Largest Suitcase allowed on International Flights

Read the baggage allowance rules of your chosen airline before buying anything.

29 inches is too large for domestic carry on, let alone international. Most international carry limits are around 21 inches maximum, which includes the wheels.

If you are looking for a check through bag then 27 inches is the “normal” size though that varies by airlines.

Checked bags is what I am looking at. Thanks.

I'm not sure if there is a universal limit. You may need to check with your specific airline to make sure you meet their requirement.

A quick check of several carriers showed that if you were under 50 pounds and the total dimensions of your bag (length plus, width, plus depth) is 62 inches or less you should be fine. However, checking with the actual carrier before flight is highly suggested!

Then I looked on ebags. Yes, there are large spinner bags (I saw one at 27.5 inches that would qualify)

An obvious question comes to mind. Will you be able to handle this luggage at that weight when you arrive at your destination? I traveled with 3 huge suitcases like this when I went on a mission trip to Africa a few years back. I even had a vacuum cleaner taken apart and transported in one of the bags! I had a good reason to pack so many things, but even just claiming these heavy bags and pushing them around on a cart at the airport was difficult. Sometimes it is not just will the airline accept it, but also can I manage it.

Hey Gerry, which airline?

I fly with BA which has a very generous carry on and checked bag allowance.

Well, 29" spinners are big to handle. But, if you want suggestions... https://www.macys.com/shop/luggage/travelpro?id=20561&edge=hybrid&cm_kws=travel-pro

I have the 22" Travel Pro Walkabout - with the two rugged wheels. Got it a year ago on a huge sale - I think it was about $70 - maybe less.

It is lightweight and has a lot of room. Some Macy stores have them in so maybe if you are nearby, you can check them out. I don't care for spinners much as a checked bag.

This one is a 29" spinner and 8.5 lbs. https://www.macys.com/shop/product/closeout-travelpro-walkabout-3-29-expandable-spinner-suitcase-created-for-macys?ID=2584999&CategoryID=20561&swatchColor=Dark%20Purple#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D76%26ruleId%3D78%7CBOOST%20ATTRIBUTE%7CBOOST%20SAVED%20SET%26kws%3Dtravel-pro%26searchPass%3DmatchNone%26slotId%3D4

We sometimes travel with another couple who always bring the larger sized bag. They have never been measured, just weighed. 50 lbs is the usual limit.

I think most airlines have the 62 linear inches that Carol mentioned.
My old one is 28 inches (thought it was 26 for some reason). BTW do they measure down to the wheels on the bag? I assume not.
This one weighs over 12 lbs.
I sometimes travel for 7 weeks so have a lot of stuff so every inch matters. Also I am right up to the 50 lbs limit all the time so a lighter bag would be good.

Thanks Girasole for the tips. Looking at the 29 inch one here are the dimensions:

Exterior Dimensions:20.25"W x 12"D x 31"H (includes wheels)
Packing Dimensions:20.25"W x 12"D x 29"H

Interesting. Excluding wheels it just fits under the 62 linear inch dimensions. So as Barbara said, maybe they don't measure them? I myself never had a checked bag measured.

They absolutely do measure the wheels. Also the handle. Take a measuring tape to the store and do your own measurements, because bag dimensions often do not include anything except the basic case. That is definitely not the position the airline will take, and it will have every right to charge a grotesque oversize-baggage fee or reject the bag--depending on the corporate policy.

My same traveling couple carry a 21” bag as their personal item also. The last two trips we took together on Aer Lingus and Lufthansa, the airlines asked them if they would like to check their second bag and were not charged, either going or coming home. No measuring. Maybe they were lucky?

My old one is 28 inches (thought it was 26 for some reason). BTW do they measure down to the wheels on the bag? I assume not.

That is an assumption I would not make. Call the airline you plan to use to see 'what' they measure

This website might give you more information than you need, but their segue into sizes per airline is pretty clear. 62 linear inches including handle and wheels.
https://www.skyscanner.net/news/tips/check-in-luggage-size-and-weight-restrictions
It's in metric size and weight, but you wanted international flights....
You need to remember your luggage needs to be manageable on a lot of other vehicles and terrains than an airplane and airport.
A 28 inch bag is soon going to max out your allowed weight, so why not look at a 25 inch bag?
IT is a brand of light weight spinners and they have larger bags. I had a 22kg 25 inch I used for a cruise and it managed fine over a variety of rough terrain and I was carting it up and down stairs and onto trains. It handled fine, but I did notice a worn spot on a corner already. I admit, it isn't an expensive brand, but it has wheels that can be replaced and that is what I worry about being damaged. My theory, however, is that any bag can be damaged when checked, and I check infrequently, so I go cheap.

We just ordered two of these- 32" tall, and overall dimensions come in at 60.5". Just over 8 pounds

https://www.sierratradingpost.com/eagle-creek-96l-expanse-rolling-duffel-bag-32~p~639mf/?filterString=s~eagle-creek%2F

Down side- only two wheels, though they seem v. sturdy

We were looking for something that would work for 2+ weeks without having to do laundry and they seem like they'll work out well. (I'd rather haul a big bag through the Paris Metro system than worry about clean clothing status)

Maria, the reason I am looking for a big bag is to carry things like hiking poles in there. They just caused the zip on my old bag to burst. So a bit more length would help. I won't be going over 50 lbs.

Hi Gerry,

You are welcome.

I understand your need for taking a larger luggage if you are traveling for 7+ weeks. Would it be a consideration for you to take a 21" carry on and a 25" checked? Or, do you have a preferred carry on already? Or, do you just take one checked bag, and that is it?

The Travel Pro with two wheels has a lot of room, plus the front pockets for packing too. It's expandable. This past year, I used my Travel Pro as a checked. Worked really well and held up very well being tossed around as a checked bag.

There is also a brand called Kipling - known for its lightweight, strong material. Some have two wheels and four wheels. In the past, I have and used a 22" rolling duffel with two wheels on domestic and international trips. Check out Kipling.com-USA if interested.

eta: Just saw your above post and the need for a 29" bag. So, my suggestions may be moot. lol.

Another suggestion: Take some duct tape for "repairs." You never know when it may come in handy. Walmart and Michael's Crafts sell mini rolls in many colors. Walmart has them in their craft department with the Washi tapes.

A little colored duct tape on a handle can also help distinguish one black suitcase from a sea of its black bag peers.

Thanks for the duct tape tip! I could have used it this time when the zip started going. Ending up paying 12 euros to have the luggage wrapped. Not terrible for peace of mind.

I can't help on the luggage part except to say that wheels and handle length do matter to some airlines, even for checked bags.

BUT as far as a lightweight bit of duct tape, I saw flat little folders of strips of duct tape yesterday at Home Depot. They wouldn't take up much space and wouldn't require scissors as they were pre-cut.

Light packer weighing in here, although not as light as many on the forum. I'm one of those who packs for a week and travels for 4+, doing laundry along the way.

I recently bought these hiking poles to replace my Black Diamond ones stolen from our truck. There are many brands and price points for similar folding poles. They will fit fine in my new international 2-wheeled bag, my older domestic 2-wheeled bag and my domestic spinner. All those bags are about 3 pounds lighter than 8 pounds.

Knowing that I must manage my luggage on my own, I can't imagine schlepping a bigger bag than those on any trip, especially up and down steep slopes and stairs and on and off public transportation like trains, trams, subways, buses and ferries. At 73 and assuming the situation doesn't feel dodgy, I'll accept help when offered, but I certainly don't expect it.

For checked luggage airlines are only interested in the weight. I have never had my checked luggage measured (never had my carry on measured either) so I see no reason not to go with the largest that suits your requirements.

Hi again Gerry, You're welcome. The duct tape comes in handy.

And yes, as with an above poster, wrapping around brightly colored or neon duct tape on luggage handles and 'wheel base areas' definitely help identify the luggage on the carousel. One airport staffer at FCO thought it was a good idea.

I pack mini rolls - mostly black (and a small folding scissors.) Even when I am out and about during the day in Italy, I carried one in my tote.

I've seen people in the airport with the likeness of "saran wrap" around their luggage.

It's best to stick to the size and weight limits the airlines post. Just because people here say they have never had their bag measured doesn't mean it won't happen to you.

I tend to drive fast. I have never gotten a speeding ticket. Does that mean it will never happen? Of course not.

Airlines are also beginning to crack down on bag sizes. Flybe, a regional British carrier, rarely checked carry on bag size or weight. They just announced they are going to start checking every bag.

Wheels and handles count in the total size.

I'm not trying to talk you out of a checked bag if you want to take it but length of trip shouldn't matter. I just got back from 12 weeks in Europe with a carry on size bag and a personal item. I just did laundry more often.

I don't think you want a lecture on how to pack light. But, I'll take a risk. My first experience with any international travel was about 10 years ago when my son studied abroad and was in Europe for about 5 weeks. That's a long time, right? Didn't bat an eye when he grabbed his biggest suitcase (lightweight with spinning wheels), because there was no laundry where he was staying. Well, that big suitcase, was a huge pain. I believe the big suitcases that can hold up to 50 lbs still have the same size wheels as the smaller case. My other son and I met him for further travel when his studies were done. A wheel broke. The suitcase was huge and a problem on trains when we switched cities. It was huge walking thru streets. It was huge in small European rooms. Since then I've realized that you don't need more clothes for longer time frames. You just need to pack smart, layers, and wash a few things when you stay at places for 3 days or longer. I wash my clothes while I shower. When I went to Europe just a couple years ago with my daughters they were told they could have a backpack and a carryon size suitcase. We were gone a month and in warmish temps in Catalunya, very cold temps in Switzerland and Austria and more moderate temps in Paris. It's about layers and versatile clothes. One of my daughters is into fashion. She actually had the lightest suitcase. She knew how to mix and match her clothes and purchased toiletries wisely. Honestly, she looked cute every day we were gone. We brought clothes that dried fast. Used packing cubes and put dirty clothes in Ziploc bags and pushed the air out. There are travel walking poles that collapse and I would guess have a better means of protecting the sharper parts from damaging luggage. Airlines all have different weights and dimension requirements. They seem to be downsizing and becoming more restrictive every day. The only time I use a large case is when I travel with family and am staying in just one place and need it for specific items (snorkel fins, ski boots, ski clothes etc. in part because my husband wears size 15 shoes and thus pretty unlikely to find rentals for him) You may already know all this and I sincerely hope I haven't offended you. I just wouldn't invest in a large case.

Hi Gerry. I note your desire for larger case is to accommodate your hiking poles.
As others have mentioned, with the frequent shrinking luggage allowances, I would be investing in smaller poles (as well as smaller luggage), but you need to make your own decisions on that.
Few brands have been suggested. You might want to spend some time comparing makes and models on the eBags website. They carry a lot of options with reviews.

Keep in mind, that if narrowing search to 'lightweight' read the actual specs, because some of these are still really heavy.
Travelpro has a good reputation. IT has been mentioned.

Also do a search here on other discussions of lightweight luggage brands and see if the larger sizes work for you.
Good luck.

As others have noted, there’s a wide variety of collapsible poles. These are more adjustable than the older style poles. They adjust easily for the changes needed uphill Vs downhill. I suspect that these would be cheaper than a new large bag.

Don’t forget that you can also store the poles diagonally in the bag (criss cross) to get an extra inch or two of storage space.

Also one comment. The length of your trip has nothing to do with the size of your bag. People travel for months at a time with a carry on bag or smaller. I’m not sure what kind of “stuff” you are bringing. But is it truly necessary?

very light weight (around 8 lbs)

LMAO. 8# = very light weight. Made my day.

Amazon sells hiking poles that collapse to only 17" long. You could put those in a carry-on.

These poles are even shorter.

Here’s the whole list of collapsible poles at REI.

Not sure what the joke is Lee? 8 lbs is a light suitcase, right?

Not sure what the joke is Lee? 8 lbs is a light suitcase, right?

It depends on perspective I guess. My large carry on bag weighs 2 lb, my rolling backpack is 5 lb. My personal item is 14 oz.

8 lb might be light for a big 29 in roller bag but it’s not light compared to other bags.

Don't know about Lee, but 8 pounds is not light to me. I've never owned any luggage that heavy in my adult life and I'm 73! A 6 pound bag seems heavy to me. And if my knees were better, I'd be using a backpack that weighs less than 3.

Gerry, you have to understad that most people here travel with carry on only and 8 pounds for an empty bag is heavy. For the non -wheeled folks, more than 2 lbs is heavy.

Hi again Gerry,

In another post, I suggested some type bags you could look into. I think I suggested Kipling duffels, but unless you get them on a deep sale and with a coupon, they can run on the expensive side. (I look for sales, coupons and free delivery or pick up in local store) lol. > More euros for Rome! ;)

But, I also thought about this:

https://www.walmart.com/search/?query=30%20inch%20rolling%20duffle%20bag

The bags are rather sturdy, fairly lightweight (about 5-6 lbs) depending on pockets, etc. on bag.

Maybe this is another option if you want to take your original hiking poles in a larger/longer bag that is not too expensive and sort of lightweight compared to your 8-lb bag. (8-lb starting off empty is rather heavy, but, you do have a 29" - so, it is almost "relative.")

Some larger Walmart Supercenters have a decent "travel department" - some stock a lot of the rolling duffles - and usually stock it well around the summer for travel and kids going off to college. I cannot speak on the durability of the Walmart duffles (when thrown about by the baggage handlers.) I realize your inquiry was for a spinner, but, if you're checking it, it is not too bad.

Or check out TJMaxx - maybe bring your poles with you to try out.

I was laughing because I don't think "very light weight" and "8 lb" belong in the same sentence. I thought my 1 lb 13 oz OPEC bags was light, but I didn't even include "very". Eight pounds is NOT even light, let alone "very light". I currently use an eTech Weekender Jr convertible at about 2½ lb. Packed for three weeks it weighs less than 12 lb.

Look for the shortest poles. Or maybe just check the poles as "sports equipment". Or arrange to buy or rent them over there. But finding the biggest bag just for hiking poles? No way.

I am looking for a very light weight (around 8 lbs hopefully) suitcase. Think there are 29 inch spinners out there?

8 lbs for the 29" size OP is looking for is, 'very light weight'

After doing a quick search of 4 or 5 bags, this is the lightest I found, at 8.5 lbs--- https://www.ebags.com/product/american-tourister/technum-28-expandable-hardside-checked-spinner-luggage/352124?productid=10606828#productFeatures

I agree with the line of thought to get folding walking sticks and using a smaller bag.

However, if OP is determined to have a large bag, it does appear the desire for the size and weight mentioned can be achieved with some determined searching.

The international air carriers that I have flown typically use the 62 linear inch/158 linear cm size rule where the linear is the sum of maximum lenght - width - depath. The critical dimensions for packing trakking poles is the diagonal dimension in that you can pack a pole slightly longer than the bag's maximum interior length (ie. the bag's interior diagonal lenght).

Note that airline rules are the bag's out-to-out EXTERIOR measurements while your functionality is the bag's INTERIOR diemensions. Most spinners that I've observed tend to have wheels that project beyond the bag resulting in exterior length > than interior length. Note that two-wheel bags using roller blade type wheels tend to project into the bag taking up less total length than spnnner wheels.

The question of suitable trekking poles would be answered by your use and preferences. I prefer to be able to adjust trekking pole length to suit the track's grade and direcetion. I like to shorten poles for steep uphill walking and lengthen them for descending steep tracks. The three-piece Zee poles seem to be a fixed length. If you can live with a fixed length you can get by with a smaller bag. As a suggestion, if you use a trekking pole sections that separate (I have Black Diamond poles with Flick-lock connectors), separating the sections reduces the maximum length to less than just collapsing the poles.

PS If you don't remember your algebra, here's a web tool for caclunating diagonals of rectangles (and more):
https://www.omnicalculator.com/math/diagonal-of-rectangle

Edgar - the Black Diamond poles I referred to collapse and are adjustable. They’re not cheap but they are of Black Diamond quality.

For those that don’t know - BD is a good mountaineering brand. It’s great stuff.

I should add that you may also use the special or sporting equipment exception on size. You should check your specific air carrier for their special baggage rules. My skis are 205 cm, way in excess of the 158 lin cm rule but are allowed as sporting equipment. Note that you may have to pre-notifiy the air carrier of you intent to transport special baggage.

Some examples:
KLM
https://www.klm.com/travel/us_en/prepare_for_travel/baggage/exceptional_baggage/index.htm#p11
You can bring other types of sports equipment if it meets the following requirements:
L + W + H max. 300 cm (118 inch)
Max. 23 kg (50,5 lbs) in Economy Class

SAS
https://www.flysas.com/us-en/travel-info/baggage/special-baggage/
You can bring most types of special baggage (such as skis, golf bags, bikes) as part of the checked baggage included in your ticket at no extra cost, as long as it fits within the limit for the checked baggage included in your ticket.

Lufthansa
https://www.lufthansa.com/us/en/sports-baggage
You can conveniently take your sports baggage with you on Lufthansa flights.
Our allocation for sports equipment is limited. We therefore recommend making a reservation early for your desired item(s) of sports baggage either at your travel agency or through the Lufthansa Service Centre.
Sports baggage can be counted as your free baggage as long as the number of items and the weight do not exceed the free baggage allowance stipulated for your travel class.

Greetings,
Hiking poles are usually prohibited in a carry on bag. In my experience, folding hiking poles had to be checked. I have found it easier to buy them at my destination and donate them when I'm done. elisa

I have found it easier to buy them at my destination and donate them when I'm done. elisa

That’s really expensive! I just rented mine at my destination. It’s usually around $25 for 4-5 days.

Neither do I think 29" spinner belongs in the sentence with "very light weight". Eight pounds might be very light weight for a 29" spinner, but a 29" spinner is NOT "very light weight" for a piece of luggage.

That was never the question!

Thanks everyone for the helpful comments.

Hello All:
Again just want to say thanks for the tips and comments. I love Rick Steves's forums!
At the moment I travel with one large bag - I keep it under 50 lbs. My carry-on is only the skinny Rick Steves Day Bag (Pack?) with almost nothing in it. I find it easy to maneuver this way and there is no stress on my back - back issues ...
I now see that this is unusual and many of you just use carry-on bags. Fair play to you but I cannot see that happening with me anytime soon.
You gave me lots of things to think about for the future. Going to take my measuring stick and go shopping. Happy travels.

Gerry

I've found that hiking poles are being used more and more as medical devices, like a cane. I've taken them twice inside a carry-on bag. BUT, I also carry a note from the doctor in case I should be questioned. And I consulted a TSA person on the ground about this issue to be sure before I took mine last year.

I do own a cane, but using 2 poles, especially considering the different way they are held compared to a cane, makes for much more stability. Of course, the tips of mine are covered with rubber feet that are easily seen on x-ray. My understanding is that it's the pointy tip that's a safety concern.

We'll see what the screeners do on my next flights. It's always up for interpretation.

Good luck Lo.

"My old one is 28 inches (thought it was 26 for some reason). BTW do they measure down to the wheels on the bag? I assume not."

Your assumption is probably incorrect. The baggage companies do NOT measure down to the wheels, most airlines (especially those flying in the US) do!

The handle as well as the wheels is part of the bag, and any airline that chooses to measure your luggage is highly likely to include both in its measurement.

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