How big can your checked luggage be to fly

Quick recommendation: Most full-service carriers permit a single piece with total linear dimensions up to 158 cm / 62 in (length + width + height) and weight up to 23 kg / 50 lb in economy; premium cabins or higher-tier fares commonly allow up to 32 kg / 70 lb per piece.

Measure with wheels and handles included: add length, width and height (L + W + H) to get the linear total. Use a luggage scale at home to verify weight before leaving for the airport; airports enforce limits at check-in and charge fees if a bag exceeds the allowance.

Rule types: many carriers use a “piece” system (a fixed number of bags with per-piece weight limits), while others use a “weight” system (total kilograms per passenger). Low-cost operators frequently cap each bag at 15–23 kg / 33–50 lb and enforce strict dimension limits; overweight surcharges typically range from $50 to $200, oversize fees commonly run $75 to $250. Bags over 32 kg / 70 lb are often refused for regular hold loading and must move as cargo.

Practical steps: check the exact allowance printed on your ticket or carrier website for the specific route and fare class, pack heavier items near wheels, redistribute weight across multiple pieces to avoid overweight fines, and declare sports equipment or musical instruments in advance because separate rules and higher charges usually apply. For connecting itineraries, follow the most restrictive allowance within the itinerary to avoid unexpected charges at transfer airports.

Measuring a Hold Bag Accurately (Include Wheels, Handles and Pockets)

Measure the fully packed suitcase with a flexible tape measure, including wheels, fixed handles and all external pockets; add height + width + depth and confirm the total is within the carrier’s stated linear-size limit (typical maximum: 158 cm / 62 in).

Step 1 – prepare the case: pack the contents, zip every external pocket, retract the telescopic handle into its lowest position unless the carrier specifies otherwise, and place the case on a flat, level surface with wheels touching the floor.

Step 2 – measure height: run the tape from the floor (bottom of the wheels or feet) to the highest rigid point on the top (this includes wheel housings, top handles and any fixed protrusions). Record in centimetres and inches.

Step 3 – measure width: measure the widest point across the front face of the case, including side pockets, corner protectors and any protruding buckles or straps that cannot be removed during transport.

Step 4 – measure depth: measure from the front face to the back, capturing expansion zips and outer compartments. If the case has an expansion zipper, measure both zipped and expanded states and use the larger value for compliance checks.

Step 5 – sum the three dimensions and add a margin for measurement error: allow at least +2–3 cm (≈1 in) above the carrier limit to avoid borderline refusals at the airport; if the sum exceeds the limit, consider redistributing items or switching to a smaller case.

Additional rules: detachable pouches count only when fastened; external straps tightened flush with the shell are included; removable wheels or handles are included while attached. Use a cloth tape measure for accuracy; digital calipers are unnecessary.

Quick checklist: packed and zipped, handle stowed, measure wheels-to-top, measure side-to-side at the widest point, measure front-to-back including expansion, convert to the unit requested by the carrier, and keep a photo of the measurements for reference at check-in.

What “linear dimensions” mean and why 158 cm (62 in) is common

Recommendation: keep the sum of length + width + height at or below 158 cm (62 in).

Definition: linear dimensions = the total of the three exterior measurements (longest side + perpendicular width + maximum height). 62 inches × 2.54 = 157.48 cm, rounded to 158 cm for regulatory simplicity.

• Reason 1 – industry standardization: international baggage rules use 158 cm as a unified threshold so carriers, ground handlers and ticketing systems share a single size class for pricing and automated sorting.
• Reason 2 – equipment fit: most unit load devices (ULDs), cargo holds, conveyor belts and baggage carts are optimized around items that do not exceed 158 cm in combined dimensions; items above that need manual handling or special stowage.
• Reason 3 – fee threshold: many airlines apply oversize surcharges at anything greater than 158 cm, so that number functions as a practical cut-off between standard allowance and special-item rates.

Quick numeric examples:

• 80 × 40 × 38 cm → 158 cm (meets the threshold)
• 75 × 45 × 38 cm → 158 cm (meets the threshold)
• 90 × 50 × 30 cm → 170 cm (likely oversize)

Operational note: oversized items often require advance notification, different handling fees, or transport as air cargo. Sport equipment and musical instruments frequently follow separate acceptance rules or dimensional caps.

Practical suggestion: select collapsible or compact items for air transport to avoid surcharge classes; for example, compact sun-shading options reduce risk of exceeding limits – see best deals on beach umbrellas and best reverse inverted umbrella.

Final step: verify the specific carrier policy and the route’s baggage table before booking to avoid unexpected oversize charges or refusal at check-in.

Major airlines compared: size limits for legacy, low-cost and international carriers

Recommendation: choose a legacy or full-service global carrier when a free hold bag with a 23 kg (50 lb) allowance and standard 158 cm linear dimensions is needed; use low-cost operators only if prepared to prepay fees, accept 20–23 kg weight caps and stricter per-piece restrictions.

Practical steps: check fare type for piece versus weight systems, confirm whether connections use different rules, prepay hold-bag allowance online when available, and weigh suitcases at home to avoid airport surcharges.

When a bag is considered oversized or irregular and effects on transport

If a piece exceeds 158 cm (62 in) linear or has an irregular shape (surfboards, bicycles, musical instruments, wheelchairs, items with fixed protrusions), it will normally be classified as oversized or irregular and subject to extra fees, special handling and routing restrictions.

Irregular classification applies to items that do not sit flat in standard conveyors or containers: cylindrical objects, long or tapered objects, single-piece sports gear, cases with external frames, and objects with removable wheels or handles that cannot be fully stowed. Airlines often require advance notice or special booking for these items.

Operational effects: oversized/irregular pieces frequently bypass standard baggage belts, are tagged for special baggage offices, loaded into cargo holds with manual handling, or transported on separate pallets. On regional or small aircraft such items may be refused for safety, weight-and-balance or compartment-size reasons and rebooked on later flights or surface transport.

Typical extra charges and limits (ranges for planning): general oversized fee threshold at >158 cm (62 in); oversize surcharges commonly US$50–200 domestic, US$150–400 international. Dedicated sports or instrument fees frequently fall in the US$50–250 range. Weight rules interact: many carriers assess overweight >23 kg (50 lb) or >32 kg (70 lb) with separate fees or refusal. Interline and connection segments: each carrier’s policy applies and fees can stack.

Practical steps to reduce problems: pre-declare oversized or non-standard pieces during booking; prepay fees when possible; use rigid hard-shell cases sized to airline limits; secure and pad protruding parts; remove or secure detachable batteries (spare lithium batteries must travel in the cabin; spares >100 Wh require airline approval and >160 Wh are prohibited). For single-piece dimensions above ~200 cm (79 in) or mass above 32 kg (70 lb), consider freight or specialist couriers rather than air hold transport.

At airport: present the item at bag drop/special baggage desk rather than gate, obtain the special handling tag/document, photograph the packed piece, keep receipts and declare high-value contents for insurance. Expect longer processing times and possible delivery to a special collection area at destination instead of standard baggage claim.

Typical oversized baggage fees and carrier calculation of extra charges

Pre-pay oversize or overweight surcharges online to reduce costs by about 20–60% versus airport counter prices.

Common fee structures (ranges)

Weight overage: most carriers use weight bands. Typical domestic fees: $75–$200 for items between 23–32 kg (50–70 lb); items above that often require cargo rates or refused carriage. International routes often apply higher bands: $100–$300 for the same weight bands on transoceanic flights.

Dimension overage: many airlines apply a flat oversize surcharge once linear dimensions exceed 158 cm (62 in); typical amounts are $100–$250 on domestic/intra-region routes and $150–$400 on long-haul services. Low-cost carriers may have lower online rates (€25–€120) but jump at the airport (€50–€200).

Irregular/odd-shape items (bicycles, skis, surfboards, musical instruments): fees commonly range from $50 to $400 per item depending on route and whether the item is accepted as an included allowance or treated as an extra piece.

How carriers calculate charges (methods and examples)

Three primary methods:

1) Flat oversize surcharge: any article exceeding the size threshold pays a set fee. Example: linear 160 cm → flat fee $150 regardless of excess amount.

2) Tiered bands: fees rise by bands of weight or dimension (e.g., 158–200 cm = $150, 200–300 cm = $300). Useful for very large items that require special handling.

3) Per-kilogram excess: some international or regional carriers charge per kg over the allowance. Example formula: Fee = excess_kg × rate_per_kg. If allowance 23 kg and actual weight 28 kg, excess = 5 kg; at $30/kg → $150.

Many airlines combine methods: a bag over size threshold triggers a flat oversize fee plus an additional overweight charge if it also exceeds the weight limit. Online booking engines and check-in kiosks often compute both and display totals; airport staff may apply higher manual rates.

Additional cost drivers: airport counter surcharges, route specific taxes, special handling fees for fragile or heavy items, and airline-specific minimums for sporting equipment. Seat class, elite status, and co-branded credit cards often waive or reduce these fees.

Practical thresholds for decision-making: if projected total extra exceeds $200–$250, compare with courier rates; freight or ground shipping is frequently cheaper for very heavy/oversize articles. For single-item sport equipment, pre-booked fees are usually the best value.

For unrelated mechanical procedures, consult this external resource: step by step guide to fill a paintball tank with an air compressor.

Reduce suitcase dimensions: remove parts and repack to avoid oversize fees

Remove wheels and retractable handle when the bag exceeds an airline sizer; doing so typically reduces one linear dimension by about 2–6 cm (0.8–2.4 in) and overall thickness by 2–4 cm (0.8–1.6 in), often enough to drop under a fee threshold.

Detach or modify external fittings

Unscrew spinner wheels (Phillips or Torx driver), lift out telescoping handle assembly and store inside cabin baggage or wrapped in clothing; expect to save 2–6 cm on height and 1–3 cm on width depending on construction. Remove detachable shoulder straps, external pockets, and luggage tags that protrude; zip-off pockets can shave 1–2 cm per side. For hard-shell cases with glued trim, carefully pry off plastic bumpers or corner guards–this can reduce protrusion by 5–10 mm per corner but may void warranties.

If tools aren’t available, fold or tuck the handle into its recess and fasten with heavy-duty packing tape or a luggage strap to prevent reopening; secure removed parts in a clear plastic bag and place in carry-on or leave with someone at departure point.

Repack smarter to compress volume

Use vacuum compression bags for non-fragile textiles to cut packed volume by 30–50% (expect higher savings for bulky sweaters). Replace bulky items with lightweight alternatives: one packable down jacket replaces two sweaters while taking ~40–60% less space. Roll garments tightly and layer packing cubes or internal compression straps to keep a uniform profile–this reduces voids that force bulging.

Fit socks and small items inside shoes, collapse shoe cavities with soft items, and use flat toiletries (travel-size bottles, thin refill pouches) to avoid irregular shapes. Wear the heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane to lower carried weight and internal volume. Choose soft-sided duffels or fabric suitcases when proximity to a sizer matters; their compressibility often trims external measurements by several centimetres compared with rigid cases.

Final check: after modifications and repacking, place the bag in a home sizer or against a wall and measure the three linear dimensions with a tape; if only a fraction of an inch over the limit, consider removing one more external item or transferring a dense object to hand baggage rather than paying an oversize surcharge.

FAQ:

What are the typical size and weight limits for checked luggage on passenger flights?

Many international carriers use a 62 linear inch (158 cm) limit for checked bags, which is the sum of length + width + height and must include wheels and handles. Weight limits commonly used for economy class are 23 kg (50 lb); higher allowances such as 32 kg (70 lb) may apply for premium cabins or some routes. Low-cost, regional and charter airlines often set smaller size or weight ceilings and may charge for every checked piece. Always check the specific airline’s published allowance for your ticket before you travel.

How should I measure my suitcase to make sure it meets checked baggage rules?

Measure the bag from the highest point to the lowest, then measure width and depth and add the three numbers together. Include wheels, handles and any external pockets or protruding bits in each measurement. If the bag has an expandable zipper, measure it when fully expanded if you plan to pack it that way. Airlines usually assess external dimensions, so packed or empty does not change how they measure. Use a tape measure and compare the result with the carrier’s stated limits.

What can happen at check-in if my checked bag is oversized or overweight, and how much might I pay?

If a bag exceeds the airline’s permitted dimensions or weight, options vary by carrier and airport staff procedures. Typical outcomes include paying an oversized or overweight fee, being asked to transfer items into another bag, purchasing an additional checked piece, or having the item refused for carriage and shipped as cargo. Fees differ widely: overweight charges for international flights often range from about $75 to $200 per bag, while oversize surcharges can run roughly $100 to $300; very large or unusually shaped items can cost more or require cargo handling. To reduce risk of high charges, redistribute items between bags, move some items to carry-on allowance if permitted, use a smaller bag, or arrange freight/shipping for bulky goods before travel. Frequent flyer status or certain fare types can change allowances, so review your ticket rules ahead of time.

Do checked baggage rules vary by airline, route or aircraft type, and what should I do for mixed-carrier itineraries?

Yes. Airlines set their own checked baggage size and weight rules, and regional operators, turboprops and low-cost carriers frequently apply stricter limits than large international airlines. Special items such as sports gear, musical instruments or oversized equipment often fall under separate conditions. For itineraries involving multiple airlines, the allowance that applies can depend on how the ticket was issued and which carrier accepts the bag at check-in; when in doubt, confirm baggage rules with the airline that handles your first checked segment and check the policies of each carrier you will fly with. If you have unusual dimensions or heavy items, contact the airlines in advance to avoid surprises at the airport.