Checked luggage gives you far more room than a carry-on, but it is not unlimited. Most airlines cap the size of a standard checked bag at the same figure — 62 linear inches — and add a weight limit on top. Go over either and the fees add up fast.
Here is what the 62-inch rule means, the usual weight limits, and how to avoid an oversize or overweight charge at check-in.
Table of Content
- Quick answer
- The 62-inch rule explained
- Checked bag weight limits
- Oversize and overweight fees
- How to measure linear inches
- FAQs
Quick answer
The standard checked bag limit on most airlines is 62 linear inches (158 cm) — length, width and height added together — and a weight limit of 50 lb (23 kg) in economy. Larger or heavier bags are allowed on many airlines but incur oversize or overweight fees. Limits and fees vary by airline and fare, so check yours.
The 62-inch rule explained
Airlines measure checked bags in linear inches, which is just the three dimensions added together: length plus width plus height. The near-universal standard for a normal checked bag is 62 linear inches, or 158 cm.
So a suitcase measuring 28 x 20 x 12 inches adds up to 60 linear inches and is within the limit. Most large checked suitcases sold in shops are built to sit just under 62 inches for this reason. Major carriers such as Delta publish the same 62-inch and 50 lb standard.
Checked bag weight limits
Size is only half the story; weight is the other half. The typical limits are:
- Economy: 50 lb (23 kg) per bag
- Business and first: often 70 lb (32 kg) per bag
A cheap luggage scale pays for itself on the first trip. Weigh the packed bag at home, because reshuffling clothes into your carry-on at the check-in desk is nobody’s idea of a good start to a holiday.
Oversize and overweight fees
Go past 62 linear inches and the bag is oversized; go past the weight limit and it is overweight. Either one triggers a fee, and a bag that is both can be charged twice. Many airlines will not accept bags above roughly 80 linear inches (203 cm) or 70 lb (32 kg) at all, so very large or heavy items may need a specialist shipping service instead.
Because these fees vary so much, it is worth checking the cost before you fly. Our baggage fee calculator estimates what an extra or oversized bag will add to your trip.
How to measure linear inches
- Measure the height, width and depth of the packed bag at its widest points.
- Include wheels, handles and bulging pockets.
- Add the three numbers together — that total is your linear inches.
- Keep it under 62 inches (158 cm) to stay within the standard limit.
Flying with a cabin bag too? See our guide to carry-on luggage size limits for the other half of your baggage.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum checked luggage size?
On most airlines the standard checked bag limit is 62 linear inches (158 cm), meaning the length, width and height added together must not exceed that total. Bags larger than this are treated as oversized and cost extra.
What does 62 linear inches mean?
Linear inches is simply the three dimensions of the bag added together: length plus width plus height. A 28 x 20 x 12 inch suitcase is 60 linear inches, which is within the standard 62-inch limit.
What is the checked bag weight limit?
For economy, the usual limit is 50 lb (23 kg) per bag. Business and first class often allow up to 70 lb (32 kg). Go over and you pay an overweight fee, so weigh your bag at home before you leave.
What happens if my checked bag is too big or too heavy?
You pay an oversize or overweight fee, which can be substantial. Many airlines refuse bags above roughly 80 linear inches (203 cm) or over 70 lb (32 kg) entirely, so very large or heavy items may need to be shipped instead.
Is checked luggage size the same on every airline?
The 62-inch (158 cm) limit is a common standard, but weight limits, fees and the number of bags included vary by airline, route and fare. Always confirm the details with your airline before you travel.