Navigating international travel involves understanding various regulations, and luggage standards are a crucial aspect. Unlike domestic flights where carry-on-only travel is common, international trips often require more luggage. Airlines have specific policies regarding fees, allowances, and weight limits, influenced by factors like origin, destination, frequent flyer status, and class of travel. Staying informed about these policies ensures a smooth journey.
International Luggage at Airport
It’s always wise to confirm luggage policies directly with your airline before traveling, as regulations can change frequently. This guide provides a general overview to help you prepare.
Understanding Luggage Weight Limits for International Flights
Weight limits for international flights can differ significantly from those within the US. This discrepancy can pose a challenge when connecting between domestic and international flights. To avoid issues, it’s best to adhere to the lowest weight allowance across all legs of your journey for both carry-on and checked luggage.
Carry-on Weight Restrictions
International carry-on weight limits often differ from domestic rules. While most domestic flights allow carry-on bags up to 35 lbs, international flights typically impose stricter limits, ranging from 16 to 22 lbs. A notable exception is British Airways, which allows a generous 51 lbs for carry-ons. Checking your airline’s specific policy is essential.
Checked Baggage Weight Guidelines
The standard checked luggage weight limit for international flights is generally around 50 lbs, similar to domestic flights. This limit is in place to minimize the risk of injury to baggage handlers. However, some international flights, particularly those within the US and European Union, may allow up to 70 lbs for checked luggage, although exceeding 50 lbs may incur additional fees. Always confirm with your airlines to avoid any surprises.
Decoding International Suitcase Sizes and Dimensions
Luggage size is just as important as weight limits. International airlines specify size restrictions in inches or centimeters, measuring height, width, and depth. Some airlines combine these three measurements into a single linear dimension. Notably, airlines outside the US typically use centimeters.
Personal Item Dimensions
Many international airlines don’t have strict size restrictions for personal items, but a common limit is 40 linear inches (length + width + height) or 18 x 14 x 8 inches (46 x 36 x 20 cm). A personal item should fit comfortably under the seat in front of you or in the seat back pocket. Always verify the specific requirements with your airline, as smaller planes may have less under-seat space.
International Carry-on Dimensions
International carry-on luggage usually has a maximum size of 22 inches (55cm) in height, 15 inches (40cm) in width, and 10 inches (25cm) in depth. This can be problematic because carry-ons accepted on domestic US flights may be too large for international routes, potentially leading to gate checks. Size limits can also vary between cities within the same country.
Many airlines also impose weight limits on carry-ons, typically around 22 pounds (10kg). Your luggage might be weighed at the gate, and exceeding the limit could result in fees for gate-checking your bag. Always check your airline’s specific carry on luggage size before heading to the airport.
Carry-on Size Chart for Major International Airlines
| AIRLINE | SIZE IN INCHES | WEIGHT/LBS |
|---|---|---|
| AeroMexico | 21.5 x 15.7 x 10 | 22 |
| Air Canada | 21.5 x 15.7 x 9 | — |
| Air France | 46.5 total linear | 26 |
| Air New Zealand | 22 x 14 x 9 | 15 |
| Alitalia | 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.9 | 17.6 |
| All Nippon Airways | 22 x 16 x 10 | 22 |
| El Al Airlines | 22 x 17.7 x 9.8 | 17.6 |
| Iceland Air | 15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 | 22 |
| Japan Airlines | 22 x 16 x 10 | 22 |
| KLM | 21.5 x 13.5 x 10 | 26 |
| Korean Air | 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 | 25 |
| Lufthansa | 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 | 17.6 |
| Norwegian Air | 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 | 22 |
| Philippine Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | 15 |
| Qantas Airways | 22 x 14 x 9 | 15 |
| Saudi Arabian Airlines | 62 total linear | 15.4 |
| Scandinavian Airlines | 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 | 17.6 |
| Singapore Airlines | 45.3 total linear | 15.4 |
| Thai Airways | 22 x 18 x 10 | 15 |
| Virgin Atlantic | 22 x 14 x 9 | 22 |
Checked Luggage Dimensions
Checked luggage on international flights must also meet size restrictions. If you’re transferring from a domestic to an international airline, ensure your luggage complies with the stricter requirements to avoid oversized baggage fees.
The standard size for checked luggage is 62 linear inches (156cm), typically corresponding to dimensions of 27 inches (68cm) x 21 inches (53cm) x 14 inches (35cm). While the average international flight baggage weight limit is 50 pounds (23kg), some airlines allow up to 70 pounds (32kg) for business and first-class passengers.
Maximizing Your International Flight Baggage Allowance
Your international flight baggage allowance, along with any applicable fees, depends on the airline’s specific regulations. Frequent flyers with elite status or those traveling in first or business class may be eligible for extra carry-on allowance or waived baggage fees. It is always best to verify these potential benefits with your airline.
Personal Items and Carry-on Bags
Most international flights permit one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger. An exception is Bolivia’s Amaxonas, which only allows carry-on luggage and prohibits personal items.
Different types of spinner carry-on luggage.
In some airlines, like Royal Dutch Airlines, first and business class passengers can bring two carry-on bags with a combined weight of 40 lbs, plus one personal item.
Besides personal items, most international airlines allow passengers to bring jackets, coats, and baby strollers onboard.
Checked Baggage Options
International flights typically allow one or two pieces of checked luggage per passenger. Baggage allowance is often determined by whether the flight is intracontinental (within the same continent) or intercontinental (across oceans or continents).
For example, American Airlines allows two checked bags for flights to or from Japan, South Korea, and China, but only one bag for flights between the USA and Mexico. Baggage allowances are also affected by plane size, airport infrastructure at the destination, and the typical amount of luggage passengers bring on a given flight.
Most airlines allow you to check additional bags for a fee, with each extra bag costing more than the previous one. An airline might offer two free checked bags, charging $125 for a third and $200 for each subsequent bag.
For oversized, heavy, or oddly shaped items, always consult the airline’s specific regulations before flying. Airlines often have specific weight and size limits for items like skis, surfboards, and golf bags. United, for instance, has a 100 lb limit for any checked item. Depending on the airline, necessary medical equipment may or may not be considered checked luggage.
Preparation is Key to a Smooth Trip
Airline luggage regulations are subject to change, often influenced by fluctuating fuel costs. By understanding the dimensions of luggage allowed for international travel, you can avoid unexpected fees and ensure a hassle-free travel experience. Always confirm directly with your airline before your flight to get the most up-to-date information.
