The price of an airline ticket includes not only transportation for the passenger, but for personal baggage as well. The fare paid dictates the kind of seat and service but also the baggage allowance. And while actually paid for as part of the ticket, it is called the "Free Baggage Allowance" determined by each airline. It includes checked baggage, carried in the aircraft hold, and cabin baggage, brought along in the aircraft cabin.
Free allowance baggage is generally defined as those items necessary for the passenger's journey, such as clothing and personal articles within certain limitations.
Below are general guidelines to help you plan your travel, but please make sure to check with your airline first as baggage allowance may differ depending on route, class fare, etc.
Checked baggage
In general, checked baggage is expressed in one of two ways.
- The "weight concept" defines the amount of baggage entitled by the passenger's ticket in kilos. For example, an economy class passenger may be entitled to 20 kilos of baggage and a business class passenger to 30 kilos.
- The "piece concept" defines the number of bags entitled by the passenger's ticket. Generally, two pieces of checked baggage are allowed per passenger, each piece weighing no more than 32 kilos (70 lb) and measuring no more than 158 cm (62 in) adding the dimensions: height + width + length.
The "piece concept" is generally in use on flights within, to and from Canada and the United States.
Cabin Baggage
Carry-on baggage must be stowed in the aircraft cabin which limits baggage to a size, weight and shape to fit under a passenger seat or in a storage compartment.
Cabin baggage should have maximum length of 22 in (56 cm), width of 18 in (45 cm) and depth of 10 in (25 cm). These dimensions include wheels, handles, side pockets, etc.
Carry-on items must remain with the passenger at all times and are the responsibility of the passenger.
Any Idea How Much Your Suitcase Weighs ?!?
In order to avoid trouble at the airport terminal, make sure that your suitcase doesn't weigh more than 32 kilos (70lbs), or you will be asked to repack and transfer some of your belongings into another bag.
Please note that the maximum weight limit relates only to single items and does not affect the baggage allowance or excess baggage charges, which is set by individual airlines.