Baggage Restrictions on Airlines When Traveling to USA

This article was last updated and fact checked on October 11, 2024 by Mani Karthik.

If you’re planning a trip to the USA, whether it’s for vacation, work, or studies, one of the most common questions that comes up is: How much luggage can I bring?

Airlines have their own baggage policies, and these restrictions can vary depending on the airline, your ticket class, and the route you’re flying.

Let’s dive into what you need to know about baggage restrictions when flying to the USA, so you can pack smart and avoid any unpleasant surprises at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage Restrictions

Most airlines flying to the USA allow one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a handbag or laptop bag) free of charge.

However, size and weight limits vary, so it’s important to check the specific rules of your airline.

Common Carry-On Bag Limits

• Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.
• Weight: Many airlines don’t have strict weight limits for carry-on bags, but it’s typically around 7-10 kg (15-22 lbs).

Tip: Ensure your carry-on fits in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. If it doesn’t, you might be asked to check it in, which could result in extra fees.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Checked baggage allowance is where things can get tricky. Airlines have varying rules based on fare type (economy, business, first class), loyalty status, and sometimes even the time of year. Generally, most airlines offer one or two checked bags free for international flights to the USA.

Economy Class Checked Bag Allowance

• Number of bags: Usually 1-2 bags allowed for free.
• Dimensions: 62 inches (158 cm) when you add the length, width, and height.
• Weight: 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag.

Business/First Class Checked Bag Allowance

• Number of bags: 2-3 bags allowed for free.
• Weight: Usually 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag.

Tip: Stick to the weight and size limits, or you could face overweight/oversize fees, which can be costly (upwards of $100 or more).

Overweight and Oversize Baggage Fees

Here’s where things can get expensive. If your checked baggage exceeds the weight or size limits, airlines will charge you extra. These fees depend on how much your bag exceeds the limit.

Common Overweight Bag Fees

• 23-32 kg (50-70 lbs): $100-$200 per bag.
• Above 32 kg (70 lbs): Many airlines will not accept bags over this weight.

Oversize Bag Fees

• Bags exceeding 62 inches in dimensions will typically incur a fee of $150-$300.

Tip: If you know you’re going to exceed the weight or size limit, consider pre-paying for additional luggage online—it’s often cheaper than paying at the airport.

Restricted Items: What You Can’t Bring

While packing for your USA trip, it’s important to note that some items are restricted or prohibited from being brought on the plane, either in your carry-on or checked luggage.

Prohibited Items in Carry-On Bags

• Liquids over 100ml: All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers no larger than 100ml (3.4 ounces) and fit into a single quart-sized zip-lock bag.
• Sharp objects: Knives, scissors with blades longer than 4 inches, and other sharp items are prohibited.
• Explosives and flammable items: Fireworks, lighter fluid, and other flammable items are not allowed.

Prohibited Items in Checked Bags

• Lithium batteries: Spare lithium-ion batteries are not allowed in checked luggage. Laptops and devices with built-in lithium batteries are fine, but loose batteries should be in your carry-on.
• Hazardous materials: Items like bleach, aerosol cans (except for toiletries), and strong cleaning agents are not allowed in checked baggage.

Tip: If you’re unsure whether an item is allowed, check with your airline or visit the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for a detailed list.

Additional Fees for Special Items

Are you planning to bring along something unusual, like a musical instrument or sports equipment? These items often require special handling and may incur extra fees. Here’s a quick look at what to expect:

Sports Equipment

• Golf bags, skis, bicycles, and similar items may be allowed but can be considered oversize luggage, resulting in extra fees.
• Fees typically range from $100-$200 depending on the item and the airline.

Musical Instruments

• Small instruments (like violins or guitars) can often be carried as part of your carry-on allowance if they fit in the overhead compartment.
• Larger instruments may require a separate ticket or be checked as oversized luggage.

Final Thoughts: Be Smart About Baggage!

When traveling to the USA, it’s important to be mindful of your baggage limits to avoid unexpected fees and complications at the airport. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Check your airline’s baggage policy before you pack—this can usually be found on their website.
• Weigh your luggage before leaving for the airport to ensure it falls within the allowed limits.
• Keep valuables and important documents in your carry-on luggage.

Tip: If you’re traveling with extra baggage, it’s often cheaper to pre-pay for additional bags online rather than dealing with it at the airport!

Being mindful of these baggage restrictions will make your travel experience smoother and avoid any last-minute stress at check-in.