Go to the website of the airline company that you are traveling with. There will be a section on the site detailing the rules and regulations regarding luggage to be taken on the flight.
Read the regulations on luggage to be checked in. There is a weight restriction on the amount of luggage each passenger may check in. Bags must be under 50 lbs on most airlines. Any excess weight, or excess cases will be subject to a charge.
Most airlines permit passengers to have one carry-on bag and one personal item, which may have a combined total weight of 40 lbs.
This limit and any charge for excess weight varies for competing airline companies so it is important to know what the limit is and to be prepared to pay extra if the need arises.
Check the size restrictions stated by the airline. For most American airline companies, the standard regulations are that checked baggage must not exceed 62 linear inches and carry-on luggage must not exceed 45 inches. That is the sum of the length, width and height of the case.
Again, this will be different depending on the airline so it is important to check the regulations on the company website.
Be aware of the rules regarding liquid items. While simple toiletry items may be checked in, there are restrictions on liquid items being taken in carry-on bags. As of 2010, liquids must be in containers less than 3.4 oz. and stored together in one 1-quart zip-top bag.
Consult the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website if you are in any doubt about specific items that are to be taken on the flight. The contents of any luggage to be taken on airplanes must adhere to the regulations set out by the TSA. There are varying rules for check-in baggage and carry-on as well as a list of prohibited items on the TSA website.
