Oversized baggage refers to baggage that exceeds the maximum dimensions set by a transport provider, including checked and hand luggage for air, bus, train, and ship travel. Airlines and other carriers have different policies and fees for oversized baggage, which may vary by geography and specific flights. Baggage size restrictions are based on the dimensions of the aircraft or equipment, and external dimensions are determined by measuring length, width, and depth. Passengers can check if their bags fit within required size using displays provided by airports and train depots.
Oversized baggage is baggage that does not fall within the maximum dimensions set by a transport provider. The term most often refers to checked baggage for air travel, but can also apply to hand luggage for air travel and baggage carried by bus, train or ship. Some transport providers strictly prohibit passengers from carrying oversized bags, while others will allow it for an additional fee.
At one time, baggage size restrictions were nearly universal, at least for air travel. Over time, it has become less so. While there are common standards, each airline sets its own policies on what constitutes oversized baggage and sets policies and fees related to customers’ ability to check or carry such bags.
Airlines may also have different restrictions based on geography and specific flights. The maximum dimensions allowed and oversized baggage fees may be different in one country than in another. Such bags may be banned altogether on some flights and simply incur an extra charge on others.
In air travel, the maximum dimensions allowed on bags are generally determined by the dimensions of the aircraft. This is especially true for carry-on baggage, as overhead bin sizes can vary greatly by aircraft model. In some cases, restrictions may also be based on local policies and government restrictions.
Baggage size restrictions also vary significantly for land and sea carriers, such as trains and cruise ships. As with airlines, these companies typically base restrictions on the size of equipment passengers travel in. Like airlines, these companies may not allow oversized bags or charge a bag fee.
The “oversize” designation typically refers to the actual external dimension of the bag rather than its weight. Baggage weighing more than the maximum permitted weight is usually designated as “overweight”. External dimensions are often determined by measuring the length, width and depth of the bag and adding these three numbers together. Vectors could also stipulate that no side is longer than a specified length.
Airports and train depots often provide displays that contain a frame or box into which carry-on bags must be placed in order to be admitted. This gives passengers an easy way to see if their items are within the required size. Baggage that does not fit usually needs to be checked. While baggage typically refers to suitcases, trunks and other travel-specific bags, cases or equipment, they may be considered “baggage” and may be subject to size restrictions. This includes musical equipment, strollers, wheelchairs, and anything else that’s being checked or carried.
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