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Traveling to the United States or any other international destination requires paying special attention to baggage policies. One of the most common situations in airports occurs when a suitcase exceeds the weight or dimensions authorized by the airline, which can lead to additional charges, delays during check-in, and even the refusal to transport the luggage.
Below, we explain what happens when your luggage exceeds the permitted limits and what the most important rules are for airlines such as Aeroméxico, Delta Air Lines, Viva Aerobus, Volaris, and American Airlines.
What happens if your suitcase weighs more than allowed?
When a suitcase exceeds the weight established in your fare, the airline usually applies an excess baggage fee. The amount varies depending on the company, the route, and the level of overweight. In some cases, if the suitcase exceeds the maximum limit allowed, it might not be accepted for travel.
Airlines recommend verifying the weight before leaving home to avoid unexpected costs at the check-in counter.
What happens if the suitcase is too large?
In addition to weight, airlines establish maximum dimensions for checked baggage. Normally, the size is calculated by adding the length, width, and height of the suitcase, including wheels and handles. If the piece exceeds those measurements, it may be considered oversized luggage and incur additional charges.
In some cases, when the luggage significantly exceeds the limits, the airline may require it to be sent as cargo.
What you should know before arriving at the airport
The Mexico City International Airport recommends that travelers check their airline's baggage policies in advance and review the restrictions applicable to carry-on and checked luggage to expedite inspection and documentation processes.
For its part, the Transportation Security Administration clarifies that size and weight limits for suitcases are set by each airline, while the agency is responsible for security standards and permitted or prohibited items during inspection screenings.
Baggage limits for major airlines
Aeroméxico
On most of its routes, Aeroméxico allows checked baggage with maximum dimensions of 158 linear centimeters (length + width + height). Depending on the fare, passengers can check pieces of up to 25 kilograms in economy class or up to 32 kilograms on some Premier fares. If those limits are exceeded, excess baggage fees apply.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines establishes a standard checked bag as one piece weighing up to 23 kilograms and measuring up to 157 linear centimeters. The company indicates that passengers may face separate fees for overweight, oversized, and extra baggage, so a single suitcase can accumulate multiple charges if it fails to meet more than one restriction.
Viva Aerobus
Viva Aerobus allows checked baggage of up to 15 or 25 kilograms depending on the package purchased. Dimensions must not exceed 158 linear centimeters. Passengers can purchase extra kilograms, but no piece can exceed 32 kilograms. If the suitcase exceeds the contracted weight or its dimensions, an additional fee will be charged.
Volaris
At Volaris, checked suitcases included in fares can be up to 15 or 25 kilograms and must not exceed 158 linear centimeters. The airline warns that any excess weight or size generates extra charges.
American Airlines
American Airlines sets a standard limit of 23 kilograms and 158 linear centimeters for checked baggage on most of its routes. The company also notes that overweight or oversized suitcases are subject to special rates, while those exceeding certain maximum limits may not be accepted.
Tips to avoid excess baggage fees
Weigh your suitcase before leaving for the airport.
Check the dimensions including wheels, pockets, and handles.
Check the specific conditions of your fare, as included baggage may vary.
Purchase additional baggage online before the flight, as it is usually cheaper than doing so at the airport.
Check if your luggage meets the weight and size limits established for your route.
If your luggage exceeds the weight or dimensions allowed by the airline, it is most likely that you will have to pay an additional fee.
Depending on the level of excess, some companies could also apply cumulative charges for weight, size, and number of pieces, or even refuse to transport the suitcase.
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