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Restriction on the weight of baggage on the plane. What is the allowed weight of luggage on the plane? Useful information. Is it worth wrapping a suitcase with foil

As soon as you have bought a plane ticket, or better before booking a trip, pay attention to the conditions of baggage transportation. Each airline has its own requirements. The minimum information will be specified when booking the flight, and for details, go to the section of the carrier's website, where the conditions of carriage are indicated. And read our review)

What are the standards for things on the plane

When boarding, everything that the passenger is carrying is inspected and weighed. It turned out that the suitcase exceeds the permissible weight or dimensions - difficulties will arise during registration, which threaten not only a loss of time and nerves, but also unplanned expenses.

Pay attention! Musical instruments and animals are transported separately, regardless of the volume of other items. Norm free carriage does not work on them, you will have to pay extra according to the tariff scale.

In international air transportation, there are 2 generally accepted measures for the transportation of passenger suitcases: the weight concept and the piece concept. Free and paid flight options with things are affected by:

  • service class,
  • flight duration,
  • baggage dimensions,
  • weight of things
  • direction of flight.

Weight concept or weight measure sets a limit only for the weight of passenger bags. It is used by most carriers in Asia, CIS countries and some European companies. For adult passengers and children over two years old, the weight gauge allows you to transport free of charge:

  • Economy - no more than 20 kilograms;
  • Business - no more than 30 kilograms;
  • The first - no more than 40 kilograms.

These restrictions include the combined check-in weight and hand luggage for one flying. Information about the norm of things is placed on the purchased air ticket. If the requirements change, the carrier must notify the passenger. It is allowed to take into the cockpit itself no more than 10 kilograms, up to 1.15 meters in size, without additional payment.

If a child under two years of age is flying without a separate parent seat, the amount of things allowed for it will be 10 kilograms.

Piece concept or quantitative measure defines the number of units carried per passenger. Distributed by airlines in Canada, USA, in most countries of Central and South America... Among Russian airlines this measure is used by Aeroflot.
With a quantitative measure, regardless of the class of the ticket, it is allowed to carry no more than two bags with a weight of up to 32 kilograms each free of charge. The combined weight of the seats is irrelevant and cannot be summed up. Maximum dimensions for quantitative measure:

  • Economy - no more than 1.58 meters
  • Business - no more than 2.03 meters;
  • The first is no more than 2.03 meters.

Keep in mind: no matter what difficulty or distance the flight is, the loading and unloading of things is paid by the airline.

Oversized baggage

Oversized on an airplane is:

  • baggage piece weighing more than 32 kg and dimensions in all dimensions more than 2.03 m,
  • any sports equipment,
  • any musical instruments,
  • Appliances.

If you are flying abroad, remember: checked baggage is checked baggage, cabin baggage (hand baggage / carry-on) is hand luggage.

You will have to pay for the carriage of baggage in excess of the norm; it is best to clarify and arrange the airline's tariffs and payment terms in advance. And at the front desk, simply present a receipt for payment of oversized items.

The airline may refuse to carry oversized baggage if there is not enough free space in the baggage compartment or cargo of this size does not pass through the loading hatches.

Transportation of fragile and valuable baggage

We recommend that you keep important, fragile and valuable things and documents with you and take them into the cockpit of the aircraft if they fit like hand luggage in size and weight. If fragile and valuable luggage is large, but less than 75 kilograms, it will be allowed to be carried in the cabin on a separate ticket.

If the fragile baggage does not arrive intact, the carrier will not admit his guilt. After all, airlines do not bear legal responsibility for the safety of fragile things.

With a mass of over 75 kilograms, you will have to buy several pieces that are multiples of the difference in the weight of the luggage and the standard weight for 1 piece. There is no discount system for these tickets.

Hand luggage


Passenger items transported by plane are divided:

  • luggage - these things travel in the luggage compartment and are handed over to the employees of the carrier's company at the check-in counter before boarding the plane;
  • carry-on baggage - things that the passenger takes with him to the cabin of the aircraft, their weight and volume are limited by the airline.

Usually, hand luggage should fit into the standard: when traveling in economy class, the weight is 10 kilograms with a size not exceeding 1.15 m; when traveling on business, the weight of a suitcase is not more than 15 kilograms, the sum of measurements should not exceed 1.15 m.

In excess of the norm, excluding the total weight of baggage, a passenger can carry into the cabin of the aircraft:
flowers and a handbag, a coat and a stole, an umbrella and a book, a camera and a camera, a laptop and a tablet, a stroller for a baby, a bag with groceries or a package.

But it is not exactly)
Low-cost airlines greatly narrow the list of things that you can take with you. Check your airline's website for the exact list.

Regular flight baggage

Each passenger of the plane can carry a certain amount of things without payment. The exact amount depends on the type of aircraft and airline regulations. One of the advantages of flying by large companies with regular flights is a large baggage allowance. Carry up to 23 kilograms in your baggage for free and up to 7 kilograms in your carry-on baggage.

Exact size free luggage is always listed on your ticket.

Buying tickets for regular flight for a discount, check with the airline for the maximum size of items in your luggage and in the cabin. Understand the maximum as approximate. It is important that the sum of the three measurements in the height, width and depth of the passenger's bag is less than the sum of the dimensions in the airline's table.

Flying with luggage on low-cost airlines

The allowed baggage size for low cost airlines is significantly less than usual. Some low-cost airlines do not allow to carry baggage at all without additional payment, and also severely limit the carry-on baggage allowed into the plane.

Air discounters strictly check the compliance of things with the rules and make money on inattentive passengers who have not read the rules of carriage. There are scales and frames near the check-in counter and at the exit to the plane, in which carry-on baggage should be placed. If the bag is larger, you will have to check it in and pay a lot.
Only 1 piece of baggage will be admitted to the plane of a budget company. Some low-cost airlines will still allow you to carry an additional handbag and laptop into the salon. Read the airline's rules carefully.

If your carry-on baggage is overweight and there is nothing to remove, then register and pay for your baggage in advance online before arriving at the airport. Checking in your baggage at the counter before boarding will cost twice as much. And the payment at the gate upon boarding will result in a substantial sum.

Advice! Low-coasters do not limit the amount of clothing a passenger can carry. Put on the most voluminous and heaviest things.

A flight with an airline in a discounter allows you to save a lot, but take your things to a minimum and carefully read the rules for transporting baggage and hand luggage. Then there will be no problems and no loss of money when boarding a flight.

Charter baggage

The rates for the carriage of belongings on a charter flight are determined by the tour operator who sells the tour and is the charterer of the aircraft. On charter flights, passengers are allowed to carry one piece weighing no more than 20 kg and 10 kg for children under 2 years old (if a separate seat is not provided for the child). The free allowance for charter flights is the same for business and economy class.

Most often, charter companies add up the weight of the seats for passengers flying together. But it is still better to divide the luggage evenly, since the company simply will not accept items weighing more than 30 kg for transportation without additional payment.
Carry-on baggage allowance on charters is 5 kg per passenger. On a charter, the dimensions of baggage and carry-on baggage are not strictly monitored; a slight overweight is often passed without additional payment.

What to do with your luggage when you are flying with a transfer

In transit, you can fly by airplanes of the same or different airlines. It is more convenient when you change trains without changing the carrier company:

  • all flights will be registered in one ticket,
  • you hand over your things at the airport of departure, and you receive them upon arrival,
  • airline employees are responsible for the flight of your belongings.

If you carry things that need to be declared, you will have to get your baggage at the intermediate point and check it in yourself after screening for the next flight.

It is more difficult when you are flying with planes of several airlines. If the companies are partners and you checked in your baggage to the final destination, there will be no difference. But when the carriers are not connected, you have to sweat:

  • there will be separate tickets for each of the flights,
  • things will have to be collected and returned at the transit airport,
  • being late for connection and safety of luggage is your headache.

If you have a connection, allow for more time to go through the registration process and move around the airport. Familiarize yourself with the airport map in advance and plan your way at the connecting point. Travel with hand luggage only.

When we fly without luggage

More and more independent travelers choose to fly without checking in their luggage. Fly with hand luggage - The best way save time and money and get only positive emotions from the flight.

Save time

Checking in and luggage screening takes time, as does standing in a queue for check-in. Travel with carry-on luggage and check in for your flight before you arrive at the airport - skip the line or waste time.

Another waste of time is baggage claim. Waiting for luggage after the aircraft arrives can take up to 1.5 hours depending on the arrival airport. If you have only hand luggage with you, you can go about your business immediately after leaving the plane and passing through passport control.

Enjoy your flight

The worst nightmare of a traveler is the loss of your suitcase by an airline. Of course, most often things are found, but this unpleasant experience is not worth experiencing. But what about the fears that the suitcase will be damaged during loading or open and steal something of value.
When your things are traveling nearby in the cabin, there will be no convulsive experiences and worries. A comfortable and roomy bag that you take in your carry-on luggage guarantees no unnecessary worries.

Avoid unnecessary spending

Overweight is a frequent and unpleasant phenomenon for travelers, which threatens with additional expenses. In addition, if you fly without luggage, you can easily get around by low-cost airlines with their incredibly low prices.

The main difficulty when flying with hand luggage is the ability to refuse unnecessary things. Learn to hit the road with a minimum of luggage. This is especially useful for connections and difficult routes. Take all your belongings with you on the plane and your mobility will allow you to visit more places in one trip.

What you can take on the plane in hand luggage

When you fly with luggage, take into the cockpit only what you need during the flight: your favorite book, gadgets, documents and a warm jumper. It is better to keep valuable and fragile items with you too. But if you are traveling exclusively with hand luggage, check which things to pack and which ones you have to leave at home.

A standard “flight” bag should not exceed 1.15 meters in total in all dimensions or be no more than 55x40x20 centimeters. The allowed weight depends on the carrier, but rarely exceeds 10 kg per passenger. If the dimensions are not met, you will have to check in your luggage.
Low-cost airline requirements for the size of the flight bag can vary significantly. If you don't want to pay extra, read and fulfill all the conditions of the low-cost carrier.

List of things allowed on the plane

  • Food: Any solid food can be carried on board. Do not try to bring in liquids, jellies or creams larger than 100 ml. Take food and drink for your child in reasonable quantities with you and do not have to be placed in plastic, but you will need to present it during the inspection. Be prepared for additional questions and requests to open and taste the content.
  • Medicines: Take any non-liquid medicines in reasonable quantities, it is better if they are in their original packaging and with instructions. At a large number medicines or if the products contain narcotic substances, have a prescription and a certificate from your doctor with you, so that there are no problems at customs.
    The volume of liquid medicines and sprays should be less than 100 ml. But you cannot carry aerosols and syringes.
  • Technique: the list of devices that can be transported by air depends on the security requirements of the country. Usually there are no problems when transporting a phone, laptop, tablet, camera and player. You can also take small household appliances (electric shaver, electric toothbrush and hair dryer). In case of suspicion, the inspection service may require you to turn on the device and demonstrate its operation.
    Carrying equipment in your carry-on baggage - remember that the airline limits the number of items in the cabin per passenger and their size.
  • Documents and valuables: passport and all documents required for travel (hotel reservations, tickets and car rental), as well as valuables, it is better to take them in the aircraft cabin. If the luggage is lost, all the documents necessary for staying in the country will be on hand.

  • Cosmetics: carry loose and dry cosmetics without problems, but with liquid cosmetics it is more difficult: the total volume of liquid substances in your carry-on baggage should not exceed 1 liter, and the volume of one bottle should not exceed 100 ml. If the conditions are not met, you will have to throw away your favorite items at the screening or return to the check-in counter and check in your luggage. It is forbidden to take aerosols and containers under pressure on the flight; replace them with dry products.
  • Hygiene items: there is a ban on piercing and cutting objects, regardless of their size, on the plane, so nail scissors, combs with a sharp metal handle and dangerous razors will not work. Take the paste in a tube of less than 100 ml to avoid problems.
  • Baby accessories: airlines allow you to take a stroller or a carrycot for a baby on the plane without surcharges. They are checked in as carry-on baggage and handed over to the staff at the entrance to the salon.

How to carry Duty Free goods on the plane

In a duty-free trade area or while flying on international flight you can buy products Duty Free... There will be no problems with solid goods, but when transporting liquids (perfumes, alcoholic beverages, etc.), you need to be aware of the rules:

  • duty-free products must be sealed and packaged in a special way;
  • do not open the package before arriving at the destination and passing the control;
  • the bottle unpacked at the airport may be prohibited from taking on the flight.

Having bought alcoholic beverages in Duty Free, find out the customs requirements for the export and import of spirits in the country of destination. When buying in Duty Free on a difficult route, find out the rules for transporting goods in the country of transit and the requirements of the carrier.

When returning to Russia, you can carry no more than 3 liters of alcohol per passenger free of charge. When transiting through the Schengen area, alcohol will be required to be checked in. And when departing from US airports, only alcohol purchased in the American Duty Free will be allowed in the cockpit.

Not all low-cost airlines allow you to carry a package with duty free without surcharges, it is considered a separate place and you will have to pay for the carriage.

What is prohibited on the plane

It is forbidden to carry any dangerous substances or objects on the plane that could harm other passengers. These are all types of weapons and weapons-like toys, radioactive, poisonous, corrosive substances and gases under pressure. The customs service also has its own restrictions, they relate to money, jewelry, alcohol, tobacco, various valuable things and art objects.

It usually doesn't occur to budget travelers to pack something from this list, but on the signs at the airport you will find just such a list of prohibited substances.

Rules for carrying liquids on board

On the plane, they will be allowed to take a maximum of 1 liter of liquid substances, in addition, all funds are asked to be poured into separate containers of 100 ml. Moreover, liquids are only water, but also any creamy and jelly-like products.

Please note that it is prohibited to carry liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, partially filled. If 50 ml of shampoo is packaged in a 400 ml bottle, you will have to part with the product during the inspection.

  • stock up on mini-packages, it is better with an indication of the volume on the package;
  • distribute all liquid and creamy products into containers;
  • pack all the products in one transparent bag, preferably 20 by 20 centimeters in size;
  • check that the total volume is not more than 1000 ml (10 containers).

Where can I get the right 100 ml containers? Leave the mini-packs that are given when you check in at the hotels: you will have shampoo, shower and cream. Buy miniatures cosmetics or a travel set of cosmetics, it contains 50-100 ml. There are universal containers for travelers on sale, all you have to do is pour your favorite products and collect your luggage.

Zip-Lock, which is sold at any office supply store, is a great package. And yet, the volume of liquid funds of travelers flying together will not be summed up.

How not to lose your luggage when flying

If you are afraid of losing your luggage during the flight, take measures before the flight to reduce the likelihood of loss:

  1. Remove used baggage tags after your flight. It is easy for an airport worker to make a mistake if the suitcase is covered with old tags and stickers and sends the luggage along a different route.
  2. Keep valuable and necessary things with you. If it is not easy to replace a thing, take it into the cabin, because the carrier is not responsible for the loss.
  3. Mark the suitcase on the outside, indicate the city, surname and contact, better on English language... Inside the bag, also put a piece of paper with contacts, and a request to return the luggage.
  4. Take a photo of the bag inside and outside, keep a list of all your valuables, it's great if you can justify their value by presenting a receipt.
  5. Remove the outer straps during flight - they will snag on the transport line and the suitcase will get stuck.
  6. Wrap your luggage in plastic foil, use the packaging at the airport or roll it yourself. Stretch wrapping protects against burglars and damage in transit.
  7. Choose discreet models or buy a special case. Luxury suitcases attract too much attention, expensive bags can be stolen for the purpose of theft.
  8. Install it on the combination lock and change the code: this will protect the bag from being opened when the zipper falls and diverge and will scare off or at least slow down the robbers.
  9. Insure your luggage against loss: if the suitcase is lost, the insurance will cover the amount of damage. To do this without any extra hassle, use one of the shops to buy insurance online

Why baggage is lost:

  • 50% of baggage is lost due to failures and inconsistencies in the operation of the airport,
  • 15% of bags are not loaded on the plane due to the loss or absence of a baggage tag,
  • 15% remain on the baggage belt - passengers simply do not pick them up,
  • 20% of baggage is lost in other ways for various reasons.

Where do our missing suitcases end up?

When registering, a special tag with marking is hung on the bag, the ten-digit barcode contains full information about the baggage:

  • 6 last digits - unique baggage identifier
  • 3 digits in the middle - flight number designation
  • the first number is the baggage class.

The tag is a guide that allows the airport system to route baggage to the right route moving along the transport belt, the suitcase gets to the desired point: the luggage compartment of the aircraft or the baggage claim area. If the tag is not present, there is a problem on the line or the barcode is not read correctly - the bag ends up in lost luggage or is flying on the wrong route.

Where suitcases disappear at the airport:

    1. Far away: if a mistake is made in the labeling of the tag, the suitcase will fly on its journey: another city, country, continent - the larger the airport, the more exotic the suitcase route can be.
    2. In desperate obscurity: the tag is torn or loosely pasted and is lost when the suitcase passes the transport tape, such bags without identification marks settle in the area of ​​unidentified luggage.
    3. To the suitcase detectives. If the suitcase is lost or left not taken from the transport tape (yes, this also happens) and the tag on it is intact, the suitcase detectives come into play. By punching a barcode in the internal system, they find all the data about the owner and contact him to please with the news of the find.
    4. International wanted. The World Tracer System is an international baggage tracing system involving most of the world's airports. The system is automated and looks for the missing luggage itself, comparing the route, color, size and weight of the bag within 100 days, you just need to issue an electronic application in a special form.
    5. For opening and inspection: if the owner of the luggage does not show up within 5 days, the suitcase is opened, because personal belongings can help in finding the owner. If, after 2 weeks, the owner of the bag has not been found, it is sent to the storage warehouse.
    6. For auction: as soon as 100 days or 3 months of the owner lost luggage stop looking. All of these bags go to a special sale, where they are sold unopened. The starting price is very low, and the contents will be a surprise to the buyer. These types of auctions are quite popular in Europe and America, because there is always a chance to buy a suitcase with valuables inside.

What to do if the airline has lost baggage

  1. check in the oversized baggage claim area: non-standard suitcases, skis, strollers or sports equipment will wait not on the transport belt, but in a special baggage claim area.
  2. contact Lost & Found: every airport has a baggage tracing service. It's easy to find by following the Lost & Found signs. Show your luggage tag, identity document and fill out an application. It is important to describe the bag in detail and communicate special features.
  3. notify the airline: it will not be superfluous to go to the airline counter at the airport and clarify with them the procedure, if the luggage is lost on the charter - start from this point.
  4. 3 weeks have passed, and the suitcase has not been found - it's time to apply to the airline for monetary compensation for lost things. This is where a photo of the contents, an inventory of things and saved receipts come in handy.
  5. the airline refused - we go to court, in such cases the judge usually takes the side of the passenger, the carrier will have to compensate for material and moral damage.

The suitcase was found in another city or country - the airline is obliged to transport it at its own expense and deliver the baggage free of charge to the address indicated by the passenger - this is international rule which all carriers comply with.

If your suitcase is lost and you find yourself in a foreign country without all your belongings, contact the carrier company for compensation. Many international airlines, in such situations, allocate a small amount for basic necessities.

How to carry sports equipment on the plane: skis, snowboards, equipment.

If you are an active traveler, then more than once faced with the questions of how to carry skis or diving equipment, is it possible to fly with a snowboard for free and how much does it cost to transport a surf. We recommend solving all these issues at the stage or immediately after buying a ticket, at the airport it will be several times more expensive and, in the worst case, will result in a missed flight.
It is not so important winter or summer equipment, we suggest solving the issue of a flight with sports equipment using a simple and effective algorithm:

  1. try to fit into standard luggage: if the size of things allows you to fit into standard sizes and weight, we pack and fly;
  2. look for tickets from companies that transport sports equipment for free: such promotions are often carried out by airlines during the season on popular destinations;
  3. inform the air carrier in advance that you are flying with sports equipment, indicating the dimensions and weight;
  4. pack your equipment carefully and securely, it is better to use special covers for transportation;
  5. do not forget that sports equipment is handed out in the oversized baggage area, and not on the transport belt;
  6. Traveling with your exercise equipment is rarely cheap, but the experience is worth it.

Our top tip when flying: pack your luggage, remove the excess, and remove the excess again!

So, from this article you will find out: is it possible to carry an elephant-sized suitcase for free, why shaving foam will have to be left for inspection, how to take skis to the resort, why it is worth learning to fly without things, where to look for the missing suitcase and who are the suitcase detectives.

The first thing to know: not all luggage that you and your companions hold in your hands.

There are two concepts - luggage (it travels in the luggage compartment of the liner) and hand luggage (things that you take with you to the cabin).

The rules for their transportation differ from each other, both in terms of payment and content.- some things cannot be hand luggage (their list will be presented by any air carrier), some - luggage.

How many kg can I take in my checked baggage on the plane? There are two systems of restrictions: according to the number of places in the cargo compartment and its weight, as well as simply by weight.

If we turn to the experience of the most popular Russian air carrier, then several years ago Aeroflot took into account only the permissible weight: they put all the box bags on the scales, determined the size of the excess of the established norms - and the traveler paid for the excess weight (if any) strictly according to tariffs.

Today, there is a check not only by weight, but also by the number of baggage pieces.

There are established norms:

  • a business class passenger can carry (without paying) two seats, each of which is no heavier than 32 kilograms;
  • for those flying in economy class, only one piece of baggage will be accepted for free delivery, and the allowed weight of baggage on the plane should not exceed 23 kilograms.

To better understand this counting system, imagine yourself as an economy class passenger... Your luggage on the plane - how much kg is allowed?

You brought two suitcases with you to the airport - 13 and 10 kilograms, and it seems that you have met the limit (two suitcases pulled 23 kg), but you cannot do without a surcharge: an economy class passenger has the right to only one piece of baggage, for the next, you will be required to pay in the amounts established by the tariff scale.

Business class rules although the traveler has the right to carry two pieces of baggage free of charge, their weight cannot be summed up.

If you have a pair of suitcases, and their weight is distributed as follows: 44 and 20 kilograms, do not expect that the total weight of 64 kg will save you from additional costs.

For a 44-kilogram load, you will have to pay extra, since it is heavier than the 32 kg stipulated by the rules of transportation, which you can take.

Previously, the passenger paid extra for each specific extra kilogram. Today there is a tariff of fifty dollars for any excess... A business class passenger will have to pay twice as much.

If the rules have changed once, then who can guarantee that they will not change again? The main conclusion that a traveler must draw when analyzing this situation is the need to be interested in the rules in advance.

Check the information on the ticket(traditional or electronic). Most companies on the ticket indicate how much cargo passengers carry free of charge, how much maximum mass bags on the plane for one person (Russia or foreign carriers).

What will be the amount of additional payment for excess cargo for those companies that have not switched to a fixed "penalty"?

According to the general rules, the surcharge should vary in the range of one to two percent for each additional kilogram of the cost of an economy class ticket (one way).

Tariffs and dimensions of baggage

The dimensions of the transported cargo also matter when determining the cost of their transportation.

Measure the length, width and height - the sum of these three values ​​should not be higher than 158 cm(according to Aeroflot standards for economy class, it may be different for other carriers).

If it turns out that this amount is exceeded, be prepared to make an additional payment, according to the approved tariffs. Each company has its own.

For example, in order to transport a bicycle (it is an oversized cargo) "EasyJet" will issue a fixed invoice for 22.5 euros, and the Israeli "El Al" - for 70 dollars.

By the way, cargo significantly exceeding the standard dimensions is a reason for find out in advance whether they will be able to take it on board at all (just like a suitcase, much heavier than usual).

As they say, the plane is not made of rubber, there are concepts of "overload" and "flight safety" that cannot be ignored.

Oversized cargo can be a stroller, sports equipment, wheelchair for people with disabilities.

Usually, major airports have specially equipped points for boarding different types"Oversized". You can hand over the cargo to prepare it for the flight in advance.

When the rate increases

Increase in the free carriage rate for different companies usually a marketing ploy.

Indulgences are allowed to attract more passengers, especially on less popular routes during less popular times of the year.

For example, Aeroflot offers economy class passengers to travel with one additional piece of baggage free of charge, with the same standard weight of 23 kg, which is stipulated by the basic rules of carriage.

In order to take advantage of this benefit, you need to become a member of one of the many special programs offered to their customers by air carriers (this can be, for example, a program for holders of frequent flyer cards).

Feel free to inquire about "bonuses": almost all carriers conduct advertising campaigns, within which you can choose the option when your cargo will fly with you, without becoming an unbearable financial burden for you.

For what fee and how to increase the limit?


If your luggage is very heavy and bulky, it can be transported in the aircraft cabin, on adjacent seats, by purchasing additional tickets (they will not be subject to various kinds of discounts - for example, student or crew discounts).

Luggage weight on the plane for whom the ticket was purchased, as for a regular passenger, cannot exceed 75 kilograms... Otherwise, it will be necessary to purchase another ticket, and if necessary, not even one.

This is how musical instruments are transported, some fragile items that require careful handling. The same rules apply to pets. But a wheelchair is allowed to be transported free of charge.

Surcharge will be required if transporting goods with a declared value... This service will cost ten percent of the amount indicated by you.

For example, if you estimated it at 10,000 rubles, then you have to pay a thousand.

The rules of various companies

This issue must be studied in advance, because rules are set differently everywhere.

Even if you have purchased tickets for flights of two or more carriers at once, intending to change them as needed, because your route develops this way, no one will guarantee that once accepted cargo will not raise questions from the next carrier.

Even if it is included in the so-called code-share agreement: when cooperating, carriers are not obliged to adhere to uniform rules regarding the carriage of things.

First of all, this concerns tariffs. For example, the cost of an overweight of one kilogram from Lufthansa it will be 12 euros, from Alitalia - 21, and from " Qatar Airways"- 47.

Some companies may refuse to accept excess cargo altogether, if they did not take care to solve this problem in advance.

Sky Express, for example, will not give the go-ahead until it is convinced, whether there is additional free space in the cargo hold and whether the limit on the permissible weight has not expired.


If some companies (for example, in the Czech Republic) allow the Gold card holder to carry an additional weight of 23 kilograms for free, then other carriers can lure the client with low fares, and charge a fee for things (regardless of their weight).

"EasyJet", unlike the main Russian carrier, allows summing up the weight two travelers and with a limit of 20 kg, allow one to declare 18 kg, and the other - 22, at no additional charge.

Some companies (for example, RyanAir) have seasonal tariffs... In addition, there is a big difference between the amounts for suitcases that you put out at the airport or pay when placing an order on the company's website.

Knowing the rules about how many kg you can carry on the plane in baggage from different aviation companies, what is the permissible weight of suitcases per person on the plane, will not only save you from unexpected problems, but will also help you save money by taking advantage of any bonuses - seasonal discounts or special programs.

The information provided is only general rules for the carriage of baggage and important tips for our passengers. Each airline independently and individually determines the standard quantitative aspect and weight of luggage allowed on a given route. Therefore, in order to receive specific information, each passenger should familiarize themselves with the transportation with a specific carrier.

By twentymindsomething Flickr

Checked baggage is carried in the hold of the aircraft. Passengers pass it on during check-in. Such cargo must be properly packed and closed, and its contents must be reliably protected from damage under the pressure of other suitcases. It must also comply with the restrictions imposed by individual air carriers.

A luggage tag is issued for each suitcase and bag, the other end of which is given to the passenger. It is the basis for identifying baggage upon arrival and for complaints in the event of damage or loss. From this moment on, the responsibility for it is on the side of the carrier.

Carriage norms

There are no internationally established rules regarding the weight of the luggage. Allowable weight of baggage on the plane varies depending on the company the passenger uses. However, all airlines have their own franchise system - the weight and amount of baggage that can be carried in the hold of the aircraft.

Carrier rule

This rule states that on flights operated by several airlines, the baggage rules of the airline that makes the geographically longest and largest section of the route apply.

Dimensions (edit)

The size of the luggage depends on the type, booking class and route:
By Masashi Yanagiya Flickr
  • 150 cm - the maximum baggage size for most airlines, calculated on the basis of the sum of three values;
  • 20-32 kg is this weight range for low-cost airlines;
  • 1-4 - the allowed number of suitcases.

For security reasons, checked baggage is subject to certain restrictions.

  • Companies that operate regular flights.

The allowed free carriage of things depends on the reserved class of service and the status of the passenger:

  1. Economy class - 1 baggage up to 23 kg.
  2. Economy premium class - 2 suitcases, 23 kg each.
  3. Business class - 2 pieces of luggage, each up to 32 kg.
  4. First class - 3 luggage, each up to 32 kg.

Some companies charge the weight of the luggage, including the franchise. Therefore, in order to avoid unpleasant surprises, it is necessary to clarify the allowed weight and fees for excess baggage. There are also loyalty cards in international airlines that allow you to carry more than allowed items for free, regardless of the class of service.

Some restrictions

It is forbidden to share weight limits. For example, if two passengers are flying who can carry 15 kg baggage, in such a situation you cannot take one bag weighing 20 kg, and the other 10 kg. It is not allowed to combine weight restrictions - for two people of 15 kg, you cannot take a suitcase weighing 30 kg.

Many companies turn a blind eye to a shared suitcase exceeding the weight limit for 1 person and are rarely indignant, but you should still be careful and it is better to take an additional bag to transfer part of the cargo into it if problems begin and requests to pay for the excess.

Suitcases for children

It is not allowed to check in baggage for infants. If a child travels without a separate seat for less than two years, you can register for him:

  • luggage weighing less than 12 kg and dimensions not exceeding 55x35x25 cm;
  • checked packages up to 10 kg (for children's tickets).

Children aged two years and older enjoy the same standards as adults.

Children's transport (baskets for sleeping, strollers, car seats) can be taken on board as carry-on baggage, provided there is free space. Different conditions apply for different types and types of fixtures:

  • the stroller should not exceed the dimensions of 15x30x100 cm;
  • folding equipment that replaces hand luggage should not exceed dimensions 55x35x25cm.

Otherwise, things are packed and checked in as checked baggage. Any transport must be packed in a case that completely hides it.

What can be taken into the hold of the plane

Food

As for the transportation of food in the hold, they can be transported well packed, in unbreakable bags to prevent possible disasters (perishable and fragile goods are transported at the risk of passengers).

Animal products (meat, milk) may contain pathogenic substances that are responsible for the transmission of infectious diseases, so their transportation must comply with the legislation of the countries where they are imported.

Alcohol

When entering Russia, one passenger can carry a total of 5 liters of alcohol with a strength of less than 70C. If the norm is exceeded, it is imperative to have a receipt for its purchase, declare the goods and pay taxes.

On all domestic flights of the country, adult passengers can carry drinks with a strength of up to 240C without restrictions. In some countries, the import-call of alcoholic beverages has its own rules, which can be changed and adjusted.

Electronic devices and elements

Any electronic device can be taken in checked baggage, including mobile phone, laptop, tablet devices, MP3 player, hair straightener, cameras, electric shaver.

Oversized dimensions

Baggage in excess of 158 cm is considered large and can be carried at an additional cost. However, in any case, its weight should not exceed 32 kg. If the luggage exceeds 300 cm and weighs more than 32 kg, it must be registered as a cargo carriage.

Special cargo

A load that falls outside the norm due to its size or content is called special. This can be sports equipment, musical instruments, or animals. Some airlines, under certain conditions, allow special baggage to be taken as hand luggage in the aircraft cabin.

Musical instruments

Many carriers are allowed to carry delicate musical instruments in the cabin, such as guitars, which must be packed in a soft case. All other instruments that exceed the permissible dimensions, but not larger than the cello, must be carried in the hold of the aircraft.

Animals
By Sam Howzit Flickr

Large animals should be kept in dedicated air-conditioned areas of the cargo hold. Their transportation is carried out in a closed container of sufficient volume for a specific pet, in which it is necessary to provide access to drinking water... Additional charges apply.

Sports equipment

Sports-related baggage is called sports baggage. It can be skis, diving equipment, bicycles. Typically, such cargo is very large and heavy, and is most often transported in the cargo area of ​​an aircraft. However, smaller items such as a skateboard are not allowed as carry-on baggage as they can be used as an impact weapon.

Additional fees apply for sports equipment that requires special packaging. The carriage of sporting and hunting weapons must be registered. Ammunition must be carried separately from weapons and must be accompanied by appropriate permits.

Adjustable quantity of goods:

  1. Perfumes and aerosols should not exceed 2 kg or 2 liters per person and 0.5 kg or 0.5 liters per piece.
  2. Weapons - Knives, ammunition less than 19.1 mm in caliber, ammunition for hunting or sports and firearms up to 5 kg can be transported, subject to police regulations and the laws of the country of destination. They need to be carried in one bag, but all parts must be packed separately. Weapons may not be placed among the passenger's personal belongings.
  3. Cartridges - provided they are packed in a hard case. Store in original packaging and fill the entire space with cushioning material to prevent slipping.

Prohibited baggage and restrictions on carriage

Items that are prohibited from carrying in the hold of the aircraft:

  • explosive and incendiary substances, including mines, grenades, fireworks and other pyrotechnics, smoke-generating canisters, dynamite, gunpowder;
  • toxic, flammable, corrosive substances - gasoline, gas burners, lighter liquids, cooking fuel, flammable paints, solvents, aerosols (except for personal hygiene items);
  • infectious substances - bacterial cultures, viral organisms, medical laboratory samples;
  • oxidants and organic peroxides;
  • poisons - pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, arsenic, cyanides, etc.
  • magnetic materials - strong magnets;
  • marijuana (hemp) in any form;
  • organic substances - fiberglass, resins;
  • radioactive materials.

Items prohibited in carry-on baggage and allowed for carriage in the hold as checked baggage:

  • sporting goods, including baseball bats, softball and cricket tools, hockey sticks, ski poles, cues, bows and arrows;
  • knives - any length;
  • cutting tools - carpet knives and cutters, any device with a folding or retractable blade, metal scissors with sharp ends;
  • firearms - pistols, shotguns, rifles, parts;
  • paintball equipment;
  • tools - drills, saws, portable chainsaws, screwdrivers, hammers, pliers;
  • dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide) up to 1.5 kg.

Some rules for packing baggage

To prevent the suitcase from getting stuck on the conveyor belt, make sure all loose belts are tied or retracted, all latches are secure, and retractable handles are in place.

Golden Rules

  1. Always keep track of your belongings. Never leave your luggage unattended, even for a short time. Otherwise, it will become the object of police surveillance and may eventually be destroyed.
  2. Do not take luggage from third parties - never agree to look after bags or packages from people you don't know, regardless of motives or reasons.
  3. Be sure to write your name and address clearly on the inside and outside of your luggage.
  4. Jewelry, small electronics, money, keys, medicines, documents and other valuables are best carried in your carry-on baggage.
  5. All delicate and fragile items should be wrapped in a soft cloth or paper.
  6. Remove all marks from suitcases from previous trips. In some cases, this may result in items being sent to another airport.
  7. To avoid mistakes on arrival, mark your suitcase with a distinctive sign - ribbon, sticker, etc.
  8. Never carry objects of unauthorized persons on board the aircraft.
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Issues related to baggage allowed for carriage by air are quite exciting for many. After all, the rules are constantly changing, some of them are getting stricter. And for many passengers, the size of the luggage on the plane is of fundamental importance. Therefore, it is worthwhile to study the issue in advance, so that later on the check-in of bags and when weighing hand luggage, there will be no serious problems.

Today, carriers use two systems, taken as the main ones, which allow them to carry out the final settlement for the carriage of bags and suitcases. It:

  1. Weighing system
  2. By number of seats

The first option is often used on flights that go to the CIS countries and Asia.

An important point in the measurement system is the permissible weight, i.e. the one that is carried free of charge. Graduation of the number of kilograms directly depends on the ticket class. The following standards are in force today:

  • 20 kg per 1 passenger in economy class
  • 30 kg - in business
  • 10 kg per child up to 2 years

In the first system for calculating how much baggage you can take on board, the following principle works - a passenger can take as many bags as he wants, but their weight should not exceed the permissible standard. You will have to pay for all the extra pounds.

The second system implies that the minimum free kilograms should be packed only in one bag or two, if provided for by the class of the ticket. That is, if a suitcase is filled by 10 kg, it will already take up the permissible number of places, and you will still have to pay for a second suitcase or travel bag that does not belong to carry-on luggage, even if it is filled by 5 kilograms. This type of calculation is used for the most part in America. Among Russian companies, a similar scheme was introduced quite recently by Aeroflot. In such a payment system, a bonus is the fact that there is a little more free baggage allowance:

  • For the economy - 23 kg
  • For business - 32 kg

It is important to understand here that if passengers go on a trip together, their luggage cannot be summed up. Everyone is responsible for himself. As a result, if the bottom has an advantage, while the other has a deficit of kilograms in the suitcase, the first will have to pay extra for the excess.

There is also a bonus for regular customers airlines - they are provided with benefits for membership cards and for miles in the form of providing additional seats on board the aircraft, or the option is allowed with the addition of kilograms to the total amount of baggage weight.

Luggage dimensions

The dimensions of baggage, even for transportation in a special compartment of the aircraft, must be taken into account. So, it is considered standard and admissible for transportation without any additional procedures, except for weighing, a suitcase, which in the sum of its width, length and height is equal to 1.58 m. This measure is valid for a system that takes into account the number of places. In a weighing system, this indicator should be 2.03 m.

If your baggage is out of bounds, for example, you are carrying skis, bicycles and other oversized items, you will have to register them at a separate rack, and in some cases even pay extra. Luggage on an airplane in terms of size and weight in 2018 has the same parameters, but it is worth remembering that the situation may change.

After all, the principles of determining the luggage allowed on board are determined by the carrier himself. And you should regularly view the corresponding section on the airline's website or call hotline so as not to get trapped.

Excess baggage

Baggage, which by weight or number of pieces exceeds the limits stipulated by the ticket, is called excess baggage. And in most cases you will have to pay extra for it. There are, of course, carriers that allow a small overweight - a kilogram or two - without additional payment. But for the most part, for every kilogram in excess of the measure, you will have to pay money. The cost of excess baggage is different for each carrier. It is worth clarifying in advance how much money will have to be paid for an overabundance of things, if there is no opportunity or desire to pay too much.

Heavy luggage

Special attention is paid to luggage, which weighs over 30-32 kg. This is called ponderous. This also includes those options that go beyond the permissible dimensions:

  • Skis and sports equipment
  • Musical instruments such as guitar or double bass
  • Household appliances such as an oven or refrigerator

Such goods can be transported only by agreement with the carrier - it should be notified in advance. On the day of departure, you must arrive in advance, because it takes some extra time to drop off such baggage. At the same time, it should be understood that the air carrier may refuse to carry baggage, for example, if the baggage compartments are small, or the space in them has run out.

Fragile luggage

There is a need to carry fragile luggage - glass, decorative elements, paintings, etc. In this case, it will also have to be drawn up separately and a corresponding mark on the cargo should be put. If your baggage fits within the dimensions of your carry-on baggage, the best solution would be to carry it with you to the cabin to ensure the integrity of your belongings.

The issue of hand luggage in 2018 does not lose its relevance. Moreover, the data on it is constantly changing. The amendments made to the law are now working. Previously, carry-on baggage included up to 10 kg of free weight, now from 5. But at the same time, air carriers independently determine how much weight they are allowed to carry on board. So, major airlines countries said they will remain at 10 for now, both for regular tickets and non-refundable ones.

In general, on average, the following options for carrying hand luggage are valid:

  • Business class - 1 piece weighing 15 kg
  • Economy - 1 piece 10 kg

It is important to take into account the dimensions of the bag so that it goes under all the restrictions. So, carry-on baggage should be packed in a bag 55 cm high, 40 cm wide, 20 cm thick. Some carriers, such as Aeroflot, plan to check compliance with the dimensions using special limiter frames, which will allow you to immediately determine all the necessary parameters.

We take to the salon without registration

Carry-on baggage and other types of baggage include the following:

  • Costume
  • Notebook
  • Video and still cameras
  • Mobile phone
  • Books, newspapers and magazines
  • Outerwear
  • Ladies handbag
  • Briefcase
  • Walking stick and crutches
  • Umbrella

You can also take it with you to the salon, without making out in any way, baby food and a baby carrier.

We pack hand luggage

As carry-on baggage, the following items are checked in the aircraft cabin:

  • Eyewear repair tools
  • Pacemaker
  • Pharmaceutical devices that are only allowed to be kept with you
  • Robot toys
  • Razors
  • Eyelash curler
  • Oxygen cylinders for medical purposes, etc.

Carefully study the baggage allowance so that there are no troubles with their transportation. And if you have doubts about a particular piece of luggage, it is better to arrive at the airport in advance in order to arrange everything correctly, pay or postpone the excess.

Another summer travel season has begun, and again social networks filled with indignant remarks from passengers: many of them are somehow connected with luggage. Oh, they say, the airline "Aeroaero" is so disgusting, vile and greedy, did not let me on the plane and demanded to pay three more bags of money for baggage transportation. Guard, robbing!

Debriefing, as a rule, reveals that passengers do not know the baggage allowance on airplanes. Our people simply tamp as many things as possible into all available suitcases, and then at the check-in counter they begin to study the rules, nervously glancing at their watches.

So what is important to know?

It is important to start with the fact that there are two principles of baggage transportation: By weight and by places - the so-called weight concept and piece concept. The first is used by Transaero and UTair, as well as by S7 (since autumn they are switching to the piece concept, since they are part of the aviation alliance) and, for example, by Emirates. UPD .: UTair and S7 switched to the piece concept. The second is used by almost all other airlines; in the three alliances SkyTeam, StarAlliance and Oneworld - for sure.

By default, traditional airlines allow one piece of baggage free of charge. Moreover, this place (suitcase, bag, etc.) should not be more than a certain size (typical value is 158 cm in the sum of three dimensions, depending on the airline) and not heavier than a certain weight. The weight of the airline depends on the norms of free carriage: for example, in economy class it can be 15, 20, and (one of the most common options) 23 kg. Anything heavier is paid additionally. However, this does not mean that there would be money - carry at least a suitcase of pound weights. For such weights, there is a special restriction: two pieces in one hand.

This is, of course, a joke - but the maximum weight of one piece of baggage cannot exceed 32 kg - and this is not due to the centering of the aircraft, but to the work of loaders, who, due to working conditions, cannot lift more than this weight: pack your small but heavy suitcase, alas, there is no one. That is, if you want to carry a lot of heavy things, you will not have to put them in one large suitcase, but divide them into several small ones, or arrange an additional service for the transportation of excess baggage.

By the way, about small suitcases. Few people know about this, but if the total weight of your luggage (with hand luggage) does not exceed 10 kg, then the number of places is not limited. That is, in theory, suitcases with bubble wrap can fill the entire luggage compartment 😉 Although, of course, gross weight is considered, and that is why light suitcases are valued experienced travelers and they are expensive: after all, some Chinese consumer goods can easily weigh up to 5-7 kg empty - that is, less than the quota will remain for the "payload".

It is also useful to know that if you are flying with someone together, then the free allowance can be summed up. That is, roughly speaking, if you are flying on a business trip and you have two suitcases, but your colleague has none, then you will be allowed to carry these two suitcases - you will not need to issue an "extra" one for another person. The main thing is to get the consent of this very passenger: if he is really with you, then everything is simple, but if you decide to attract an unfamiliar fellow traveler to increase the rate, then you may have to thank him financially - which, however, in any case will certainly be cheaper than payment extra space luggage. However, in any case, the decision is made by a specific agent at the check-in counter, so this method is not guaranteed to work in 100% of cases.

In business class, the maximum weight of one piece of baggage is 32 kg. You can take two places, that is, up to 64 kg in total, or even three - that is, 96 kg! Free additional baggage allowances are often offered to Elite tier members as well bonus programs airlines. So you can save up for "silver" and "gold" at least for the sake of not thinking about how you will take home all your vacation purchases or what to throw out of your suitcase so that during a long business trip in winter you do not have to wear one and same.

For discounters, baggage transportation is usually not included in the ticket price at all (although there are special package fares with included baggage, which, of course, are more expensive than usual), and the addition of such an option significantly increases the passenger's expenses. At the same time, it is almost always cheaper to choose it immediately when booking a ticket, since the subsequent addition is usually more expensive, and if you remember about luggage only at the airport itself, then get ready to fork out. And if ordinary airlines often turn a blind eye to a small overweight of a kilogram or two, then discounters, even because of the extra 500 grams, may need to transfer something from their luggage to their carry-on luggage.

Carry-on baggage is another story. The same discounters carefully monitor its dimensions and even set up special “fitting rooms” at airports: if the bag fits into them, then you can, if not - check it in your luggage. With traditional airlines, it is sometimes possible to carry on board an impressive size suitcase that will not fit on the luggage rack and barely squeeze under the seat in front of the chair.

Do not forget that packages from duty-free shops can be taken on board in addition to hand luggage. Just be careful when traveling connecting flights: if during the transfer you do not stay in a clean area, but go through another security check, then your bottles may be considered "liquids in carry-on luggage" and you either have to transfer them to your baggage (if there was no check-in and you received it upon transfer), or have a drink right at the airport.

The transportation of sports equipment deserves a separate story: skis, bicycles and others like them. We'll get back to them soon. Well, uh, you already know.