I always get questions about luggage, and some of it does depend on the airline. However, there are some standard pieces of information that are helpful to know.
Is My Carry-On Too Big?
For carryons most airlines allow one carry-on bag in addition to a personal item such a purse, laptop, or small diaper bag. The most common size allowed for the carry-on is 22 X 14 X 9, and many (but not all) airlines have a sizing box at check-in, and your bag must fit in that box in order to be allowed on the plane with you. Sometimes those maximum sizes are shown as a total number of inches - that is the total of the length, width, and height. When flying international airlines the requirements may be a bit more limited - so make sure you check each airline and go by the smallest. The last thing you want is to have to mail things home!
How Many Bags Can I Check?
Many airlines now charge for suitcases or they allow one with the typical ticket but then charge extra for an additional piece. OR they may charge you extra for a suitcase that weighs more than 50 pounds. A good guideline to use for size - is no more than 62 linear inches (that total of length, width, and height that I mentioned). Generally speaking, for flights coming into the US the rule of thumb for weight limits are: 44lbs (20kg) if you're flying coach, 66lbs (30kg) for business, and 88lbs (40lbs) for first class. If your luggage weighs more than that you will end up having to pay a fee for every extra pound. Keep this is mind when you buy souvenirs!
To Note: Small plans and charter flights will often have further restrictions - around 10-20 pounds depending on the destination - look into this prior to the day before you travel!
Should I Lock My Luggage?
Whether to lock your bag is a personal choice. Just know that all luggage needs to have identification inside and outside the bag. The US National Transportation and Safety Board does suggest that you *not* lock your checked luggage, and if a screener has to open your bag the lock may have to be broken - and no one is going to repay you for that. This applies to domestic and international flights. If you do want to lock your luggage - do yourself (and TSA) a favor, and buy the TSA approved locks that allow them access to your luggage. (You'll know it's TSA approved because it will have the Travel Sentry logo on it).
If Your Luggage is Lost
If the dreaded happens to you and your bag does not come around on that little carousel - here's what you need to know:
Report your missing bag to the airline baggage handlers before you leave the area!
Either you or the baggage handler should complete a property irregularity report. This is where your list of what you packed and photos of your luggage will come in handy.
The report will have a unique file reference number. This will typically be five letters followed by five numbers. The letters will be the airport code, airline code, and then 5 digits. For example: BOS UA 55555 (Boston, United Airlines 55555). Be sure you have a copy of the number (I also suggest snapping a photo of the form) - you'll need it in all communication about the luggage.
You'll also need to keep the sticker with the baggage check. This looks similar because it's the two letter airline code followed by six digits - but you can't trace your bag using only that number.
The airline will take responsibility for locating your bag and delivering it to you.
Be sure you also have a copy of the report. You'll need it in the event you need to make an insurance claim.
Ok - those answer my most frequently asked luggage questions. What else do you want to know? Send me your questions!
For more in-travel what to do - check out our blog post: "What Should I Do If...?"
In need of some pre-travel tips? Read our to-do list here: What To Do Before Traveling Internationally.
What about day of travel? Check out our day of travel tips here: Travel Day Is Here!
Noticing all of the flight cancellations and wondering what to do? Read my thoughts here: What You Need to Know If You're Flying Any Time Soon.
Jet lag tips are here: Is There Anything I can Do About Jet Lag?
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