flying? How about investing in a quality carry-on bag and forget all about checking in (and the pain of it). Travel light and living out of a pack are real and doable. With a little bit of planning and research, anyone can do it.
3. FAQ
1. Are Wheels And Handles Tallied Towards The Luggage Measurement?
These small guys are often overlooked. Photo by Pew Nguyen on Pexels
For many, it might be of second nature to leave out wheels and handles when measuring the dimensions of suitcases. We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but anything that sticks out of the checked luggage is, indeed, included in the overall measurement.
If your bag appears to be close to the 62-inch limit, it is advisable to double-check and change suitcases if necessary. Lugging an oversized container to the check-in counter won’t end well for anyone. So don’t take any risk in the first place.
2. How Rigid Are Airlines With Luggage Size Checking?
Toe the line, and the clerk will let you through in a heartbeat. IG: @afs_coelho
Good news, the counter clerk often gives passengers some leeway with the baggage dimensions. You will have little to no problem checking in your bag, so long as it falls into a safety margin of 1-3 inches.
Since luggage at the counter is measured with regular tapes, service workers will allow some room for error. The same can’t be said for carry-ons, as your luggage must be of specific height, width, and depth in order to fit inside the overhead cabin.
As a general rule of thumb, don’t carry baggage that looks ridiculously big. If the difference is visible to the naked eye, you might want to consider another container.
3. How Do I Manage Oversized Baggage When Travelling?
While it is not advisable to travel with oversized baggage, the task is far from impossible. Do take the following things into account to ensure a seamless journey.
It is a cardinal rule that you arrive at the counter early. The check-in process is relatively longer for oversized luggage. Typically, if there isn’t any odd-sized item in your bunch, there’s no need to contact the airline in advance.
Once landed, anyone would intuitively head straight to the carousel to collect their luggage. However, more often than not, large suitcases won’t end up on the belt for safety reasons.
If this is the case, claim your items at the oversized baggage counter. Trust us. This is way better than injuring yourself while lifting bags off the carousel.
Heads-up, your massive luggage might not be waiting at the belt conveyor! Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash
Last but not least, do brace yourself for the hefty price that comes with some extra inches. Now, most airlines would go easy on oversized luggage so long as it doesn’t exceed the weight limit. Nevertheless, some will charge an additional fee. Preparing the money beforehand helps a ton.
4. How do I Measure My Bag At Home?
Taking baggage measurements is not rocket science, anyone could get it done in the comfort of their own home. Below are some tricks that we have compiled to make the process a little bit easier for you.
To ensure accuracy, be sure to measure the bag upright. Include all the features that stick out as they matter. If there are rounded edges, extend your tape to the very end. Be extra careful, or else errors will occur.
Sometimes, laying your suitcase against flat surfaces like the wall might do the trick. This method eliminates a great deal of variables, rendering your result exceptionally close to the exact number.
5. Can I Check In A 32-Inch Luggage?
Yes, you can. However, keep in mind that linear measurement is what matters. Measure to see if your 32-inch luggage dimensions (length + width + height) are within 62 inches or not.
Bottom Line
62 inches is the magic number. Have it ingrained in your mind for the next epic holiday. By knowing the largest size for checked-in luggage, you’ll have an easier time at the airport.
Now that you’re armed with all the know-how, all there is left to do is power through the check-in procedures like a boss and jet off to the destination of your dreams.
We hope this article was helpful. There are many tips and tricks to avoid excess baggage fees. Feel free to share with us your favorite tips in the comments section down below. Until next time, bon voyage!
Anna Pham
FAQs
What’s the Largest Size for Checked-in Luggage: Essential Guide? ›
Generally, a luggage piece must not exceed 62 linear inches. Size allowance plays a crucial role in determining whether or not your baggage makes it onto the aircraft.
What is the largest size luggage for checked bags? ›Most domestic airlines publish checked baggage size limits as a single dimension: 62 linear inches total. International airlines vary slightly, but the 62-inch rule is the most common standard worldwide. Bags larger than 62 linear inches can still fly, but they may be subject to additional fees.
How big is a 62 inch checked bag? ›What's the largest luggage size in liters? All checked bags need to be under 62 linear inches (157 cm) to fit within the airline size requirements. If your hypothetical bag would be block-shaped, and exactly 20.66 inches wide on each side (exactly 62 linear inches), it would be 144.5 liters in size.
How big is 62 linear inches luggage? ›For example, if your bag is 24 inches tall, 20 inches long and 18 inches wide, its total linear length is 62 inches. Note that using modern spinner bags, which include four wheels on the bottom of your suitcase, means you'll have less space within your actual bag.
What is the size of checked in baggage allowance? ›| Airline | Cabin or Fare Type | Checked Bag Size |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Business | 62 inches (158 cm) |
| First | ||
| ANA (All Nippon Airways) | Economy | Domestic: 81.9 inches (208 cm) International: 62 inches (158 cm) |
| Premium Economy |
It's calculated by adding together the outside length, width, and height of a suitcase or bag. For example, if your bag measures 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 20 inches high, its linear inches would be 62 (24+18+20=62).
What if my checked bag is 2 inches too big? ›If the baggage size, be it check in bag or cabin bag, is higher than usual, you may need to pay additional sum if required. If the baggage is too big or too heavy, the airline may send it separately by cargo plane. You may need to pay additional sum if required.
Is 65 inch luggage considered oversized? ›Any bag with a sum of length, width, and height of greater than 62 inches will generally fall into the oversized category.
How much weight can luggage be 62 linear inches? ›Most commonly, checked luggage will have a size restriction of 62 linear inches (height + width + length) and a weight limit of 50 or 70 lbs.
What is largest luggage size? ›Checked Luggage
The most common maximum size bag allowed is 62 linear (total) inches. A common size bag for checking through is: 27" x 21" x 14". Airline carriers will allow overweight, oversize or additional baggage for additional fees.
How to measure 62 linear feet? ›
To measure linear footage, all you need is a tape measure. Just measure the length in inches and then divide the total number of inches by 12 to convert to feet. The resulting number is the linear footage. For this measurement, width and height don't matter!
How many feet is 62 linear inches? ›Solution. This means that you are 5.167 feet tall!
What is the best size luggage for international travel? ›Generally speaking, a 21-inch carry-on (considered an “international” carry-on, as compared to the standard, “domestic” 22-inch size) is a safe choice for most airlines, both domestic and international. Are there any items I can't bring in my suitcase internationally?
Do airports check size of luggage? ›They can be, but more often they are size-checked. We recommend that you ensure your bag is within the weight and size limits that the airline specifies if you want it on board with you. If the staff deem your bag to exceed their carry-on size limit or max weight, they will likely have you check it.
Which airlines allow 2 free checked bags? ›Southwest is the only airline that provides 2 FREE CHECKED BAGS for all fares.
What are the things not allowed in check in baggage? ›- The following items that are banned for carriage on person/hand baggage on board flights operating from civil airports in India; and Indian Registered aircrafts from foreign airports : ...
- Sharp Objects.
- Sporting Goods.
- Guns and Firearms.
- Tools.
- Martial Arts / Self Defense Items.
- Explosive Materials.
The calculation is easy; just add the total of the length plus the width plus the height of the case to calculate its size in linear inches.
What size suitcase is 80 linear inches? ›Maximum size is 9 x 14 x 22 inches (22.9 x 35.6 x 55.9 centimeters) Checked baggage / Hold luggage - Applicable fees per bag increase with number checked. Maximum size is 80 linear inches (203 centimeters) in height + width + length.
What is 60 width in inches? ›Double Check. This means that we multiply 60 x 0.3937 to get, once again, 23.62 inches. Our answer is correct!
How do I know if my checked bag is too big? ›Checked bags must be no longer than 62 linear inches (length + width + depth) and must weigh under 40 pounds. Bags weighing more than 40 pounds will incur additional charges per bag per direction. Bags weighing 41-50 pounds will cost you $50 more and bags weighing 51-100 pounds will cost $100 more.
What if my checked bag is one inch too big? ›
In general, if you're bag is not within the size restrictions at the check-in counter, different airlines will charge you a late check-in fee. The fees for checking your luggage at the gate vary between airlines, but most airlines charge between 30-70$.
What if my luggage is one inch too big? ›If your luggage does not fit in the sizer, you might have to pay a checked bag fee along with the gate checking fee and have your bag transferred to the airplane's cargo. Checked luggage is usually measured with a tape measure, to make sure that it's below 62 linear inches (height + width + depth).
What does 62 linear inch luggage mean? ›What does this mean? The linear dimensions, or total linear length, of your luggage are the sum total of the length, width, and height of your suitcase. This number may not exceed the "Maximum Linear Dimensions" allowed by your airline, typically 62 inches (158cm) for most airlines.
What is a normal large suitcase size? ›Large suitcases are 70 to 79 cm or 27 to 31 inches in height. They have a capacity of 55 L up to 140 L.
What is 60 linear inches? ›Calculate Linear Inches if Using Checked Luggage
So for example, if you measured that your luggage was 28 x 20 x 12 inches, then it would be 60 linear inches in total (28 + 20 + 12 = 60).
That means that if your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds, your airline will charge you a set fee on top of their standard baggage rate. Most airlines also have a weight limit, usually 70-80 pounds, after which they don't accept bags, even for an extra fee.
What is the largest size suitcase you can check on Delta? ›Delta Airlines' (DL) standard checked baggage / hold luggage policy details follow: 2 bags standard, up to 10 bags maximum (up to 4 bags on Delta Connection) Maximum dimensions: 62 inches or 157 centimeters (length + width + height). Maximum weight: 50 pounds or 23 kilograms.
How do I know if my luggage is over 50 pounds? ›If both sides of the scale are balanced, your suitcase weighs around 50 pounds. If the scale tips toward your suitcase, it's overweight. Remove some items to reduce the weight. If the scale tips toward the household items, your suitcase is under the limit.
What does 1 linear foot look like? ›Remember, a linear foot is 12 inches in a straight line.
A linear foot measured on a ruler and two measuring tapes. If you measure something and it's 12 inches long, it's one linear foot in length. If it's 24 inches long, that's two linear feet, etc.
Identifying a linear foot is right in the name. Technically, a linear foot is a measurement that is 12 inches long (so, one foot) and that is measured in a straight line, which is why it's called linear.
How many feet equals linear foot? ›
A linear foot is equal to 12 inches or 1 foot. In terms of metric measurements, a linear foot would be equivalent to 30.48 centimeters. The term “linear” typically refers to measuring something in a straight line, and the term “foot” is used to measure both length and height in the imperial system.
What is a linear foot equal to in inches? ›In the simplest terms, a linear foot is 12 inches—the length of a ruler.
How do you find linear feet from length and width? ›First, determine the length and width of your area. Make sure that your length and width measurements are taken in inches and not centimeters. Then, divide that measurement by 12. So, if you have a measurement of 9 inches, the measurement in linear feet would be 0.75 linear feet (9 divided by 12).
Is it better to get hard or soft luggage? ›Softer suitcases can absorb water and are more susceptible to stains, but they can be cleaned too. If you're traveling through rain or snow, for example, a hard-shell bag will provide better protection for what's inside. A hard-shell bag can be easier to maneuver across gravel or cobblestones too.
What size suitcase to take to Europe? ›If you go on a 2-week trip to Europe, there is a good chance you'll need at least a 25” suitcase, and perhaps even bigger 28” luggage will be more suitable.
Should you wrap your luggage? ›Safety-wise, wrapping luggage in plastic lowers the chance that a worn or overstuffed suitcase will burst or pop open in transit and spill its contents before being reunited with its owner. If you've busted a bag's latch or zipper while traveling, wrapping the bag will at least help you get your belongings home.
How do I measure my checked luggage? ›Measure the height from the top of the bag down to the ground, with the handle retracted (collapsed) as far as possible. Measure width from one side of the bag to the other; some bags are tapered for stability, so make sure you're measuring at the widest point. Then check the bag's depth from front to back.
Can I carry two handbags on a plane? ›Airline rules allow for one carry on bag and one personal item, unless you're flying on a basic economy fare. But we've all seen people selfishly putting two bags in the overhead bin or carrying on more luggage than could possibly be allowed.
Can I bring two purses on a plane? ›Typically in economy, you can bring one carry-on and one personal item. If you bring two bags, one must fit underneath your seat and the other can go into the overhead bin. If you're flying in an upgraded class like business or first, you may be allowed an additional carry-on bag.
How can I avoid extra baggage fees? ›- Pay for additional weight in advance. It's nearly always cheaper to book extra hold luggage in advance rather than paying excess baggage fees at the airport. ...
- Pool baggage with a travel buddy. ...
- Use lightweight luggage. ...
- Maximise your hand luggage allowance.
Can I put full-size shampoo in checked luggage? ›
Typically, travelers put their toiletries in the bag such as shampoo, hair products, make-up and toothpaste. Individuals who want to pack their large bottle of shampoo or full-size toothpaste should pack those items in their checked bags.
Can I put phone charger in checked luggage? ›Do not pack you portable charger (power pack) in hold luggage: Taking your portable phone charger (power pack) on a plane is fine, but just remember to pack it in your hand luggage. Do not put them in your hold luggage as this is not permitted and could result in your luggage not being loaded.
Can I carry deodorant in checked luggage? ›Checked Bags: Yes
The total aggregate quantity per person cannot exceed 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 L (68 fluid ounces). The capacity of each container must not exceed 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces).
Small checked suitcases usually are 23-24 inches on the longest size, medium ones 25-27 inches, and large ones in 28-32 inches. Quite often, suitcases above 30 inches will actually be oversized, because they're over 62 linear inches with wheels and handles included.
Is 32 inch luggage too big? ›It is too big to bring into the cabin. The maximum size for cabin baggage on most airlines is 22 inches, or 55 cm. The maximum size for normal checked baggage is 63 linear inches, or 160 cm. That means that the height, width, and depth measurements must add up to 160 cm or less.
What happens if my checked bag is 1 inch too big? ›In general, if you're bag is not within the size restrictions at the check-in counter, different airlines will charge you a late check-in fee. The fees for checking your luggage at the gate vary between airlines, but most airlines charge between 30-70$.
How do you measure 28 inch luggage? ›28” Case - Height 24" (60cm) x Width 16.4" (41cm) x Depth 9.2" (23cm) approx.
What is an oversized checked bag? ›Any bag with a sum of length, width, and height of greater than 62 inches will generally fall into the oversized category. Oversized baggage fees are usually charged in addition to any standard, excess, or overweight fee.
What are the dimensions of an oversized suitcase? ›Generally, an overweight or oversized piece of check-in luggage is one that exceeds the standard baggage weight and size limits set by the airline. British Airways, for one, has a maximum standard checked baggage of 35 x 30 x 17 inches (90 x 75 x 43 cm) – anything larger than this is considered oversized.
How many inches is an extra large suitcase? ›The size of an extra-large cabin suitcase is around 56 cm or 22 inches in height, with a capacity of up to 50 litres. This is more spacious than the standard large cabin suitcase, adding an extra 5 litres in capacity.
How heavy is a 30 inch luggage? ›
Large lightweight suitcases tend to weigh between 8.5 and 13 pounds, measuring approximately 30 inches. Most medium-lightweight suitcases, on the other hand, weigh between 5 and 7 pounds.
How big is a 30 inch luggage? ›| Size | Height | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Large | 76cm / 30 inches | 48cm / 19 inches |
| Medium | 67cm / 26 inches | 45cm / 18 inches |
| Compact | 63cm / 25 inches | 36cm / 14 inches |
| Cabin | 48cm / 19 inches | 32cm / 13 inches |
How big can my checked baggage be? Each checked bag can weigh 50 pounds or less and be 62 inches in size (length + width + height).
Do airlines enforce checked baggage size? ›Do airlines really measure checked luggage? They reserve the right to, but they almost never do as long as whatever you're checking in sort of looks like a suitcase or box and is under the weight limit. Suitcase manufacturers actually go to some effort to make sure their biggest bags don't exceed the limits.
Are airlines strict with bag sizes? ›Though you might find an inch or two of a difference with various airlines, the standard domestic carry-on luggage size is 22" x 14" x 9", which includes the handle and the wheels. This size limit ensures your bag — and ideally everyone else's — will be able to be stored safely in the overhead bin for your flight.
Can you check an oversized bag? ›Customers who travel with checked bags measuring more than 62 linear inches (158 centimeters, total length + width + height) will be charged per bag depending on the destination. Use our baggage calculator to figure out any service charges for oversized bags.
Do airlines accept 28 inch luggage? ›The most common maximum size bag allowed is 62 linear (total) inches. A common size bag for checking through is: 27" x 21" x 14". Airline carriers will allow overweight, oversize or additional baggage for additional fees.
Is 28 inch luggage large? ›28" - 32" Suitcase
These are very large suitcases meant for trips exceeding a week. They have a tremendous capacity for anything you would like to travel with.
The larger the suitcase, the heavier it gets, though maybe less than you might expect. Large lightweight suitcases (28 -30 inches) usually weigh between 8.5 – 13 pounds (3.9 – 5.9 kg).