BAGGAGE AND CARRY-ON TRAVEL TIPS (print)
In these days of heightened security, high fuel costs, delayed and even crowded flights, the airlines are paying close attention to carry-on restrictions. If luggage exceeds the allowable weight or dimensional requirements, that luggage will most likely be checked, possibly delayed and/or unfortunately, subject to additional fees. The following information should be considered when packing carry-on baggage.
This article serves as a guideline and subject to verification as airlines may choose to (with or without notice) change their restrictions as time progresses.
To prep bags for flight:
- ID tag should be placed on each bag with appropriate information (specifically, the name of the ticketed passenger for that flight). It is ideal for travelers to place another ID tag inside each bag in case the outer tag is damaged or lost.
- Old destination (stickers) tags should be removed from all luggage. This will help prevent luggage from being loaded on the wrong plane. Bags should be checked for the appropriate destination tags (if checked). Receipts for each of the appropriate checked bags should be verified before leaving the service counter or curbside check-in area.
- Contents of each bag (including the value of the bag itself) should be cataloged if items of significant value will be carried. Should baggage get lost or destroyed, such a list is desirable for any claim. Items of sentimental value should be carried on if at all possible.
General rules of thumb that apply to most airlines:
- Baggage must fit under the airline seat or in the overhead compartment
- Keeping the bag within this size range, 9 x 14 x 22”, generally will accommodate most under-seat or bin sizes
- Personal items generally mean a purse, laptop carrier, or diaper bag
- Restricting the weight of baggage (the carry on and one personal carry-on) to less than 45lbs. meets many airline requirements
CARRY-ON GUIDELINES BY AIRLINE
| AIRLINE |
MAX # CARRY-ON ITEMS |
BAG SIZE |
COMBINED CARRY-ON WEIGHT |
ADD’L INFO |
| ALASKA AIR |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 51 inches (130cm) |
n/a |
ALL bags/items must fit into provided bag “sizer” |
| AMERICA WEST |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45 inches (115cm) |
n/a |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| AMERICAN |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45 inches (115cm) |
40lbs. (18kg) |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| CONTINENTAL |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 51 inches (130cm) |
40lbs. (18kg) |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| DELTA |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45 inches (115cm) |
40lbs. (18kg) |
|
| FRONTIER |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
49 LINEAR INCHES |
35lbs. |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| NORTHWEST |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45 inches (115cm) |
n/a |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| SOUTHWEST |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 50 inches
(126 cm) |
n/a |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| UNITED |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45 inches (115CM) |
n/a |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| US AIRWAYS |
1 + 1 PERSONAL |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45inches
(115cm) |
n/a |
Personal item max. size cannot exceed
36 linear inches |
| BRITISH AIRWAYS |
1 |
MAX. OF 46 LINEAR INCHES (115cm) |
13lbs. |
First & Business
Classes allowed 2
Carry-on bags |
| EL-AL |
1 |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 50 inches (126cm) |
17lbs. |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
| LUFTHANSA |
1 |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45 inches (115CM) |
17.5 lbs. |
First & Business
Classes allowed 2
Carry-on bags |
| QANTAS |
1 |
MAX. OF
L + W + H
= 45 inches (115CM) |
15lbs (7kg) |
Must fit under seat
or in the overhead bin |
Checked Baggage
Most U.S. Domestic flights allow two checked bags for each ticketed passenger and either/any bag should not exceed the linear dimensions of 62 linear inches. The maximum weight restriction for most airlines is now 50lbs. per bag. Oversized or overweight baggage is often subject to additional fees. It is advisable to check with the airline if oversize or excessively heavy bags are planned on being taken.
International Flights/Carriers
International carriers often have similar restrictions for flights (domestic). International or overseas flights might have a more stringent weight restriction or allow fewer bags. Travel on multiple carriers might have different allowances so the most restrictive guidelines should be followed.
Damages to Baggage
Baggage liability as set forth by the airlines:
- U.S. Domestic – per passenger - $1250.00 for loss, delay or damage
- International Flights – averages to $20/kg/$9.07lb or a maximum of $634.90 per bag
- Unchecked baggage is limited to $400.00
Most airlines specify that they cannot be held responsible for valuable items (like currency, jewelry, computers, electronics or cameras) that is either checked or in carry-on bags. Currently, the Federal limit on claims is $2500 for any permanently lost baggage. Items of significant value should be insured.
If a bag becomes lost or damaged or delayed, it important to make a claim with the airline, immediately. Most airlines will not accept claims unless they are made within 24-48 hours of a flight. Airlines do not tend to cover minor abrasions or cuts, normal wear and tear including some soiling, dents or damage to or loss of parts that stick out on a bag (meaning wheels, footers, handles, straps, etc.). The limit claims to bags that are oversized/stuffed or if damage stems from a defect by manufacturer.
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