It seems like you’re done with the hustle and bustle of everyday life and are ready to pack your bags, head to the airport, and fly off to your dream destination for a much-needed holiday.
You may go on a solo travel, or take your loved ones with you, regardless, travelling is fun, but it can turn into a nightmare. And who wants that, right? If you’re traveling, all you care about is having the time of your life rather than worrying about your luggage. And you definitely don’t want to let packing problems build up to a point where you break down as you try to figure out something important like how to get a zipper back on track.
But, hey, don’t just leave everything off to the last minute because you have to consider some important aspects when it comes to your luggage. Yes, airlines have certain restrictions in place so you better be prepared.
Don’t worry though. We have got you covered with this Largest luggage size for check-in guide.
Why Luggage Size Regulations Matter?
The luggage size regulations exist for a good reason: to ensure that everyone’s bags fit nicely in the airplane’s storage area. If you’re confused as to what luggage actually goes in the cargo area then check our guide on what are the different types of luggage.
You know that airplanes have a limited space in their cargo area to fit in the luggage. If everyone travels with huge suitcases, there won’t be enough room for everyone’s stuff! That’s why airlines have rules in place to ascertain the legitimate luggage size for check-in. More importantly, the weight of luggage allowed on an airline has significant implications on the flight experience for both the passengers and the pilots which is why these considerations are important.
When travelers follow these rules, it helps the airline staff load the bags quickly and efficiently, which means less waiting time for everyone before the plane takes off. Hence, by sticking to the luggage size limits, travelers help keep things running smoothly and avoid delays at the airport. Travelers are at an advantage here.
What is the Largest Luggage Size for Check-Ins?
You can’t fit everything in one bag. The maximum luggage allowed for check-in may vary slightly depending on the airline and the class you’re traveling in. But the standard luggage size that major airlines allow passengers to travel with, is around 62 linear inches. Confused? That’s okay! Check out our guide on what is 62 linear inches luggage.
It means that when you add up the dimensions – length, width, and height of your suitcase, it shouldn’t exceed 62 inches linear.
Some airlines also have other size limits as well. For example, some airlines require you to carry 23-to-32-inch luggage to check-in. You must check with your airline before you pack your luggage for the flight, to ensure that it meets their size requirements.
There are other important questions as well.
Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage? And what even is hard or soft luggage?
Types of Suitcases You can take along
You’ll be surprised with the number of options you have when you carry a suitcase. When choosing submit the luggage for check-in, consider what type of suitcase will work best for you. Here are some options you can consider:
Hard-shell Suitcases
These are made of sturdy materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic, providing excellent protection for your belongings. They’re great for fragile and valuable items. However, hard-shell suitcases can be heavier and costly as compared to other options.
Soft-sided Suitcases
These are typically made of durable fabrics like nylon or polyester. They’re lightweight and more flexible, making them easier to squeeze into tight spaces or overhead bins. Soft-sided suitcases are a good choice if you’re looking for something easy to maneuver.
Duffel Bags
Duffel bags are a popular choice among travelers who want to take along lightweight and easy-to-carry stuff. They come in various shapes and sizes, making them suitable for a long and short trips. Duffel bags are great for weekend getaways or business trips where you need to pack light.
Travel backpacks
If you prefer to travel hands-free, a travel backpack might be the perfect option for you. These backpacks come with padded straps and multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized. They’re ideal for adventure travel where you’ll be on the move frequently.
Rollaboard Luggage
Rollaboard luggage, also known as carry-on luggage, is compact and portable with two wheels. These bags typically have two wheels and a retractable handle, allowing you to roll them along smoothly. Rollaboard luggage is ideal for short trips or when you want to avoid checking in baggage. They’re small enough to fit in overhead bins on airplanes, making them suitable to carry alone with you on flight.
Spinner Luggage
What differentiates spinner luggage from rollaboard luggage is the number of wheels available. The spinner luggage comes with four wheels instead of two. These wheels can rotate 360 degrees, allowing you to move the bag in any direction with ease. Spinner luggage offers excellent stability and balance, making it easy for you to roll it through crowded airports or busy streets. Whether you’re rushing to catch a flight or strolling through a busy city, spinner luggage is your best bet.
Want to learn more? Check out our guide on rollaboard vs spinner luggage.
Luggage Brand Recommendations
Yeah, there are actually more options available than you can count. Who would have thought the suitcase industry was as big as it is? When it comes to selecting the type of suitcase for your travels, choosing the right brand can make a significant difference in terms of durability, functionality, and style.
Check out some of the best luggage brands known for their quality and reliability:
Samsonite
As one of the established luggage brands worldwide, Samsonite offers a wide range of suitcases, travel bags, and accessories. Known for its durability and innovative features, Samsonite suitcase is designed to withstand the tough rigor of travel while providing an ample space to keep your belongings safe.
Travelpro
Travelpro is a trusted and popular brand amongst pilots and travelers. The company specializes in durable and lightweight luggage designed for professional use. Their suitcases often feature ergonomic handles, smooth-rolling wheels, and spacious interiors, and if you are a frequent traveler, it’s the perfect fit for you.
Tumi
If you want a touch of elegance then Tumi’s luggage is a great choice. Tumi combines premium materials with sophisticated design to manufacture high-end suitcases. They come with integrated TSA locks, expandable and removable compartments, for easy packing. If this is too tacky for your taste, then we still have other options.
Delsey
With a focus on innovation and style, Delsey offers a wide range of luggage options to suit every traveler’s needs. From hard-shell spinners to soft-sided duffels, Delsey luggage is known for its durability, security features, and aesthetically sleek design.
RIMOWA
If you’re a fan of Aluminum suitcases then RIMOWA is the brand for you. They combine their timeless design with innovation to create premium designs. RIMOWA suitcases are lightweight yet durable. They come equipped with TSA-approved locks, multi-wheel systems, and customizable interior compartments.
Briggs & Riley
Built to last a lifetime, Briggs & Riley luggage is designed for the frequent travelers. Their suitcases often include innovative designs, compression panels, and expandable folders, offering ample space to keep your belongings safe.
If you’re interested to learn more, check out our detailed guide on what are the best luggage brands.
Conclusion
Don’t let the packing process overwhelm you to a point where you become frustrated and drop the idea to travel to your dream destination. Check out some pro tips to do it right:
- Prioritize Essentials: Pack the items that are absolutely necessary to carry to avoid overloading your suitcase.
- Utilize Packing Cubes: Organize clothing and accessories into packing cubes to maximize space and maintain order within your luggage.
- Roll, Don’t Fold: Roll clothing items instead of folding them to save space.
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Distribute the items evenly throughout your suitcase to prevent imbalance and facilitate easier handling.
- Measure Before You Pack: Before departing for the airport, measure the dimensions and weight of your luggage to ensure compliance with airline regulations.
If you want to learn more, here is a detailed guide on how to measure luggage size.
Safe Travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is largest luggage size for check-ins?
The largest luggage size for check-Ins varies among airlines, but a common standard is around 62 linear inches (158 centimeters). This measurement typically includes the total sum of the suitcase’s length, width, and height. Do ensure to check with your airline to get an idea of what their requirements are.
Is a 28-inch luggage too big for check-in?
It depends. A 28-inch luggage may or may not exceed the size limits for some airlines because it could go beyond the regular standard which is 62 inches linear. But you must check and verify any size restrictions with your airline before packing to avoid any issues at the airport.
Can you check-in with a 32-inch suitcase?
Honestly, it depends on the airline you are traveling with, so ensure to check in with them. Generally, a 32-inch suitcase may slightly exceed the size limits of most carriers considering that the usual requirement for checked luggage is 62 inches linear. Do confirm this with your airline to avoid any troubles at the airport.
