Stress-free travel is the main objective of people and understanding the airline baggage policy is quite difficult when you are not a frequent traveller. Hence, navigating the airline baggage policies is crucial for the passengers to understand the baggage rules of the airline with which they are going to fly. These policies, knowledge, and tips help you to save time and money to avoid stress during the last minutes of travel. We are going to decode all the major baggage policies things of the airlines that you need to know before fly.
Airlines have different types of Baggage and allowance
Maybe your first bag comes under the category of different Baggage from the second bag. Yes, because the airlines have different types of Baggage and allowances.
Your item – a carry-on bag
The type of Baggage that is very common is carry-on Baggage. What does it include? Your small backpack, purse, small suitcase, or any personal item like a laptop bag is included in the carry-on baggage policy of the airline. The typical size limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles. When we talk about the weight limit, then we can say that it ranges between 7 to 10 KG depending on the airline. The flyers need to check the weight limits of the carry-on bag before arriving at the airport to avoid any other extra charges
Your larger suitcase - Checked Baggage
Next is the checked Baggage of the airline, and in the checked Baggage, larger suitcases are included, which are checked in at the counter. The typical size limit for checked Baggage, including length, width, and height, must not exceed 158 cm in measurement, and the weight limits are generally 23 KG for economy class and 32 KG for business or first class. If you carry an overweight or oversize checked bag at the airport, then you must pay the extra checked baggage fee of the airline.
Things to Know About Personal Items
There are many myths on the web and videos about the personal items of the Baggage, like what it includes. Well, personal items include your purse, laptop bag, or diaper bag. The size limit is also applicable for the personal item, and that is around 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). The best tip for passengers to reduce their checked luggage weight is to try to carry their important and valuable items, such as electronics, purses, and all travel essentials, in one personal item. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.
Now Understand the Baggage Fees
1. Free Allowances
Don’t think that the checked baggage fee is always applicable to you because there are so many times when international flights offer you a free checked bag, and that is a great thing for you. However, for most US domestic flights, it is very rare to get a free checked bag, except the airlines like Southwest Airlines.
2. Paid Baggage Fees
The paid baggage fee is between $25 to $75 for the first checked bag, with higher fees for additional or oversized bags.
What is Special Baggage?
Many items come under the category of special Baggage, like sports equipment, medical equipment, and sports equipment. These items are special Baggage, and you need to review your airline's special baggage policy to understand the fee structure.
Major Airlines Baggage Policies in the United States
1. American Airlines
Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches, no weight limit.
Checked Bag Fees: $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second bag on domestic flights.
2. Delta Airlines
Carry-On: Similar size limits, no weight restriction.
Checked Bag Fees: Starts at $30 for domestic flights.
3. Southwest Airlines
Carry-On: Same size limit, no weight restriction.
Checked Bag Fees: Two free checked bags (a rare perk).
4. Ryanair
Carry-On: Strict weight limit of 22 lbs (10 kg); smaller personal items allowed.
Checked Bag Fees: Fees vary based on weight and season, starting around $35.
5. Emirates
Carry-On: Economy passengers can bring up to 15 lbs (7 kg).
Checked Bag Fees: Based on weight rather than the number of bags for some routes.
How to Avoid Excess Fees?
1. The first way is to consider the right airline that offers you flexible terms for the Baggage. You must select an airline that does not overcharge for multiple bags. For this, you also read the reviews and feedback on the flyers.
2. People who are members of frequent flyer programs can also use the different loyalty programs to waive the baggage fee.
3. Another tip to avoid the baggage fee is to invest in lightweight luggage and check all the modern luggage designs that have good capacity without exceeding the weight limits.
4. If you already know about the extra Baggage, then prepay for the Baggage because it is cheaper than the airport payment.
5. Finally, always pack smart because travel needs smart packing.
Summary
Understanding airline baggage policies is essential for stress-free travel. Airlines categorise baggage into carry-on, checked, personal items, and special baggage, each with specific size and weight limits. Fees vary depending on the airline, route, and baggage type, with carry-ons often free and checked baggage incurring fees starting from $25. Choosing airlines with flexible policies, utilising loyalty programs, and prepaying for baggage can help travellers save money. Packing smartly and investing in lightweight luggage are also key to avoiding excess fees.
FAQs
What are the key differences between carry-on and checked baggage?
Carry-on baggage includes smaller items like backpacks or purses that fit overhead or under the seat, while checked baggage consists of larger suitcases stored in the aircraft's hold with stricter size and weight limits.
Are baggage fees always applicable on international flights?
No, many international flights include one free checked bag, but domestic flights in the U.S. often charge fees for checked baggage unless you're flying with airlines like Southwest.
How can passengers minimise the cost of excess baggage fees?
Travellers can minimise costs by prepaying baggage fees online, packing efficiently to avoid overweight charges, and using lightweight luggage.
What items typically qualify as personal items?
Personal items include small belongings such as purses, laptop bags, or diaper bags, which must fit under the seat in front of you.
What constitutes special baggage?
Special baggage includes items like sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical equipment. Each airline has specific policies and fees for these items.
How do frequent flyer programs help with baggage fees?
Frequent flyer programs often offer benefits like waived baggage fees or increased allowances, making them a valuable tool for regular travellers.
Why is August a good month to travel regarding baggage fees?
August is often considered a low-season month, leading to lower ticket prices and fewer additional fees compared to peak travel months like December.
How can travellers ensure their carry-on bag meets airline requirements?
Measure and weigh your carry-on luggage before the trip to ensure it adheres to the airline’s specific size and weight limits.
Which U.S. airline is known for its generous baggage policies?
Southwest Airlines stands out with its two-free checked bags policy, offering significant savings compared to other U.S. carriers.
What’s the benefit of using modern, lightweight luggage?
Lightweight luggage maximises capacity while staying within weight limits, reducing the risk of excess baggage fees and making travel more convenient.
