General Baggage Guidelines
Baggage policies, including allowances, size restrictions, and fees, are set by individual airlines and may vary significantly between carriers, routes, fare classes, and loyalty program status. Yourtravelbuddy does not set baggage policies and is not responsible for airline-imposed baggage fees or restrictions. The information provided on this page is intended as general guidance to help you prepare for your trip. For the most accurate and up-to-date baggage information, we recommend contacting the airline directly or visiting their website before you travel.
Carry-On Baggage
Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) into the cabin at no additional charge. However, carry-on policies vary by airline and may also depend on your fare class:
- Size Restrictions: Carry-on bags typically must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels. Some airlines, particularly low-cost carriers, may have smaller size limits.
- Weight Limits: While many U.S. domestic airlines do not enforce carry-on weight limits, some international carriers impose weight restrictions, often between 15 and 22 pounds (7 to 10 kg).
- Basic Economy Fares: Some airlines restrict carry-on baggage for passengers booked in Basic Economy or similar fare classes. In some cases, only a personal item is permitted, and a full-size carry-on may not be allowed or may require an additional fee.
- Overhead Bin Space: Carry-on bags are stored in the overhead compartment on a first-come, first-served basis. If overhead space is full, your carry-on may be gate-checked to the cargo hold at no additional charge.
Checked Baggage
Checked baggage allowances and fees vary widely between airlines and depend on your route, fare class, and frequent flyer status:
- Domestic Flights (U.S.): Most U.S. airlines charge fees for checked bags on domestic flights. The first checked bag typically costs between $30 and $45 each way, and the second bag may cost between $40 and $55 each way. Some airlines and premium fare classes include one or more checked bags at no additional charge.
- International Flights: Many international itineraries, particularly on full-service carriers, include one or two checked bags in the ticket price. Allowances vary by airline, route, and fare class.
- Size and Weight Limits: Most airlines set maximum dimensions for checked bags at 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) for standard checked bags. Bags exceeding these limits may incur additional oversized or overweight fees.
Oversized and Overweight Baggage
Bags that exceed the airline's standard size or weight limits are subject to additional fees:
- Overweight Bags: Bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds (24 to 32 kg) typically incur an overweight fee ranging from $100 to $200 per bag each way. Bags exceeding 70 pounds may not be accepted by some airlines.
- Oversized Bags: Bags exceeding 62 linear inches may be subject to oversized baggage fees, which can range from $100 to $300 per bag each way depending on the airline and route.
- Additional Bags: Airlines charge fees for each additional checked bag beyond the free allowance. These fees increase with each additional bag.
Special Items
Traveling with special or non-standard items requires advance planning and may involve additional fees:
- Sports Equipment: Items such as golf clubs, skis, snowboards, surfboards, and bicycles are typically accepted as checked baggage but may be subject to special handling fees. Size, weight, and packaging requirements vary by airline. We recommend contacting the airline at least 48 hours before departure to confirm their policies for your specific equipment.
- Musical Instruments: Small instruments (such as guitars or violins) may be carried in the cabin if they fit in the overhead bin or can be secured in a purchased seat. Larger instruments must be shipped as checked baggage or cargo. Airlines may charge standard or oversized baggage fees for instruments.
- Medical Equipment: Most airlines accommodate medically necessary equipment (such as wheelchairs, CPAP machines, and portable oxygen concentrators) at no additional charge. Pre-notification and documentation may be required.
- Pet Carriers: In-cabin pet carriers are subject to airline-specific size restrictions and fees. Not all airlines or routes permit in-cabin pets. Cargo pet travel has separate policies and fee structures.
Multi-Airline Itineraries
If your itinerary involves multiple airlines, please be aware that baggage policies may differ between carriers on different segments of your trip. In general, the baggage policy of the first airline you fly with (the "most significant carrier" on international routes) applies to your entire journey, but this is not always the case. We recommend checking the baggage policies of each airline on your itinerary to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
When connecting between airlines, you may need to collect and recheck your baggage between flights, particularly if the airlines do not have an interline baggage agreement. Our agents can advise you on whether through-checking is available for your specific itinerary.
Pre-Purchasing Baggage
Many airlines offer the option to pre-purchase checked baggage at a discounted rate compared to paying at the airport. Pre-purchasing baggage can typically be done through the airline's website or mobile app after your ticket has been issued. Our agents can also assist you with adding baggage to your booking.
Need Help?
For specific baggage information related to your booking, or for assistance with adding baggage, special items, or other services to your reservation, please contact our support team:
Phone: (800) 437-8197 (available 24/7)
Email: [email protected]
Address: 623 Main Ave. E Ste 102B, West Fargo, ND 58078