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Airline Baggage Restrictions
If you're one of those travelers who comes to the gate loaded down with a couple of carry-on bags, a camera case, AND a laptop computer - better take note.
Airlines have now implemented some sweeping new limits on carry-on baggage. The airlines began limiting some coach and bargain travelers to only one carry-on bag plus a "small addition" such as a purse or laptop computer. (Yes, that's right, a purse is considered carry-on -- and so is a briefcase). Travelers are advised to check whether these new regulations are in place before preparing to board their flights. To avoid any unnecessary hassles, make sure your carry-ons do not exceed airline size restrictions. The time to do this is before you arrive at the airport!
Current Baggage Allowances
These allowances are not definitive but will give you a good general idea of the baggage allowances of most major U.S. airlines.
Most major airlines on domestic U.S. flights will allow a free baggage allowance of three pieces (combined checked and carry-on baggage, with usually a maximum of 2 pieces to be used as carry-on pieces).
 | Carry-on baggage must fit under the seat or in an overhead compartment. A good rule of thumb is that the bag should measure no more than 9" x 14" x 22" (total dimensions) and weigh no more than 40 pounds. A word of caution: Wheeled suitcases with telescoping handles are very popular today, particularly in the carry-on size. You may be asked to check these pieces, on certain flights, because there may not be enough room on the plane for everyone to bring on this type of baggage. |
| Checked baggage should generally not exceed a linear dimension (length+width+height) of 62" and a weight of 70 lbs. (each piece). Additional pieces of checked baggage may have lighter and smaller restrictions. |
Most airlines will allow oversize or overweight baggage or additional baggage for an additional fee which varies depending on the situation.
International flights generally have the same size and weight allowances but may cut down on the number of pieces that can be checked. Also allowance variations can differ depending on the destination country.
These policies reflect an industry-wide concern about carry-on luggage. In recent years, travelers, worried about possible delays and seeking to keep their valuables nearby, have routinely shoved more and bigger bags into the passenger compartments of airplanes. This has strained storage space, slowed down loading, and sometimes created safety hazards. In fact, luggage falling from overhead bins is causing an alarming number of injuries.
As always, if you have additional travel tips you would like to share with others, or if you have a question that we should add to our list, please e-Mail it to us.
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