In order to fly safely, planes have a maximum allowable weight. Thus, luggage that is checked and loaded into the plane's cargo bay must not exceed a certain amount. The airlines themselves are the ones who make the regulations regarding the allowable weights of checked luggage. For example, El Al allows two checked suitcases per passenger, each no more than 50 lbs. and charges a $25 overweight fee for bags that weigh more. Delta Airlines also places a 50-lb. weight restriction on checked luggage. On Delta planes, checked bags must not be larger than a combined width and length of 62 inches.
Most airlines have rules about carry-on luggage. On El Al, for example, passengers may carry one carry-on item plus one personal item. A carry-on item will not be weighed in most cases, but must be small enough to fit either under your seat back or in the overhead compartment. Individual airlines also have size restrictions for their carry-on items; always check with the airline before packing. Pillows, blankets and purses are all examples of allowed personal items. Delta Airlines follows the same guidelines: one carry-on item and one personal item per traveler.
The TSA governs regulations concerning carry-on luggage in security lines in all U.S. airports. Passengers are required to carry most of their liquid items in their checked baggage in order to avoid holdups at the security lines, but liquids in carry-on luggage must conform to certain standards. Passengers are allowed 3.4 oz. of liquids in a quart-sized clear plastic bag. This allows TSA agents to quickly x-ray all the liquid items together, making the lines move faster. Other liquid items, such as medicines and baby formula may be carried in larger amounts, but must be declared to security officers in the line.
The Transportation Security Administration also determines what other items can be carried onto a plane. Passengers are never allowed to carry flammable items through U.S. airports. Items associated with martial arts are also forbidden, as are any tools, sports equipment, weapons or sharp objects. Any sharp objects, such as razors, that are in checked luggage, must be wrapped very carefully.
