World Travel Zone: Luggage Requirements on International Flights

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Luggage Requirements on International Flights: "

Wonder how to pack and what to bring for your next trip abroad? Lindsay Taub of Overstock.com gives an update on airline luggage policies.

Written by Lindsay Taub

Traveling internationally can be stressful. Even with extensive planning, unexpected annoyances can create turbulence. The friendly skies may be smooth sailing once you’re in the air, but much of the frustration can occur before you even reach the gate. Since 2001, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has tightened restrictions on what passengers can carry in their luggage. And as airlines continue to face economic hardships, even more of the luggage burden has fallen on passengers. The key is to be prepared and know airline luggage policies before you go. Take a look below to learn luggage requirements on international flights.

Luggage Requirements:

1. Size: Luggage today is stylish but not always practical. With international travel, your best bet is to go with a standard shape and size. Most airlines will allow passengers to check two bags: one not to exceed 62 inches and the other not to exceed 55 inches. Maximum size is measured by the bag’s total circumference, meaning the total number of inches in length, width and height combined.

2. Weight: International airlines have limited the weight of checked baggage to 50 pounds. Airlines are trying to both save money and be more environmentally sound on fuel usage. While it is still possible to check a heavier bag, passengers face excess baggage charges, depending on the airline and the actual weight overage. However, passengers flying business or first class, or passengers with a high status in their frequent flier program, may be given a reprieve from excess baggage charges. When purchasing your ticket, you may want to figure these into your travel costs as well as to inform your choice of airline carrier.

3. Safe packing: TSA electronically screens every passenger’s baggage before it is placed on an airplane. But there may be occasions when an X-ray image is inconclusive and the luggage will need to be physically inspected. Many passengers feel safer locking their luggage for international travel and it is legal to do so. However, choose a lock that is TSA-approved. These locks can be opened by security officers using universal, master keys so that your lock does not have to be cut and destroyed and your luggage will be safe throughout your travels. The TSA also has an extensive list of prohibited materials for both checked and carry-on baggage. Check the list before you go and avoid being tied up at security checkpoints.

4. Carry-on luggage: The maximum size for carry-on luggage is 45 inches circumference. For example, a suitcase that is 22 by 14 by 9 inches totals 45. Make sure to measure with your own tape measure or ruler, as dimensions listed on the retail tag may be misleading by measuring the interior of the luggage, rather than the exterior circumference. If there are pockets, wheels, handles or compartments on the outside of the bag, these must be considered. Additionally, most airlines now limit the weight of your carry-on, some to as little as 11 pounds. Many wheeled carry-on suitcases can weigh as much as 14 pounds when they are empty! When purchasing a carry-on for international travel, make sure to pick one that has plenty of pounds to spare.

5. Packing liquids: As most frequent travelers are aware, the current limit for carry-on liquids is 3.4 ounces. All of these must fit into one small, quart-size, zippered, clear plastic bag, which most — but not all — airports have on hand. Save yourself and other passengers the trouble and do this packing at home. If you must bring a liquid that is more than 3 ounces, pack it in your checked baggage. There are exceptions for medical substances, but give yourself extra time to go through security, as these items will need to be hand-inspected. A note from your doctor — especially if it is notarized — will save you time and effort. The best plan is to pack as light and as small a carry-on as possible, bringing on-board only the absolute necessities.

Overstock.com is an online retailer offering a wide variety of high-quality, brand-name merchandise at discount prices, including luggage, home decor, appliances, watches, jewelry, electronics, sporting goods, clothing and shoes. They give customers an opportunity to shop for bargains conveniently.

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