Can you check a 32-inch luggage?
This is a question frequently asked by travelers. It’s also one of the biggest challenges travelers face when flying. Especially when it involves a bit of calculation with the measuring tape, scale, and maybe your pocket.
Sometimes It could be hard to find the right information on whether you can check a 32-inch suitcase. So we did some research to get you the most up-to-date information on this topic.
But first, let’s get some facts out of the way…
Table of Contents
Yes, you can check 32-inch luggage as long as the linear measurement (length, width, and height) does not exceed 62 inches. (62-inches is the maximum linear measurement permitted for checked luggage by most airlines). But the problem is the linear measurement for most 32-inch luggage usually exceeds 62 inches. Based on the research I have done, the linear measurement for typical 32-inch luggage is around 65-inches. With luggage of this dimension, there is a risk that you may not be able to check it in or you will be asked to pay an extra fee. For this reason, a 28-inch and below is a safer bet for checked luggage.
In addition to complying with the 62-inch linear measurement, 32-inch luggage must also meet the weight requirement of your airline. With this in mind, ensure you know your airline weight requirement, and weigh your luggage before you head to the airport.
Read on as I expatiate on these points.
The maximum allowable dimensions for checked luggage is 27 x 21 x 14 inches or 62 linear inches (length + width + height) including handles and wheels, according to Airline Baggage Fees.
If your luggage exceeds these limits, it will be refused at the check-in counter or you might have to pay extra. In order to avoid this, you should be aware of the size and weight requirements by airlines before you purchase your luggage.
When you book your flight, you’ll be asked whether you want to check a bag. If you’re not sure what size luggage to bring with you, here are some information that may help:
- You need to first check with the airline what their size restrictions are on checked luggage.
- Understand your class of ticket on the allocated size and weight by your airline. Business class tickets usually have allowances for extra checked luggage.
- It is safer to go for medium size checked bags.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to Carry-on Luggage
Related: Carry-on Luggage Rules
Sometimes bigger is not better.
As stated earlier, the maximum size for checked bags is 62 linear inches (length + width + height) including the wheels, handles, side pockets, and extending handle mechanisms.
And as such, your luggage should not exceed this.
However, it is important to keep in mind that each airline has its specific regulations about the size and weight of baggage so be sure to check with your carrier before departure.
3. If you do get an extra-large suitcase, let’s talk about weight
A luggage scale is an essential tool for weighing your luggage before you head out the door.
The TSA now requires travelers who pack more than 50 pounds in their carry-on bags or check bags to pay an additional $25 or $100 per checked bag.
In order to avoid these fees, it’s important that you weigh and measure all of your suitcases before loading them into the car or onto public transportation so you know if they are going over 50 pounds.
If one of your bags does go over 50 pounds, there are still a few ways you can save money: Ship it!
Related: 15 Best Luggage Sets & Travel Bags
FAQs
What is checked luggage?
Checked luggage could be a suitcase, a backpack, a duffel, or any other item that is too big for the overhead bin of an airplane.
It can be carried on the plane but has to be checked at the gate for loading onto the plane.
Checked luggage comes in three different sizes. The small checked which is about 23 to 24 inch, medium checked – 25 to 27 inch and then the large checked – 28 to 32 inch.
Will my bags be weighed at the airport check in counter?
Yes, all bags will be weighed and checked before they are allowed on board an airplane.
If your bag exceeds allowable weight limits, you may have to pay a fee.
For domestic flights, this is typically 50 pounds (or 22 kilograms). And while these fees vary from one airline to another, it’s important to know that exceeding any airline’s baggage policy can result in excess charges.
Plus, note that some airlines require passengers with oversized items to pay for two seats on the plane.
Can you check a 28-inch luggage?
Yes you can! Most airlines will allow you to check a 28-inch luggage.
But it will depend on the airline you’re flying with as well as the size of the bag.
Airline policies can be confusing sometimes, so always double-check with your airline before you pack.
If you’re not sure whether or not your luggage qualifies, here are some standard guidelines:
- The maximum size for luggage is 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
- The maximum weight of a checked bag is 50 pounds or 70 pounds at most.
28” and 32” luggage are in the same category of luggage size.
They’re both large luggage. And as long as your suitcase meets the 62 linear measurement requirement, you are good to go.
Final Thoughts
So, can you check a 32-inch luggage?
Yes, you can check a 32-inch suitcase so far the summation of the length, width, and height is 62 inches. However, keep in mind that most airlines have restrictions on what size of luggage they can accommodate. If your baggage exceeds these restrictions, you’ll need to pay for an extra seat when you fly thereby increasing the cost of your ticket. Additionally, since a 32-inch suitcase is already oversized, you might want to pack light so as not to pay extra for weight. But if you do have a scale and a measuring tape to help keep you in check, then I guess you’d do pretty fine.
Hope you’ve found the information in this article helpful.
Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below.
