Essential Tips for Traveling with Checked Baggage

What is a checked bag?

A checked bag is a type of luggage you send off at the airport before your flight. You won’t get to it until you land. At the start, you go to the ticket counter, and they weigh it for you. This is because the airlines have rules on how big and heavy your bag can be. Checked bags are more significant than the small carry-on luggage or personal item you keep with you because they don’t need to fit under your seat or in a bin above.

Once weighed and checked in, your bag takes a journey through the airport on conveyor belts until it’s safely in the plane’s cargo area. After your plane lands, you’ll go pick up your bag at the baggage claim. Here, your bag comes out on a big, moving circle called a carousel. It’s like a luggage merry-go-round! Remember, this happens after you finish any customs checks if you’re on international flights.

What is the weight limit for a checked bag?

When I pack for a trip, I always keep in mind the weight limit for checked bags. For instance, if I’m flying with Southwest Airlines, I know they have a fixed weight limit of 50 lbs per checked piece of luggage. This means I need to be careful about not packing too many heavy items.

With United Airlines, the rules are a bit different, and it can get tricky. For Economy and Premium Economy classes, checked bags also have a 50 lbs weight limit. However, if I’m traveling in a higher class like Business or First Class, or if I have special MileagePlus status, I’m allowed a more generous limit of up to 70 lbs for my checked bags. And as perks for flying premium, I even get two free checked bags.

It’s important to remember these limits because if your bag goes over the weight, you could face extra fees. For example, United Airlines begins charging at $30 for the first checked bag on domestic flights, with the cost increasing for additional bags. Keeping the weight limits in mind helps me avoid these additional costs.

What is a standard-size checked bag?

When you travel, understanding baggage rules can save you stress. A standard checked bag is often 62 inches when adding the length, width, and height of the bag. Remember, even the wheels and handles count in this size. Airlines might have their own rules for checked bags, so always check before your trip.

Most airlines set a weight limit between 40 and 70 pounds. This range can depend on what type of ticket you have.

Even backpacks can be checked in, as long as they fit the size and weight limits. It’s smart to know these details to avoid extra fees. Always double-check with your airline since baggage policies can change.

What is not allowed in a checked bag?

Certain items can pose risks during flights and are therefore prohibited by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other authorities.

First, lithium batteries can’t go in checked baggage. This includes spare lithium-ion batteries for devices like laptops. Such items should always be in your carry-on luggage or personal items because the risk of damage is too high when bags are tossed around in transit.

Items that could harm people or property are a big no-no. This includes sharp objects, sporting goods with dangerous components, firearms, tools, and anything flammable. You also can’t pack explosives or specific chemicals that could react unpredictably.

Alcohol’s okay, but not the strong stuff. If it’s over 70% alcohol content (or 140 proof), it must stay behind. If you purchase it duty-free at the airport, you can carry it on in a sealed bag. Similarly, cooking sprays and portable chargers with lithium batteries are not allowed in checked bags due to the potential hazards they present. Any drone pilots need to keep their drones in their carry on luggage as well.

Keep these rules in mind to ensure a smooth travel experience and avoid any unpleasant surprises at the ticket counter.

How much does checked baggage cost?

Traveling with checked luggage can add extra costs to your trip, and it’s important to plan for this. Often, airlines charge between $30 and $50 for each bag you check on a one-way flight. For example, if you fly with United Airlines on domestic flights, you will pay $30 for your first bag, $40 for the second, and $150 for each additional bag.

If you have an airline credit card, then these fees are usually waived. We get two free checked bags with our United Card. Check your credit card benefits for this.

When flying internationally, the cost can change a lot depending on where you go and what ticket you have. Sometimes, the first bag is free if you’re flying far in economy class. But if you have extra bags or really big items, some airlines might charge you about $75 for each one on certain routes.

Remember to think about this when you work out your travel budget. If you have a lot of bags or round trips, the fees can really add up.

Here’s a quick look at possible fees:

• First checked bag: Usually $30 – $50
• Second checked bag: Typically around $40
• Additional bags: Could be $150 each
• Oversized items: Approximately $75

Fly Direct If Possible

Booking direct flights is one of my top recommendations. I have found that when you fly direct, you not only save time but also reduce the risk of your bags being misplaced during transfers. Your bag only has to make it onto one plane, not off and back on.

Avoid Short Layovers

If you can’t fly direct, be sure to give your luggage time at your layover. Sometimes, luggage fails to move as quickly as you do, leading to it not making your next flight. To keep everything moving together, it’s safer to choose longer layovers, ensuring your bags have adequate time to transfer. I don’t recommend anything shorter than 90 minutes.

Use a Credit Card That Offers Free Checked Bags

Travel credit cards have been a game-changer for me. Some cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred offer reimbursement for delays, and many airline-specific cards waive baggage fees, saving me money and hassle.

Leave Extra Room in Your Bag for Souvenirs

On a personal note, I always leave extra room in my bag for souvenirs. Whether it’s local delicacies or unique trinkets, I have room to securely pack them away in my checked luggage for the trip home.

Know Your Airline’s Checked Baggage Rules

Before I pack, I thoroughly review my airline’s checked baggage rules. This includes size and weight limits, and especially any restrictions specific to international flights. It’s also crucial to know which common items may not be allowed in checked baggage due to FAA regulations. Even as an experienced traveler, I always check because FAA is always changing.

Pack the Heavy Stuff at the Bottom

Packing can be an art, particularly when it comes to distribution of weight. I always place the bulkiest and heavier items at the bottom of my checked suitcase, near the wheels. Shoes, boots, etc. It keeps my bag stable and easy to roll through bustling airport halls. Bonus, my clothes don’t get crushed. I still use packing cubes in checked luggage.

Don’t Check Your Valuables

From personal experience, I cannot stress enough the importance of keeping valuable items, important documents, and electronic devices in your carry-on baggage. Just don’t do it.

Weigh Your Luggage Before You Get to the Airport

Overweight luggage can incur hefty fees, so I always weigh my bags at home. I have this nifty luggage scale that lets me know exactly how much it weighs. It’s one simple step that helps avoid unpleasant surprises at the ticket counter. I also know how much more I can fit into the suitcase.

Take a Picture of Your Bags

A tip that has saved me more than once is taking a picture of my luggage and the baggage tag receipt. These can come in handy if your luggage needs to be located or if there’s a dispute at the baggage claim. It’s also needed if your bag is damaged in flight and you want to be reimbursed.

Check-in Early

In my travels, I’ve made it a habit to always check in early, whether online or at the airport. Not only does it give me peace of mind but it ensures that my luggage will be on the same flight as me.

Record Your Checked Baggage Tag Information

Keeping a photo of your checked baggage tag receipt has become part of my travel routine. It’s a vital record for when you need to track your luggage or report it as lost. They give you this little sticker with a bar code, so I just snap a picture of it incase that falls off my passport.

Use a Tile Tracker to Help Locate Luggage

To keep a closer eye on my luggage’s whereabouts, I started using a Tile tracker. It’s easy to set up and follows FAA guidelines. This little device provides real-time updates on my phone, so I always know where my bag is.

Add Additional I.D. to Your Checked Luggage

I tag my bags with my contact information, both outside and inside. I’ve also learned to remove old tags to avoid confusion and to add something unique for extra identification. It’s easy to forget to take off that last baggage tag, but that can cause confusion for everyone and your bag can end up in the wrong destination.

Add Some Color to Your Bag (or Get a Unique Bag)

Choose luggage that stands out! I have a bright orange suitcase which means I can spot it from a mile away. Whenever I get someone luggage, it’s not navy blue, black, or grey. If you do have one of those colors, get a colorful luggage strap or add patches to make it unique. A bright color or a distinctive design means I can spot my suitcase from a distance on the luggage carousel, and it deters others from accidentally taking it.

Keep Your Receipts – Don’t Lose the Barcode!

Lastly, I cannot overemphasize the importance of the barcode sticker you get at check-in. It’s the lifeline connecting you to your luggage, so take a picture and keep it safe. It will make locating your bags a whole lot easier if they divert to the wrong destination.

With these pointers in mind, you’ll be better prepared for your travels with checked luggage, reducing the risk of the usual hassles. Whether you’re headed for summer travels, a business trip, or international flights, these tips can help enhance your overall travel experience.

Checked baggage FAQs

What happens if your checked baggage is overweight?

Checked baggage has a weight limit, usually around 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag. If your luggage exceeds this, you’re looking at extra fees, which can be quite high when you’re at the airport. On certain business and first-class tickets, you might be able to get away with two bags of this weight, but that depends on the airline.

I always weigh my luggage beforehand. That way, I dodge those overweight charges that could add up, especially on international flights where baggage rules differ. While most standard limits hover near 70 to 80 lbs (31 to 36 kg) for heavy luggage, it’s always best to check those airline specifics.

Do you pay for checked baggage fees both ways?

With most airlines, yes, you do pay baggage fees for both your departure and return. And if you have a layover, airlines like Norwegian Air will require fees for each leg of your journey. The only big exception in the U.S. is Southwest Airlines, which generously skips these charges.

Baggage fees are not uniform; they can range quite a bit from one airline to another. The average cost to check a bag one way could be between $30 and $50. If you’re carrying multiple bags, you’ll feel that cost multiply. That’s why it’s always good to double-check with your airline how much these fees will be and when you’ll need to pay them. If you’re a frequent traveler who checks bags, look into airline rewards programs to avoid the checked bag fees.

Can you pay for baggage at the airport?

Yes, payment for checked bags can be made at the airport, but I wouldn’t recommend waiting until the last minute. Why? Because it usually costs more than if you handle it beforehand. At the airport, you’ll want to use a credit card, as cash payments are a rarity these days.

Paying in advance is a move that can save you both money and time. Airlines tend to offer discounts for advanced payments and, with your fees settled, you can breeze past the long ticket counter lines straight to the bag drop. Just be mindful of your airline’s cutoff times for bag checks, some might require you to be done 45 minutes before the flight.

Does Travel Insurance cover lost luggage?

Usually. This is one of the best things about travel insurance. The peace of mind that you’re covered if anything does get lost. However, you need to show what was in the luggage to get reimbursed. So if you’re traveling with something important, take a picture of it in the luggage. Make a list of everything in the suitcase as well. It will help the insurance claim go a lot smoother.

5 Things You Should Never Put in Checked Luggage

Traveling can be stressful, and one way to make it easier is by knowing what to pack in your carry-on luggage versus your checked bags. I’ve learned from experience that some items are too important or too fragile to risk putting in checked luggage. Here are five things you should keep with you on the plane:

1. Prescription Medicine

Never put your prescription medicine in checked luggage. I make it a point to always have my medications in my carry-on bag or personal item. This ensures I have access to them during the flight and in case of any delays or lost luggage. I’ve seen many travelers mistakenly put their medicine in a toiletry bag, only to find that it’s been checked.

2. Passport & Other Travel Documents

Don’t make the mistake of putting any travel documents in your checked luggage. I once saw someone panic that they couldn’t find their passport and their travel partner told them that it was in the checked bag. Luckily they had other ID for the plane, but that could have been VERY bad for them. It still could have been if they got to their destination but their luggage didn’t.

3. Valuables

Anything of value should be kept on you whenever possible. If you don’t want it lost or stolen, keep it in the carry-on.

4. Cherished Items

The same goes for anything with sentimental value. Got a souvenir you paid a lot of money for? Squeeze it in the carry on if you can. Fragile items should also go in the carry on. Checked luggage is tossed around, moves on conveyor belts, dropped down the baggage carousel, if you don’t want it broken, don’t check it.

5. Anything with Lithium Ion Batteries (including laptops)

This is just not allowed, period. Sorry, but that precious carry-on will be filled with batteries before one is allowed to go in checked. Don’t do it.