# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Packing for Trips

Airline Rules for Checked Luggage

Luggage rules are the combined restrictions imposed by the U.S. government and individual carriers. Those imposed by the U.S. government are enforced by the Transportation Security Authority (TSA) at security checkpoints, while those imposed by airlines are enforced by agents at check-in. Airline rules can depend on a variety of circumstances, such as whether the traveler is a frequent flyer, an economy or business class traveler and whether the traveler's destination is domestic or international.

Transportation Security Administration
- Rules imposed by the TSA dictate just what is and isn't acceptable to pack. Items fall into two categories--prohibited and restricted--with prohibited items being banned from carry-on and check-in, or simply just carry-on. Restricted items tend to have bans placed in regards to the quantity of an item that may be carried. An example of a prohibited item is aerosol; it can neither be brought in through carry-on or check-in. Many sporting goods, such as baseball bats and golf clubs are allowed through check-in only. Items allowed in restricted carry-on quantities are lotions and other liquids or gels. The exception to this rule is baby formula and other feeding necessities for an infant, provided an infant is traveling.
Luggage Allowance
- The amount of bags that can be checked in can depends upon the destination. If an airline does allow a free bag for domestic flights (and very few still do), then only one free bag is allowed. Afterwards, fees are incurred. American Airlines, Delta, United and Spirit Airlines charge for the first domestic bag checked. On international flights, rules vary depending on the destination. United and American Airlines allows one free bag for travel from North America to Europe or India. Two are allowed for travel to Asia, Africa and many other destinations. Generally, places like Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are treated as domestic when it comes to baggage restrictions, and bags in excess of the allowance will incur fees.
Luggage Size
- Airline rules tend to be uniform in regards to the size of luggage. Sixty-two linear inches--meaning height, length and width combined--are the general norm. Anything in excess of this will incur penalties. Weight restrictions can vary, from a low of 40 pounds per bag to a high of 70 pounds (usually for international destinations), with the norm being a 50-pound limitation. When a bag exceeds the allotted weight and/or length, the airline reserves the right to impose penalties for both. In addition, it can charge penalties for exceeding the allotment---meaning one bag can be charged three penalties in certain circumstances.