Checked Baggage Size Chart
The Checked Baggage Size Chart is a reference tool covering checked baggage size chart, airline baggage size chart, carry on size chart, baggage weight limit chart. Use the chart below to look up values instantly. Printable and downloadable versions are available on this page.
Checked Baggage Size and Weight Limits by Airline
| Airline | Max Linear Size (L+W+H) | Max Weight — Economy | Oversize Fee | Overweight Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $200 if over 62 in | $100 for 51–70 lbs; $200 for 71–100 lbs |
| Delta Air Lines | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $200 for 63–115 in | $100 for 51–70 lbs |
| United Airlines | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $200 for oversized | $100 for 51–70 lbs |
| Southwest Airlines | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $75 for oversized | $75 for 51–100 lbs |
| Alaska Airlines | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $100 for oversized | $100 for overweight |
| JetBlue | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $150 for oversized | $150 for overweight |
| Spirit Airlines | 62 in (158 cm) | 40 lbs (18 kg) | $100 for oversized | $100 for overweight |
| Frontier Airlines | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $75 for oversized | $75 for overweight |
| Air Canada | 62 in (158 cm) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $118 CAD for oversized | $118 CAD for overweight |
| British Airways | 90 × 75 × 43 cm | 23 kg (51 lbs) | Excess baggage charge per piece | Excess baggage charge per piece |
| Lufthansa | 158 cm total | 23 kg | Extra charge | Extra charge |
| Emirates | 150 × 75 × 60 cm | 23–35 kg by class | Excess charge | Excess charge |
| Qatar Airways | 150 cm total | 23 kg economy | Excess charge | Excess charge |
| Singapore Airlines | 158 cm total | 23–30 kg by class | Excess charge | Excess charge |
| Ryanair | 81 × 119 × 119 cm | 20 kg | Excess baggage fee | Excess baggage fee |
Source: Individual airline baggage policy pages — verified 2026. See American Airlines, Delta, United, IATA Travel Centre.
How to Measure Luggage Size
- Measure the height of the bag from the very bottom to the top of the handle when the handle is retracted. Include any wheels or feet that protrude from the bottom.
- Measure the width at the widest point — usually the full width of the flat face of the suitcase.
- Measure the depth at the deepest point — usually front to back including any pockets or expansion zippers in their expanded position.
- Add the three measurements together to get the linear total (L + W + H). The standard checked baggage limit at most major US airlines is 62 linear inches or 158 cm.
Typical Checked Luggage Sizes
| Luggage Size Category | Typical Dimensions (inches) | Typical Linear Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-on | 22 × 14 × 9 in (FAA standard) | 45 linear inches | Fits in most overhead bins. No check-in required. |
| Small checked (20 inch) | 20 × 13.5 × 7.5 in | 41 linear inches | Short trips of 2 to 4 days. Under the 62 inch limit by a wide margin. |
| Medium checked (24 inch) | 24 × 16 × 10 in | 50 linear inches | 5 to 7 day trips. Well within the 62 inch limit. |
| Large checked (28 inch) | 28 × 19 × 12 in | 59 linear inches | 1 to 2 week trips. Approaching but usually under 62 inch limit. |
| Extra large (30 inch+) | 30 × 20 × 13 in | 63 linear inches | Long trips — may exceed 62 inch limit on some airlines. Verify before travelling. |
Airline Baggage Checker
Enter your bag dimensions, weight, and select your airline to get a pass/fail result with oversize and overweight fee estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard checked baggage size limit?
The standard maximum linear size (length + width + height) for checked baggage at most major US airlines is 62 linear inches or 158 cm total. Bags exceeding this are charged an oversize fee typically ranging from $75 to $200.
What is the standard weight limit for checked baggage?
The standard weight limit for checked baggage in economy class at most US airlines is 50 lbs (23 kg). Bags between 51 and 70 lbs typically incur a fee of $75 to $100. Bags over 70 lbs may be refused or incur fees of $200 or more.
How do I avoid oversize baggage fees?
Measure your bag before packing using the instructions above and ensure it falls within 62 linear inches. If travelling with a bag that is close to the limit consider shipping items separately or redistributing weight into a second bag.
Does a personal item count toward baggage limits?
A personal item (small backpack, purse, laptop bag) is separate from the carry-on allowance on most airlines and neither counts toward checked baggage limits. However budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier charge for carry-on bags and may restrict personal item size.
What happens if my bag is over the weight limit?
If your bag exceeds the weight limit at check-in you will be charged an overweight fee at the counter. You can also choose to open the bag and redistribute items to another bag or remove items to carry them on.
Can I lock my checked baggage?
TSA recommends using TSA-approved locks on checked baggage in the US — these locks can be opened by TSA agents with a master key without cutting them. Non-TSA locks may be cut off by security if the bag needs to be inspected.
What items are prohibited in checked baggage?
Lithium batteries (including spare laptop batteries), e-cigarettes, and all pressurised containers such as aerosols above 2.5 oz must travel in carry-on or not at all. Firearms and ammunition can be checked with advance declaration and proper case requirements — check TSA guidelines before travelling.
What is a linear inch for luggage?
A linear inch is a measurement of total size calculated by adding the length, width, and height of the bag together. A bag measuring 22 × 14 × 9 inches totals 45 linear inches — well within the 62-inch standard checked baggage limit.