What does “80 Linear Inches” Mean in Terms of Luggage Carry-On Requirements?

Traveling is always an adventure but it often brings a few challenges with it. One term that most travelers get confused about is “80 linear inches” when it comes to choosing new check-in luggage. Like, what does 80 linear inches mean for luggage? How does it affect your packing? And why should you care?

80 linear inches, is the maximum size limit for carry on bags for many airlines.

In this blog post on 80 linear inches, we’ll uncover the mystery behind 80 linear inches. You must understand this measurement because it can cause you to pay an extra fee for oversized luggage at the airport.

Stay with us; we’ll break down everything about 80 linear inches of luggage into easy-to-grasp pieces, helping you become a more informed and savvy traveler. So, let’s dive in.

What does 80 linear inches mean for luggage?

Understanding Linear Inches

Linear inches is a term used to describe the sum of the total dimensions of a suitcase. It’s basically calculated by adding the length, width, and depth of the bag or luggage.

For instance, if the length of a suitcase is 30 inches, the width is 20 inches and the depth is 10 inches, the total linear dimensions would be:

• 30 inches (length) + 20 inches (width) + 10 inches (depth) = 60 linear inches.

Understanding 80 Linear Inches

In the same way, if the total dimensions, including the length, width, and depth of your luggage, are 80 inches, it’s considered to be 80 linear inches of luggage. There can be various variations in the length, width, and depth of a bag, but the total of them should not exceed 80 linear inches.

For instance, if your luggage measures 28 inches in length, 30 inches in width, and 22 inches in depth, then the linear dimensions would be:

• 28 inches (length) + 30 inches (width) + 22 inches (depth) = 80 linear inches.

Note: Important thing is that your luggage should not exceed the limit set by the airline you’re planning to fly with.

Also Read: Samsonite Omni PC vs. Omni 2

Understanding Airline Size Restrictions for Checked Luggage: 62 or 80 Linear Inches

You might also have heard about the 62 linear inches rule and may get confused between the two rules. Let’s get it sorted.

We’re discussing the 80-linear-inch rule of airlines but let us tell you, it’s not the most popular size imposed by airlines. Instead, the most popular size for checked luggage is 62 linear inches.

More than 90% of the total airlines follow 62 linear inches for checked luggage but still, there are a few airlines that allow bags or suitcases even more than 62 linear inches. These airlines include Aeroflot, Allegiant Air, ANA (All Nippon Airways), British Airways, Etihad Airways and many more.

Summing up, if your airline allows a maximum of 62 linear inches of luggage, the sum of the length, width, and depth of your luggage must be less than or equal to 62 inches, but if your airline allows up to 80 linear inches, the total dimensions of your luggage must be less than or equal to 80 inches.

If your luggage ends up exceeding the set limit of your airline, you might have to pay a hefty fee for oversized luggage.

Also read: Carry on vs Checked Luggage: Which One You Should Choose?

Why do these limits matter so much?

There are multiple reasons why linear inches limits matter a lot. We’re discussing some of the important reasons why airlines are so concerned about imposing linear inches.

Maximizing Cargo Space

One of the main reasons why airlines apply the 80 or 62 linear inches rule is because of the limited space in the plane cargo. Each airplane has a limited amount of space in the cargo hold and it needs to be utilized efficiently so that no space is left unnecessarily.

Oversized luggage can consume more space and keeping suitcases within the 80 linear inches limit, helps airlines optimize cargo space, allowing them to transport more passengers’ belongings and additional cargo.

Maintaining Aircraft Balance and Safety

Proper luggage size is essential for maintaining the aircraft’s weight distribution and balance. Airlines meticulously calculate the weight and balance of the aircraft so that they can ensure safe flight operations.

Oversize luggage can disrupt these calculations, potentially leading to safety risks. By sticking to the 80 linear-inch limit, we all contribute to the overall safety of the flight, as well-sized bags facilitate accurate weight distribution and stability.

Easier Handling and Transportation

Well-sized bags or suitcases that adhere to the 80 linear-inch limits are easier for baggage handlers to handle. Oversize suitcases or bags can be cumbersome, leading to delays in the loading and unloading process.

Properly sized luggage also helps reduce the risk of potential damage to your belongings, as airport handling systems and personnel are better equipped to deal with standard-size suitcases or bags.

Compatibility with Airline Policies and Avoiding Extra Fees

Airline policies on luggage size can vary but the 80 linear inches limit is commonly referred to for oversized luggage. The standard size for checked luggage is 62 linear inches. However, there are a few airlines that allow checked luggage to be even bigger than 62 linear inches.

Airlines often charge a hefty fee for oversized luggage. So staying within the airline guidelines is crucial. If your airlines allow 80 linear inches of luggage, don’t bring luggage or bags that exceed 80 linear inches; otherwise, you might have to pay additional charges that typically range from $75 to $200 per bag or piece of luggage.

Also read: Carry on vs Personal Item: What Should You Choose?

Tips on packing with 80 linear inches of luggage?

There are plenty of tips for packing your 80 linear-inch suitcase bag efficiently but below, we’re covering some of the most important tips that you must consider while packing your 80 linear-inch luggage.

1. Prioritize Essential Items

The first thing that you must do is make a list of items that you want to bring with you. You must prioritize only essential items in order to stay light. Prioritizing essential items helps you avoid overpacking and keep your luggage within size and weight limits.

Keep the list with you, it’ll work like a checklist and while getting back to your home, with the help of the list, ensure that you don’t forget anything.

2. Use Packing Cubes

Using packing cubes for organizing clothes and other items is a great way to maximize your luggage space. They help you compartmentalize your items and make it easier for you to find what you need, even without unpacking everything.

3. Roll Your Clothes

Another thing that you should keep in mind is rolling clothes instead of folding them. This method not only helps you save space but also keeps your clothes wrinkle-free. Ultimately, you’ll be able to fit more items into your suitcase.

5. Consider Multi-Purpose Items

Pick those clothes and items that fulfill multiple purposes. Choosing versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits for different occasions. In this way, you can avoid packing too much, even without losing the number of outfits.

6. Consider Weight Restrictions

In addition to size limits, airlines also impose weight restrictions on checked luggage. So make sure that your packed suitcase doesn’t exceed the airline’s weight restrictions. To weigh your luggage, you can use a luggage scale before you leave for your airport.

Also check out: What Size Luggage for a 1-Week Trip?

Conclusion

Summing up, 80 linear inches means the sum of the length, width, and depth of your luggage. Different airlines have different size restrictions for checked luggage but the most popular checked luggage size is 62 linear inches.

Most airlines follow the 62 linear inches rule for checked luggage but there are a few airlines that allow more than 62 linear. What is more important is that your luggage should not exceed the permissible size limit set by the airline you’re flying with.

We hope this guide helped you, but if you still have any questions, let us know, and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.

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