Baggage Basics
Each airline sets its own baggage rules -- allowances, size limits and fees -- and these can differ a great deal by carrier, route, fare class and loyalty status. Airlines-Deal does not set baggage policies and is not responsible for baggage fees or restrictions imposed by airlines. What follows is general guidance to help you get ready for your trip. For the most precise and current baggage details, we suggest checking the airline's website or contacting the airline directly before you fly.
Cabin (Carry-On) Bags
On most airlines you can take one carry-on bag plus one personal item (a handbag, laptop bag or small backpack, for example) into the cabin free of charge. Carry-on rules still differ from airline to airline and can depend on the fare class you bought:
- Size Restrictions: As a rule, a carry-on bag may be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), wheels and handles included. Some airlines, low-cost carriers especially, allow only smaller bags.
- Weight Limits: Many U.S. domestic airlines do not weigh carry-on bags, but some international airlines set a weight limit, commonly between 15 and 22 pounds (7 to 10 kg).
- Basic Economy Fares: Travelers on Basic Economy or comparable fares may face carry-on restrictions with some airlines. Sometimes only a personal item is allowed, and a full-size carry-on is either not permitted or costs extra.
- Overhead Bin Space: Overhead bins are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. When they are full, your carry-on may be checked at the gate into the hold free of charge.
Checked Luggage
What you can check and what it costs differ widely between airlines, and also depend on your route, fare class and frequent flyer status:
- Domestic Flights (U.S.): On domestic routes, most U.S. airlines charge for checked bags. Expect roughly $30 to $45 each way for the first bag and roughly $40 to $55 each way for the second. Certain airlines and premium fare classes include one or more checked bags free of charge.
- International Flights: Plenty of international itineraries, particularly with full-service airlines, include one or two checked bags in the fare. The allowance depends on the airline, route and fare class.
- Size and Weight Limits: For a standard checked bag, most airlines set a maximum size of 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg). Going over either limit may lead to extra oversized or overweight charges.
Heavy or Oversized Bags
Extra fees apply to bags that go beyond the airline's standard weight or size limits:
- Overweight Bags: A bag weighing 51 to 70 pounds (24 to 32 kg) usually carries an overweight fee of $100 to $200 per bag each way. Some airlines will not accept bags heavier than 70 pounds.
- Oversized Bags: A bag larger than 62 linear inches may carry an oversized baggage fee of $100 to $300 per bag each way, depending on the airline and route.
- Additional Bags: Each checked bag beyond your free allowance costs extra, and the fee rises with every additional bag.
Traveling With Special Items
Special or non-standard items call for planning ahead and may come with extra fees:
- Sports Equipment: Golf clubs, skis, snowboards, surfboards, bicycles and similar gear are usually accepted as checked baggage, though special handling fees may apply. Each airline has its own size, weight and packing rules. We suggest contacting the airline at least 48 hours before you leave to confirm its policy for your equipment.
- Musical Instruments: Smaller instruments like violins or guitars can go in the cabin if they fit in the overhead bin or can be secured in a seat you have bought for them. Bigger instruments have to travel as checked baggage or cargo. Airlines may apply standard or oversized baggage fees to instruments.
- Medical Equipment: Medically necessary equipment such as wheelchairs, CPAP machines and portable oxygen concentrators is carried free of charge by most airlines. You may have to notify the airline in advance and provide documentation.
- Pet Carriers: Pet carriers in the cabin must meet each airline's size limits and are subject to fees. In-cabin pets are not allowed on every airline or route, and pets traveling in cargo fall under separate policies and fees.
Trips on More Than One Airline
When your trip uses several airlines, the baggage rules may change from one segment to the next. Usually the policy of the first airline you fly (known as the "most significant carrier" on international routes) covers the whole journey, but there are exceptions. To avoid surprise charges at the airport, we suggest reviewing the baggage policy of every airline on your itinerary.
If you connect between airlines, you may have to pick up your bags and check them in again between flights, particularly when the airlines have no interline baggage agreement. Our agents can tell you whether your bags can be checked through on your particular itinerary.
Paying for Bags in Advance
Many airlines let you prepay for checked bags at a lower price than you would pay at the airport. This is usually done on the airline's website or app once your ticket is issued. Our agents can also help add bags to your booking.
Questions About Your Bags?
For baggage details specific to your booking, or for help adding bags, special items or other services to your reservation, contact our support team:
Phone: (800) 287-0781 (open 24/7)
Email: [email protected]
Address: IFZA Business Park - Building A2, Dubai, UAE