Checked baggage size limits
I am going to be flying Emirates, which limits checked baggage to 30kg, but doesn't appear to have specific size limits for luggage. I am going to be buying some new luggage and I would like to minimise potential issues when flying with other airlines. Do other airlines tend to have specific size limitations for checked baggage and what might they be?
Best Answer
Simple answer: yes.
Long answer: they vary. I've seen some that look much smaller who I've fortunately not had to fly with (BMI I think). RyanAir is VERY strict. Fortunately, however, there are brands of suitcases etc that are 'carry-on' size and generally those are perfectly acceptable - as long as they fit into the overhead bin.
However, here's a chart for baggage restrictions for some major airlines. As you can see they're similar, but there are certainly variations.
In the US, the FAA has Carry on Restrictions. You can see the size here.
Some more airlines and their restrictions are on Wikipedia.
EDIT - I realise that you meant checked, not carry-on, so .....
This should answer your question for the majority of common airlines - courtesy of Wikitravel, is the huge List of Airline Baggage Limits - both checked and carry-on!
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What is the maximum dimensions for checked luggage?
Checked Baggage Size and Weight Limits Most domestic airlines publish checked baggage size limits as a single dimension: 62 linear inches total. International airlines vary slightly, but the 62-inch rule is the most common standard worldwide.Can I check in a 32 inch luggage?
All checked suitcases need to be below 62 linear inches in size (height + width + depth). If you're looking for a checked suitcase that isn't oversized, look for 25, 26, or 27-inch checked luggage.Is 29 inch luggage too big for checked luggage?
As a carry-on or as a checked bag? If it measures 29 inches in the longest dimension, it will not be allowed as a carry-on. The maximum is usually 21 or 22 inches. For a carry-on bag outside North America, you would also have to consider weight limits.How big is a 62 inch checked bag?
A medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches) is more than enough for most people. Usually, medium checked suitcases are 58-61 linear inches in size, which is just below the 62 linear inch size limit, so when you're looking for a checked suitcase, get one in this size.Luggage Measurement Method
More answers regarding checked baggage size limits
Answer 2
In addition to Mark's answer.
US Airlines do have a recommended sizes for the checked-in luggage: Delta, United, US Airways is l+w+h of 62" or 157cm. I would venture to guess that other major airlines have similar dimensional recommendations.
Answer 3
What you are really interested in is what the definition of "oversized baggage" is, since going above that limit involves sizable additional charges. As Karlson mentioned, 62" is a common cutoff for that, although I wouldn't call it a "recommended size". I also would not be surprised at all if the check-in agents would classify a long and skinny 48"x4"x4" box as oversized even though it tehnically meets the requirements.
It's also worth noting that Emirates does have size restrictions on flights to certain countries:
The standard free baggage allowance for flights operating to or from the USA, Canada and Brazil is determined for each single piece of luggage. For piece concept journeys, total dimensions (length + width + height) of each piece must not exceed 158 cm (62”). For Economy passengers with two pieces of luggage, the total combined dimensions of both pieces should not exceed 273 cm (107”).
They say that allowances for other flights are based on weight only, although I'm sure there are practical limits there as well.
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