Typical Airline Luggage Rules All Passengers Must Follow
Nobody likes lengthy waits in the airport or being subjected to extra security screening. Sometimes these delays and inconveniences just happen, and all we can do is take a deep breath and wait them out. For the most part, however, you can help speed up your airport experience by following all the specific luggage rules of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and your airline. Not sure what to put in your luggage and what to leave behind? These basics can get you on your way safely and quickly.
If you are checking luggage, keep in mind that all airlines have weight restrictions. In general, you will have to pay an extra fee if your bags weigh more than 50 lbs a piece. If you are flying first class, some airlines allow you to have bags that weigh 70 lbs a piece. If you can, weigh your bags before you leave home. The extra fees can be quite expensive, and trying to rearrange your articles in the airport so that your bags meet the weight requirement is frustrating and eats up time.
Remember that you can never carry hazardous liquids aboard an airplane, either in your carry-on or checked luggage. Your airline can provide a full list of these liquids, which include lighter fluid, fuels, and industrial chemicals. Liquids in your carry-on are restricted to amounts of 3 oz or less, packaged in one quart-sized sandwich bag. Keep these at the top of your carry-on when you pack as you will have to take them out as you go through security.
Your carry-on luggage also needs to be small enough to fit into the overhead bins on your airplane. Remember that the smaller the bag, the easier it is to board. If your carry-on is too large and has to be checked at the gate, it may be delayed and you will more than likely be held-up while the flight attendant takes care of it for you. If you plan on using an MP3 player or book during the flight, put it in a small bag or purse so that you can access it conveniently without opening the overhead bin.
And if you can, pack light. Packing light saves time in the airport and saves you the headache of lugging half your closet around the world with you.