Luggage Restrictions of Major Air Companies

Many people are beginning to find out that the key to traveling enjoyably is to travel light. Gone are the days of traveling with at least a dozen travel bags; this is certainly not necessary. The smart traveler can easily venture to several areas within Europe and remain highly mobile with just one carry-on. This brings the matter up of what size carry-on is acceptable with most the major airlines.

Here is the rule of thumb with respect to a carry-on bag. Remember that your luggage or bag is going to be measured by number of inches. For example, if your bag happened to be 23x13x9 inches this would equate to forty-five inches which is the allowable standard size bag. These dimensions may be a bit off, however the point is total dimensions for a carry-on bag needs to be forty five inches total. Also even if the size is appropriate don't make the mistake of carrying an odd shaped bag (or dimensionally non-standard bag) or it will probably be refused by security.

All the air companies that operate across the globe have some type of enforcement as to the numbers, weight and size of items you carry onto the flight. There are some very limiting rules that have been implemented by the airlines with respect to carry-on style luggage. However, to keep matters simple just remember anything over the standard forty-five inches from a total dimensional standpoint may be either refused - dependent on the airline - or a fee may be applied.

Remember you cannot take anything oversized onto the plane with you. If you have a substantially large package you can't bring it on the plane as a carry-on.

Also, in order to play it safe, it is wise to stow fewer items into your carry-on. Certainly you will need to take proper medicines with you and personal hygienic items, your passport and other necessary documentation. If you really must carry on quite a few items inside your bag, check prior to packing with the airlines as to the number of items you are allowed to take on board.

In certain situations, the airline may check the carry-on you bring so be prepared prior to getting to the security checkpoint. If you are able to manage carrying on a particularly heavy item (perhaps for an additional fee) store it in front of you underneath the seat, and not inside the overhead bins of the plane. Some items that may be considered acceptable to carry onto the plane include: books, periodicals and outerwear. If you carry on liquid like water it must be stored in a container with a capacity maximum of one hundred ml. Toothpaste, gels, and aerosol items need to be stored within your luggage.

If you have a roller bag, duffle-style bag or any item that does not quite fit into the overhead bin or in the area under the seat it will need to be checked in rather than considered as luggage to be carried onto the plane.