What are the rules for checking bags at the airport?

Typically, airlines allow checked bags that weigh up to 50 pounds and whose dimensions (length + width + height) are 62 inches or less. Airlines allow overweight bags (up to 70 pounds), but you may have to pay extra for heavier baggage unless you're flying in a premium cabin or have elite status.



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Firearms and ammunition, as well as any replicas or imitations. Explosives and flammable items, such as fireworks, gas, and aerosols. Poisonous and toxic substances, including pesticides and certain chemicals. Lithium batteries and other hazardous materials, as these can pose a safety risk if not handled properly.

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Checked Luggage Most airlines will allow you to check one bag and have one carry-on bag. There is normally a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds per checked bag as well as a size restriction. The most common maximum size bag allowed is 62 linear (total) inches. A common size bag for checking through is: 27 x 21 x 14.

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Checking In Your Luggage Depending on your destination, an airline agent first asks for your tickets, passports (including visas, if required), and other documents. Once you hand over your luggage for the check-in, the counter agent places your bag on a scale and weighs it.

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In Standard Screening Lane
  1. Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin.
  2. Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on).
  3. Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.


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Is toothpaste considered a liquid by the TSA? Yes, toothpaste must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels. Toothpaste can be brought through TSA security in your carry-on as long as it is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a 1-quart bag.

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What is considered a personal item bag varies from airline to airline, but a small purse, briefcase and laptop bag are always considered personal items. Backpacks, totes, and crossbody bags are typically considered personal items too. The key to remember is it must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

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Domestic carry-on policies. A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.

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Domestic carry-on policies. A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.

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Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

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The FAA has limited passengers flying within the United States to one piece of carry-on luggage and one personal item. Personal items may include: handbags, briefcases, laptops, daypacks and small backpacks.

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It is recommended that medication be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process. You may bring medically necessary liquids, medications and creams in excess of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag. Remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings.

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Checked Bags: Yes
The capacity of each container must not exceed 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces). See the FAA regulations for more information. Permitted aerosol release devices (button/nozzle) must be protected by caps or other suitable means to prevent accidental release.

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We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage.

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Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

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You can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free on most domestic and international flights.

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Can you put clothes in your personal items? Certainly, you can pack clothes in your personal items or carry-on bag.

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What is allowed in your carry-on bag?
  • Alcoholic beverages. ...
  • Baby food and equipment. ...
  • Cooked meat, seafood, vegetables and other prepared foods. ...
  • Disposable razors. ...
  • Electronics. ...
  • Lighters and matches. ...
  • Nonflammable liquids under 3.4 ounces. ...
  • Prescription medication.


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Airlines may sometimes ask you to buy a new seat in order to fit your big item. Then, the additional fee will be significant. Even worse, if your personal item is too large or heavy, it is possible that you have to leave it or be denied entry.

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You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

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TSA allows bringing nail clippers on planes. You're allowed to pack them in hand and checked baggage without any packing restrictions. They're considered harmless because the blade on them is too short to successfully be used as a weapon.

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