Michael Turner
Short answer: For most economy fares keep each bag placed in the aircraft hold at or below 50 lb (23 kg). Premium cabins and many international fare classes allow up to 70 lb (32 kg) per piece without an overweight surcharge. Overweight surcharges are applied as follows: 51–70 lb (23–32 kg) – $100; 71–100 lb (32–45 kg) – $200; pieces above 100 lb (45 kg) are not accepted for regular baggage handling. (Status: June 2024.)
Linear-size limit for a piece placed in the hold is 62 inches / 158 cm (length + width + height). Items exceeding 62 inches and up to 115 inches are assessed an oversize fee of $200; items larger than 115 inches typically require cargo arrangements. Standard dimensional and weight limits apply per piece regardless of how many free pieces a fare or elite benefit provides.
Elite-tier perks and premium tickets usually add the number of free pieces but do not raise the per-piece weight cap above 70 lb (32 kg). Certain international itineraries permit two 70 lb pieces as standard for checked allowances on specific fare families; verify the allowance printed on your ticket or reservation for route-specific differences.
Practical steps to avoid fees and denied carriage: weigh each bag on a home scale and on a luggage scale at departure; redistribute heavy contents into a second piece or into your carry-on (observe carry-on size/weight rules); wear the bulkiest items; use compression packing or vacuum bags only where allowed; ship truly heavy items via courier or freight when weight will exceed 100 lb. Use soft-sided bags for slightly oversized linear measurements to reduce oversize risk.
Carry documentation of high-value or fragile items and declare sporting gear or oversize equipment in advance. For final confirmation and route-specific exceptions, consult the carrier’s baggage policy page or contact reservations before travel to confirm current fees and limits.
Maximum mass per hold bag on the airline
Keep each hold bag at or below 23 kg (50 lb) for Main Cabin travel; premium cabin tickets generally allow up to 32 kg (70 lb) per bag without an overweight surcharge.
- Common weight bands and typical surcharges (fees vary by route and fare class):
- 0–23 kg (0–50 lb): within standard allowance – only the regular bag fee (if any) applies.
- 23.1–32 kg (50.1–70 lb): overweight surcharge – commonly around $100 per bag.
- 32.1–45.4 kg (70.1–100 lb): heavy surcharge – commonly around $200; acceptance may be limited and counter inspection required.
- >45.4 kg (>100 lb): not accepted as hold baggage; must be shipped via cargo/freight services.
Dimensional limit: total linear dimensions (length + width + height) should not exceed 62 in / 157 cm for standard pieces. Oversize fees typically apply for items above that threshold; very large items may be refused from the hold and require cargo shipment.
- Weigh bags at home with a luggage scale and aim for 1–2 lb (0.5–1 kg) below the limit to avoid surprises at the counter.
- Distribute dense items (books, shoes, electronics) across multiple cases to stay under per-bag limits.
- Replace rigid suitcases with soft-sided bags to gain a little flexible packing room when close to limits.
- Purchase an extra bag or upgrade fare class if regular surcharges exceed the cost of an additional allowance.
- For items exceeding 100 lb (45.4 kg) or oversized specialty equipment, arrange freight shipment in advance and check customs/import rules for international moves.
- Elite program allowances may waive bag fees but do not usually raise the per-bag weight cap; verify your ticket or membership benefits for exact privileges.
- Pay overweight/oversize fees during online check-in when possible to avoid higher airport counter charges.
Verify the carrier’s official baggage policy for your specific itinerary and fare class before departure, since allowances and fee amounts differ by route, ticket type and frequent-traveler status.
Carrier baggage weight limits by fare class and route
Quick rule: domestic U.S./Canada Main Cabin pieces – 23 kg (50 lb) each; premium cabins – 32 kg (70 lb) each.
Per-piece allowance by fare category
- Main Cabin / Basic Economy: 23 kg (50 lb) per hold piece on most domestic and short-haul international sectors; Basic Economy often has no free piece allowance despite the same per-piece limit.
- Comfort+/Premium Economy (where sold): typically 23 kg (50 lb) for short routes; on long-haul transoceanic sectors Premium Economy often permits 32 kg (70 lb).
- First / Business / Premium Business / Carrier’s premium cabins: 32 kg (70 lb) per piece on most intercontinental flights; some premium fares on transatlantic/transpacific trips allow multiple pieces at this limit.
- Infant/child checked items (strollers, car seats): treated separately; weight limits vary by route – verify specific allowances for the itinerary.
Route-specific notes, overweight handling and elite benefits
- Transatlantic and transpacific: economy normally 23 kg (50 lb); business/first/premium economy normally 32 kg (70 lb).
- South America/Caribbean/Central America: most economy fares follow the 23 kg standard; premium classes commonly allow 32 kg.
- Overweight ranges: 23–32 kg (50–70 lb) – usually permitted for a surcharge; >32 kg (70 lb) – generally not accepted as a standard hold piece and must be moved as air cargo or via special handling (exceptions possible on specific routes or with approval).
- Oversize (linear dimensions) and piece-count limits remain separate from weight rules; extra-piece fees or size surcharges apply per route.
- SkyMiles Medallion / elite status: additional free pieces may be granted on many routes, but the per-piece weight allowance normally remains 23 kg/32 kg according to fare class.
- Codeshare and partner-carried segments: the operating carrier’s rules (not the marketing carrier’s) apply for weight and acceptance – confirm per flight segment.
Confirm exact per-piece limits, surcharges and route exceptions on the carrier’s baggage page for your specific itinerary before travel.
Exact overweight and oversize fee brackets and charge application
Keep each bag at or below 50 lb (23 kg); overweight surcharges begin above 50 lb and apply per piece as follows (domestic U.S. amounts, USD): 51–70 lb (23.1–32 kg) – $100; 71–100 lb (32.1–45 kg) – $200; items over 100 lb (45 kg) are not accepted on regular passenger flights and must be shipped as cargo or freight.
Size is measured as linear dimensions (length + width + height). Standard allowance ends at 62 in (158 cm). Oversize fees apply as follows (domestic U.S. amounts, USD): 63–115 in (160–292 cm) – $200; items exceeding 115 in usually require cargo handling and special booking; some aircraft and routes will refuse acceptance.
How charges stack and when they’re assessed
Fees are cumulative: the per-piece base fee for the route/fare class is charged first, then overweight and/or oversize surcharges are added. Both an overweight and an oversize fee will be applied if a piece exceeds both thresholds. All fees are assessed at airport check-in or at baggage drop; prepaying the base piece fee online does not waive overweight or oversize surcharges.
Measurement, rounding and practical tips
Scales and tape measures at counters use pounds and inches; any registration above a bracket’s limit triggers the next fee tier (e.g., 50.1 lb → overweight). To avoid extra costs, weigh and measure bags at home, split contents between pieces, or ship bulky/very heavy items. Use sturdy protective cases for long or fragile gear; consider accessories such as a best modern looking cantilever umbrella for weather protection of outer items. For route- or membership-specific exceptions, consult the carrier’s official policy before travel.
Precise weighing and measuring of your bag at home and at the airport
Use a digital hook scale with 0.1 lb (0.05 kg) resolution and tare/hold functions for the most reliable preflight readings; models with a strap plus an integrated tape measure are most practical for travel purposes.
Home weighing technique: place the scale on a hard, flat surface and confirm zero. If the suitcase fits, weigh it empty first to establish baseline. For full packs use the two-step body method: weigh yourself barefoot, record value; pick up the packed bag in the normal carry position and weigh again; subtract the first value from the second. Repeat three times and use the median. Typical bathroom scales have ±0.5 lb (±0.25 kg) accuracy; cheap models may deviate ±1 lb (±0.5 kg). If precise grams matter, use a luggage hook scale instead.
Measurement routine for dimensions: zip all external pockets, retract or lock handles as the carrier requires, set wheels in natural position and measure the longest points for length, width and depth. Add the three numbers to obtain the linear dimension total. Example: 55 cm + 35 cm + 22 cm = 112 cm (≈44.1 in). For inch-only rulers multiply cm by 0.3937. Note that external pockets, side handles and protruding wheels are normally included in official measurements.
At the airport bring your own scale; self-service kiosks may show slightly different readings because of calibration or placement. If the kiosk result is borderline, ask the check-in agent or baggage desk to reweigh on the certified scale. If over the allowance by a small margin, redistribute dense items into a personal item or wear the heaviest garments onto the aircraft (coat, boots). For larger excess move items into a second bag or consider shipping items ahead.
Packing tips to reduce surprises: place dense items low and near the wheels to improve balance; use compression cubes to control volume but not as a substitute for weighing since vacuuming reduces size, not mass. Use a small kitchen scale for electronics and toiletries to track item-level mass. Launder fewer garments before travel to avoid duplicate packing; a compact pre-trip wash helps – see best front loading washing machine with sterilise cycle for an option with a hygiene program.
Immediate options at check-in for bags over the airline’s limits: repacking, redistributing, shipping
If your bag exceeds the airline’s published weight or size limits, choose one of three actions at the check-in counter: repack on the spot, move items into a second piece or personal item, or arrange same-day/ground shipping.
Repacking and redistribution
Request a counter scale and a packing surface. Priority removals: shoes (0.9–1.8 kg / 2–4 lb per pair), full toiletry bottles (0.45–1.4 kg / 1–3 lb total), one or two hardback books (0.45–1.8 kg / 1–4 lb each), spare laptop/tablet chargers (0.05–0.45 kg / 0.1–1 lb). Transfer those items into a carry-on or a second bag until the main piece meets the limit. Put denser items near the top of the carry-on to keep the checked piece lighter. Wearing a heavy jacket and boots reduces checked weight by about 1–2 kg / 2–4 lb. Compression packing saves space but yields minimal weight reduction; prioritize moving high-density items out. If purchasing a second bag at the airport, compare that fee to the airline’s overweight charge before deciding; consider last-minute replacement options and deals such as best luggage deals black fridahy.
Shipping from the airport
Ask the airline’s cargo desk and nearby courier counters (FedEx, UPS, DHL) for immediate rates. Typical domestic ground for a 10–12 kg (22–26 lb) box is about $20–70; expedited service ranges roughly $60–200 depending on distance and dimensions. For international shipments, complete customs forms at the counter and confirm pickup schedules; some airport couriers handle export documentation for an additional fee. Photograph the item, retain all receipts, label the parcel with contact and flight details, and request tracking. Choose shipping when its total cost plus handling time is lower than combined overweight/oversize penalties and the risk of delayed arrival is acceptable.
Weight rules for special items: sports gear, musical instruments and pet crates
Recommendation: keep any single-piece sports item at or below 50 lb (23 kg) to align with standard bag thresholds; expect an overweight surcharge for 51–70 lb (24–32 kg)</strong) pieces and plan cargo shipment for items over 100 lb (45 kg).
Sports gear – how carriers typically treat different equipment
Skis/snowboards: place both boards in a rigid or padded ski bag; most carriers accept one set per passenger as a single item if total weight ≤ 50 lb (23 kg). Oversize fees commonly apply for length or total linear dimensions above 62 in (158 cm).
Golf clubs: use a hard case, keep club head and shafts immobilized; aim for ≤ 50 lb (23 kg). Expect a flat sports-item fee rather than per-piece baggage pricing on many routes.
Bicycles: disassemble, remove pedals/wheels, pack into a bike box with frame protection; if weight exceeds 50–70 lb (23–32 kg) notify the carrier in advance and book cargo for items approaching or exceeding 100 lb (45 kg).
Surfboards, kayaks, paddleboards: these are treated as oversize; secure in a rigid or reinforced board bag, pad nose and tail, and anticipate both oversize and overweight charges if length or weight thresholds are exceeded.
Musical instruments and pet crates – acceptance rules, packing and alternatives
Instruments: if the case fits the overhead compartment or under the seat, bring it onboard as a carry item. For instruments that must be stowed in the hold, treat them as a single checked item for fee/weight purposes – keep instrument+case ≤ 50 lb (23 kg) when possible. For high-value or fragile pieces consider purchasing an extra seat (measure case dimensions against seat measurements beforehand) or routing via specialized freight with climate control.
Instrument protection checklist: use a rigid case, pad all contact points, tape loose parts, remove bows/strings into a separate soft case, photograph the instrument and record serial numbers, buy insurance that covers transit damage.
Pet crates (aircraft hold / cargo): follow IATA Live Animals rules – rigid crate, ventilation on three sides, solid leak-proof floor, secure door with metal fasteners, internal length allowing the animal to stand and turn, and adequate bedding. Maximum combined weight (animal + crate) accepted into the aircraft hold varies; if the total approaches or exceeds 100 lb (45 kg) arrange cargo service. In-cabin carriers must keep combined pet+carrier under the carrier’s in-cabin limit (commonly ≤ 20 lb / 9 kg).
Pet travel checklist: obtain current health certificate and required vaccinations, label crate with name/address/phone and orientation arrows, include absorbent material and a water container accessible from outside, remove collars/harnesses that could catch, reserve space early and confirm seasonal or route restrictions (temperature/acceptance windows).
Booking tip: reserve sports-item slots, instrument acceptance and pet space before ticketing; declare dimensions and gross weight when making the reservation to avoid refusal at the airport and to get accurate fee quotes.
Waivers and exceptions: Medically necessary items, military travel and elite status allowances
Request a waiver at least 72 hours before departure through the airline’s Special Assistance or medical desk and upload a treating-provider letter with equipment dimensions and battery specifications; without advance approval standard excess charges may apply.
Medically necessary equipment – practical rules
Mobility aids (wheelchairs, scooters, walkers), prosthetic devices, CPAP units, portable oxygen concentrators and medication coolers are typically accepted without a piece allowance charge and are accepted for stowage outside normal baggage limits. Spare lithium-ion batteries must travel in the cabin: up to 100 Wh permitted without approval; 100–160 Wh require carrier approval and are usually limited to two spare batteries per passenger. Label equipment with owner name, medical contact, and include a brief prescription or doctor’s letter stating device necessity, dimensions and weight.
| Item | Typical waiver | Documentation | Best contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobility aid (folding or non-folding) | Accepted free; may be gate-checked or stowed in cargo | None usually required, but bring physician note if non-standard | Special Assistance / Airport ramp agent |
| Prosthetics / braces | Not counted as an extra piece | Prescription or provider letter | Special Assistance |
| CPAP / portable oxygen concentrator | Allowed as carry-on or medical device; not charged | Prescription and device specs; oxygen provider coordination if required | Medical desk |
| Medication requiring refrigeration | Allowed; small coolers accepted in cabin | Doctor’s letter and temperature requirements | Special Assistance |
| Service animal | Permitted in cabin without a passenger piece allowance | Carrier’s service animal form, current vaccinations | Customer service / Accessibility desk |
Military and elite traveler allowances – action checklist
Active-duty military traveling on orders are commonly granted additional complimentary pieces and weight exceptions; present military ID plus orders at the counter and ask for military-travel verification to avoid excess charges. Elite-tier members receive route- and tier-dependent benefits such as extra pieces or increased per-piece weight limits–verify allowances on the reservation page or call elite services for written confirmation when scheduling a waiver.
At the airport: present printed medical documentation and the airline’s approval email, request a gate-check tag or equipment receipt, photograph equipment condition before handing over, and keep removable batteries and essential meds in the cabin. If a waiver is denied, request escalation to the station manager and document the interaction for potential fee reversal after travel.
