So what is checked baggage? and what does 1st checked bag mean?
Checked baggage or hold baggage refers to any bags or items you take with you on your flight, but that are delivered to the airline at the check-in counter. The baggage is stored in an inaccessible area (in the cargo hold) during the flight, and you will get it back after the airplane lands.
The key difference between checked luggage and carry-on baggage (hand luggage) is that checked baggage cannot be carried on board the airplane but is stored in the aircraft hold, while carry-on luggage is any item you take with you in the cabin.
In this post, I will look into what checked baggage or hold luggage means, and some best practices for checked baggage.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
- Checked baggage (or hold luggage) is any bag that you give to the airline at check-in to be stored in the cargo hold.
- The “1st checked bag” is usually included free with your ticket; extra bags may cost more.
- Standard size: up to 62 linear inches (158 cm), including wheels and handles.
- Weight limit: typically 50 lbs (23 kg) for economy and 70 lbs (32 kg) for business class.
- Oversized or overweight bags can result in extra fees.
- Always check your airline’s baggage policy before your trip to avoid extra charges.
What Standard Checked Bag Means?
What is the normal baggage allowance?
Usually, most airlines set a standard checked baggage weight and size for passengers to adhere to and not exceed, based on size and weight.
For instance, this is what United Airlines’ checked baggage restriction is:
A standard checked bag can measure (length + width + height) on the outside up to 62 inches. This includes the handles and wheels. The maximum weight a checked bag can have depends on your cabin and Premier status at check-in. If the maximum size or weight differs based on your cabin and MileagePlus status, the larger limit will apply.
United Economy passengers are allowed 50 pounds (23 kilograms), while United Business, United First, and United Polaris Business Class passengers are allowed 70 pounds (32 kilograms).
What Is The 1St Checked Bag Means?
Most airlines allow more than 5 checked bags; however, only the first or second ones are likely to be complimentary (included in the ticket).
Airlines refer to the free bag as the 1st checked bag.
Some airlines may even make the second bag free of charge or complimentary for passengers, but travelers can purchase additional bags either online or at the airport. However, some further restrictions may apply.
Distinctly, flying with one checked bag will make your flight less stressful and hassle-free, especially at the luggage carousel.
If you have bulky items or oversized bags, that will cause some additional charges.
Is There a Weight Limit for Checked Luggage?
Yes, most airlines have a weight limit for checked luggage. In some airlines, a single bag must not weigh more than 45 kg, with exceptions for assistive devices, musical instruments, and sports items.
You can bring musical instruments up to 130 pounds (60 kilograms) and all types of assistive devices.
Please check with your airline prior to traveling if you plan to bring bulky items.
Is There a Size Limit for Checked Luggage?
Yes, there are size limits for checked baggage. The most common luggage size is 62 linear inches; however, most airlines will allow up to 112 linear inches.
Just make sure you bring a bag that will fit all your needs.
Can You Check a 28-Inch Suitcase?
Yes, you can check a 28-inch suitcase, depending on the airline you are traveling with.
Some airlines can allow more than 115 inches, while others may consider a 29″ bag oversized.
How Big Is a 62-Inch Suitcase?
To calculate a suitcase’s linear dimensions, add the length, width, and height together.
A suitcase with 62 linear inches could measure 27″ width + 21″ height + 14″ length, including the handle and wheels added together.
For example, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 62 Linear Check Suitcase has a size of 29.5” height × 20.5” width × 11.75” length.
If you combine 29.5″ + 20.5″ + 11.75″ = 61.75″ inches.
What Happens If Your Suitcase Is Over the Weight Limit?
The space in airplanes is limited, which is why airlines impose luggage weight limits and will charge more if you bring bags that exceed the weight limit.
Airlines can also apply different charges. For example, if your bag is over both the weight limit and the size limit, you will pay for both overweight and oversized baggage.
Airlines may not accept some bags that are too heavy in certain cases, so make sure to read your airline’s checked baggage weight limits carefully.
Why Is There a Weight Limit For Checked Bags?
Most airplanes have limited space, but airlines are mainly concerned about the amount of fuel they will consume especially on long-distance flights.
More weight means more fuel, and more fuel means higher costs.
In addition, luggage must be loaded by hand for smaller planes. Imagine spending an 8-hour shift heaving 50 lb (22.7 kg) bags in and out of cargo holds.
Do Checked Bags Get Searched?
Yes, your checked baggage will be screened by an X-ray machine at the security checkpoint.
Make sure you don’t include any suspicious items in your checked suitcase.
If you have any item you think a security agent might question, inform them before they start searching your bag.
What Size Luggage Can Be Checked?
Some airlines may let you check bags that are more than 126 inches / 320 cm. However, this size may be considered oversized, and you will have to pay an oversized baggage fee.
Bags are weighed at the check-in counter, and many airlines place luggage sizers at their gates, so your bag must be compliant with the airline you are flying with.
Again, it is always best to check your airline’s checked baggage size policy first to get their exact size requirements, as sometimes checked baggage requirements are seasonal and can change often.
Final Thoughts
Checked baggage is also known as hold luggage, is any item or bag that you hand over to the airline at check-in counter to be stored under the airplane.
It is important to understand what counts as a standard checked bag, including the size and weight limits to avoid any additional fees and travel stress.
The term “1st checked bag” refers to the first bag that usually most airlines includ free of charge with your ticket.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
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