How to use the baggage calculator
- Pick an airline type first, then edit the weight limits, linear limits and fees to match your actual airline rules.
- For each bag choose checked or cabin and enter length, width, height and weight to see volume, linear dimensions and whether it exceeds the limit.
- Overweight, oversize and extra bag fees are added per bag to give an estimated excess fee total.
How baggage limits are set
Airlines limit baggage weight and size for aircraft safety and efficient cargo handling. Weight is usually per piece and size is set by linear dimensions, the sum of length, width and height. Full-service carriers often give one or two free checked bags of about 23 kg in international economy, while low-cost carriers often start lower such as 15 kg, and both vary by fare type.
Cabin baggage typically allows one small bag of about 10 kg and about 115 cm in linear dimensions. This calculator also shows volume in liters, but airline rules look at linear dimensions and weight rather than volume, so volume is only a reference for how much you can pack.
Packing to cut excess fees
If you are overweight at the airport you must open the bag and move items or pay extra. Weigh your bag at home with a scale before leaving, and split heavy items between cabin and checked bags. Leave spare weight for shopping on the way back from the start.
Lithium battery items such as power banks, lighters and e-cigarettes cannot go in checked baggage under safety rules and must be carried in the cabin, with capacity limits. Liquids and gels in the cabin must be in containers of 100 ml or less inside a clear zip bag. These rules vary slightly by airline and country, so check before departure.
Baggage checklist
- Check the free baggage allowance on your booking confirmation first.
- The bag's own weight counts toward the limit, so choose a light bag.
- Measure linear dimensions including wheels and handles.
- Compare pre-purchased baggage with airport prices.
- Keep valuables, medicine and batteries in your cabin bag.
FAQ
What are linear dimensions?
It is the length, width and height of the bag added together. Airlines often limit size by this sum rather than by individual sides, and the measurement includes wheels and handles. Hard-shell cases have large outer dimensions and are more likely to exceed the limit.
Why do cabin and checked limits differ?
Cabin bags must be lifted into the overhead bin by the passenger so weight and size are kept small, while checked bags are handled in the hold and allow more. Even within one airline, allowances vary by route and fare.
Is paying at the airport more expensive?
Many airlines price baggage bought online before departure lower than paying at the airport. If you already know you are over, buying extra baggage at booking is usually cheaper, but check the airline notice for real fees.
Notes & limitations
The reference values and fees in this calculator are illustrative examples and may differ from real airline rules. Rules and fees change often, so check the airline's official guidance and edit the values yourself.