Baggage Restrictions
By Amy Ziff, Editor-at-Large
November 25, 2002
There have been an unprecedented number of changes in the airline industry over the past year. Every day there seems to be another carrier making an announcement about a change in fares, rules, restrictions, and baggage guidelines. By the time you've made it to check-in, if your bags are too heavy or too big, you're stuck at the mercy of the airlines. (This can get ugly, you may as well think of it as a neon flashing $$$ sign.) Policies are being strictly enforced and passengers need to remain informed.
The following are some of the basic guidelines, but for the most current carrier-specific restrictions you will want to call or check out your airline's Web site in advance.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is in the process of taking over security, which includes baggage screening, at the major commercial airports around the country. Therefore, travelers can expect to see further changes to these rules in the next few months. One thing travelers can count on for the foreseeable future is that TSA officials will be strictly enforcing the 1+1 policy permitting ONLY two carry-on items per passenger. They will not permit travelers to go through screening with more than two items, so if you have an additional item, such as a coat, umbrella, or purse, be prepared to discard it or stow it within another bag. Remember that all carry-on items are subject to size and weight limitations and should not exceed 40 pounds or 45 linear inches (the sum of the length, height, and width of a bag).
Companies like Delta Air Lines announced new baggage policies in the summer of 2002 that reduced the number of free checked bags from three to two. However, Delta said they will permit a third checked bag for an additional fee of $40. ATA and Southwest actually allow three checked bags free, whereas the majority of the carriers only allow two. Most airlines start charging at around $80; charges climb with each additional bag. Travelers should consider shipping over-sized and heavy items ahead of time.
The current size and weight guidelines generally require that each suitcase weighs no more than 70 pounds and does not exceed 62 linear inches. However, some carriers, including Northwest Airlines, have already announced that the weight limitations are going to drop to a 50-pound maximum as of December 15, 2002. Holiday travelers beware! (Think about shipping gifts separately this year.)
Another baggage rule to keep in mind is that many airlines require you to have completed checking in your baggage at least a half-hour prior to departure. You are also required to place your name, address, and e-mail information on all luggage tags. Lastly, leave your checked luggage unlocked as screeners may need to open bags and will otherwise be forced to cut off the locks.
Once travelers know the rules, it will be easier and speedier to maneuver through domestic airports. (But remember part of knowing the rules is staying current with them. These things change all the time so it's prudent to double-check with your carrier prior to packing.) Besides, if you've ever struggled with a bag that was too darn heavy, you're likely to appreciate these new rules which force you to think twice when packing. Hey, they may just pleasantly lighten your load.
Related Links
Read more tips by Editor-at-Large Amy Ziff:Not All Travel Packages Are Created Equal
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