There are mainly two types of luggage on flights, carry-on (hand luggage) and checked luggage which is also called hold luggage.
You may have already heard about these words, personal item, carry-on, checked luggage, hold luggage, and other terms of luggage types.
If you are still confused, you are just in the right place, keep reading because we’ve prepared for you this simple and detailed guide on carry on vs checked bags, and even assist you to pick the right piece and while staying within your airline limits.
What Are The 2 Types Of Baggage? Carry On Vs Checked Bag
The two main types of luggage on airlines are carry on baggage or hand luggage and checked baggage:
What Is a Carry-On Bag?
Carry on luggage , cabin baggage or hand luggage is any item or luggage you carry with you on board the airplane, it is usually one piece that can be a small suitcase, a backpack or a duffel bag ,computer bag or smaller purse and often airlines allow it free of charge.
This type of luggage can be weighed or sized at the airport prior to boarding.
The carry-on must fit under the seat in front of you or the overhead bin, and usually must not be above 21 inches. If your carry-on exceeds the allowed size it will be counted as your checked bag which we will be talking about below.
Most airlines do not have a strict carry on weight. but they insist that your carry-on bag must be light enough so you can handle it yourself with any assistance, so ensure that the bag is not bulky so it can fit under the seat or in the overhead bin.
carry-on baggage consists also from one personal item which you can take with you in the cabin.
Personal items
In addition to the carry on luggage above a personal item can be one of the following items and it must fit under seat in front of you:
- Handbag
- A small camera or photo camera
- Tablet or laptop
- Lightweight stroller
- Full-size stroller
- Umbrella (Except pointed ones)
- Diaper bag
What Is a Checked Bag?
Checked baggage or hold luggage is baggage that you deliver in the check in at the airport, and the airline will take care of it and place it in the hold.
You have not the ability to access your check in baggage until your arrival, you receive it in the baggage carousel at your destination.
Some airlines will allow you to check up to 10 bags (depending on your route and travel class), the first bag can be free and the rest can be for additional charges.
This type of luggage can be subject to weight and piece concept,depending on the airline.
Do All Airlines Allow These Two Types Of Luggage?
Not all airlines allow guests to have carry on and check in baggage in their flights, the carry of baggage depends on the space availability and the capacity of the airplane, some airlines will allow you to have on your essential items on board the airplane, and check in the rest of your baggage, even if it is a small suitcase.
Are These Types Of Luggage Free?
Some airlines will allow you to have one carry-on baggage, and one checked baggage free of charge, however nowadays almost all major airlines are applying baggage fees.
Also some airlines may offer free luggage only for business class or premium economy classes.
What Are The 3 Sizes Of Luggage?
If your suitcase is standing in front of you on its wheels you will see the three sizes/ dimensions:
- Height is up and down.
- Width is left to right.
- Depth is front to back.
to calculate Your baggage size just add (length + width + height) on the outside is 62 inches. This includes the handles and wheels.
For example United Airlines allow to take as carry on baggage the following dimensions so it can fit the overhead bin :
- Depth 9 inches / 22 centimeters
- Width x 14 inches / 35 centimeters
- Height 22 inches/ 56 centimeters
The total linear of your carry on bag is (depth + width + Height) = 45 inches / 113 centimeters.
Most airlines measure checked luggage by adding three dimensions together length width + height.
Which Is Better, Hard Or Soft Luggage?
Hard or soft luggage each have their pros and cons. However, if it comes to picking one it depends on your needs. If you’ll be packing breakable items, hard luggage may offer better security than soft luggage.
hard luggage can’t be ripped open as easily and usually has integrated locks. Aluminum luggage can be even more secure. It often has metal drawbolt latches instead of zippers.
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Final Thoughts: What Are The Types Of Luggage In Flights?
To sum up;carry-on luggage or hand luggage is any type of luggage you take with you onboard the airplane, and check luggage or hold luggage is your bag that you give to the airline at the check in counter so they keep it in the hold or in the cargo until you reach your destination.
Most airlines recommend to not put your valuable ore expensive items inside your checked
So make sure to take your essential items inside your carry-on bag or personal item. luggage, and they won’t take custody of your broken or stolen items.
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