Baggage Check

Filed in archive Travel Trivia on November 14, 2005

Just because it worked once, it doesn't mean that you can get away with it once again. Airlines have certain baggage weight and size limitations which has to be followed.

"For carry-on luggage, most domestic flights allow one carry-on bag and one personal item -- a purse, briefcase, camera bag, diaper bag, small backpack or laptop computer.

The size limit for carry-on items is generally between 45 inches and 55 inches -- small enough to fit in an overhead bin or under a seat. (The size is determined by adding the length, width and height of the item.) The weight limit varies from 40 pounds to 50 pounds.

For checked luggage, the rules differ slightly from airline to airline, but most domestic airlines limit passengers to two pieces. Weight limits range from 50 pounds to 70 pounds per piece. Size limits are generally about 62 inches.

Most sports equipment, such as golf bags and snow skis, can be checked in lieu of a piece of luggage if the item doesn't exceed the size and weight limits. bicycles must be in boxes.

Overweight fees for checked luggage range from $25 to $150 per piece. Oversize fees run from $25 to $90. The charge for extra luggage can be as high as $180 per piece.

If a bag is oversize and overweight, both fees apply. If an extra bag is also oversize and overweight . . . well, the penalty fees can exceed the price of a ticket."

The Orlando Sentinel's story of Kelly and her inappropriate luggage shows what could go wrong.

On your next flight, make sure that you check your airline's baggage regulations. Otherwise, you'd experience what Kelly did or, worse, you may be forced to miss your flight.