So can you take an empty suitcase on a plane? and can you check in an empty suitcase?
Do you want to bring home a fancy new suitcase, or are you considering taking an empty suitcase to your destination but unsure if your airline will accept it?
Don’t worry, with the right knowledge, you can transport your empty suitcase with any airline at any time.
You can bring an empty suitcase on any airline without any issues, as long as it falls within the airline’s baggage size limits. Some airport security officers may ask questions, but simply explaining your reason should be enough.
So one of the best tips to do before taking your empty suitcase and heading to the airport is to carefully review your airline luggage size regulations.

Can You Take An Empty Suitcase On a Plane?
Airlines generally don’t care whether your suitcase is empty or full.
Airlines will not deny an empty suitcase, what matters is that it meets their baggage requirements (size and weight).
If your airline has a piece policy (limiting the number of bags you can bring), you’ll want to check how many are allowed before packing an extra suitcase.
According to Marina Byrum, a travel consultant and independent contractor on Quora:
“As far as I know, there is nothing illegal about traveling with an empty suitcase and bringing it back full of stuff. Most certainly, the airlines do not care if you do this. Just be sure your full suitcases weigh under 50 lbs to avoid excess baggage charges.”
Can You Travel With One Suitcase Inside Another?
Yes, you can travel with one suitcase inside another.
Just make sure the smaller suitcase fits properly inside the larger one.
Airlines are familiar with this practice, and as long as weight and size limits are respected, there should be no problem.
Can I Pack a Suitcase Inside My Carry-On?
If your carry-on meets the airline size limits, you can absolutely pack a smaller bag inside it.
keep in mind that you will need to lift it into the overhead bin without assistance. Security may inspect it, but airlines won’t require you to remove it otherwise.
What Is The Weight Of An Empty Suitcase?
Empty suitcase weights vary, but the standard weight for a checked luggage suitcase is around 9 lbs (4.1 kg), while a carry-on case typically weighs 6.5 lbs (2.94 kg).
You won’t need to worry about the weight of your suitcase if it’s empty, but if you are returning with items, be mindful of the added weight. You can check this easily using a luggage scale at the airport.
How Do You Fill Empty Space In a Suitcase?
If your suitcase is small, you can take it as carry-on luggage and fill it with some personal items.
However, you don’t need to fill it with unnecessary items like paper or junk. Airlines may charge you if your checked baggage exceeds weight limits.
Can I take an Empty Suitcase On a Plane – Thoughts
A Twitter user, @spamallama, asked the TSA if she could take an extra empty suitcase on a flight.
The TSA customer service confirmed:
“You may pack a small suitcase inside a larger one and bring it through the security checkpoint. If you have questions about the size of carry-on bags allowed, please check with your air carrier for their specific policy.”

Here is what a Stackexchange member is saying about Traveling with empty suitcase:

Empty Luggage Weight
Here are some popular suitcases and their weights:
Suitcase | Weight | Dimensions |
---|---|---|
Samsonite Omni PC (Checked) | 10.35 lbs / 4.69 kg | 30.5″ x 21.5″ x 13.5″ |
Samsonite Winfield 2 (Carry-On) | 6.7 lbs / 3.03 kg | 23.0″ x 14.5″ x 9.5″ |
Samsonite Freeform (Carry-On) | 6.5 lbs / 2.94 kg | 21.25″ x 15.25″ x 10.0″ |
American Tourister Stratum XLT (Checked) | 8.7 lbs / 3.94 kg | 31″ x 19.8″ x 12.6″ |
Amazon Basics Softside Carry-On | 5.51 lbs / 2.49 kg | 13.7″ x 7.8″ x 17.32″ |
DELSEY Paris Helium Aero (Checked) | 10.2 lbs / 4.62 kg | 25″ x 17.5″ x 11.5″ |
The average weight for a carry-on suitcase is about 6.5 lbs (2.94 kg), while a checked suitcase weighs around 10.2 lbs (4.62 kg).
Final Thoughts
Taking an empty suitcase on a plane is completely fine.
As long as it meets airline size and weight requirements, you won’t run into any issues.
To avoid extra fees, always check your airline baggage policy before your trip.
People also ask:
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- What checked baggage means?
- What can I use instead of a suitcase?
- Can You Use a Duffel Bag As Checked Luggage?
- Can you lock checked luggage?
Happy travels
