I am going to Spain for 4 months so need to take lots. the airline says I can carry on bag that is 45 linear inches (115 cm), and can check a bag that is 62 linear inches or 50 pounds. So how does that translate to actual luggage size? I have a RickSteve carry on bag that I think is considered 21"? Also, what have others done for a long trip? I appreciate any tips.
Stephanie
Posted by
Marin, CA
532 posts
A carry on's combined length plus height plus width must not exceed 45 inches. Also with some airlines the length can't exceed 21 inches. If you will be having a semi permanent address and with the weather changing you will probably want to check a bag as well.
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
I believe the measurement is the total of each dimension: height, length and depth. You can always check more bags, but they will charge you for that. Not knowing why you are going, but if for tourist travel, there is no need to take any more luggage than if you were going for two weeks. You just do laundry every few days. If you are going for tourist travel, be aware that 4 months exceeds the Schengen visa and you may be fined and immediately sent home for overstaying or even denied entry.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
You might explain a bit better your travel plans. We take the same amount of clothes whether it is 4 days, 4 weeks or 4 months. You wear the same stuff a lot and go to the laundry weekly. The 21" bags probably something like 21, 12, 10. If this is a study abroad program you would take even less.
Posted by
Whittington
984 posts
You did not ask but, and as pointed out, I hope you understand Schengen.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15791 posts
4 months is likely to mean clothes for both warm and cold weather. Using vacuum bags helps fit more into a bag, especially the bulkier winter items, socks, and such. If you are going to be in very cold weather, thermals are good. You can wash them out and they dry overnight, so you don't need a lot. Also think in terms of layered clothing. So when it gets warmer as the sun heats things up, or when you go inside, you can easily take off a layer or more. If you need any special medications, eyewear, etc., be sure to take enough and then some. Read the airline carry-on policy carefully. Many allow "extra" items in addition to your bag - camera, computer, handbag, reading matter . . . But also check your departure airport - SFO used to have a one-bag only policy to go through security. Are you going to be based in one place or traveling the whole time? If the former, you may want to spend the extra money for a second checked bag. If the latter, you may want to take even less than the limit, rather than lug all that stuff around with you for 4 months. Sounds like a great trip is ahead of you. Enjoy!