Airline Baggage Weight & Fee Calculator

Airline Baggage Guide

What do I need to know about Budget Airline Baggage Rules?

Budget airlines have complex and frequently changing baggage policies designed to maximise ancillary revenue. Ryanair: cabin bag (40×20×25cm) free, priority boarding cabin bag (55×40×20cm) with purchase of Priority, checked bag 10kg from £8, 20kg from £12 (pre-booked, varies by route). Wizz Air: similar structure. easyJet: one personal item free (45×36×20cm), cabin bag (56×45×25cm) with Flexi or Upfront, 15kg checked from £15, 23kg from £20. The key principle: always buy bags at the time of booking or online in advance, since airport check-in bag fees are dramatically higher than pre-booking, sometimes double or more.

How to Avoid Excess Baggage Fees?

Weigh your bag at home before leaving — bathroom scales plus weighing yourself with and without the bag gives a reasonable estimate. Luggage scales (£8-15) give precise weight. Pack heavy items in your carry-on rather than checked luggage. Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket. Ship items ahead via courier services for longer trips — often cheaper than excess baggage for stays over 2 weeks. For multiple-destination trips: check that your luggage meets the most restrictive airline on your itinerary

What should I know about Cabin Bag Measurements Guide?

Cabin bag rules vary significantly and are actively enforced on budget routes with high load factors. Most airlines measure bags at the gate — an overfull bag that does not fit the sizer is charged the checked bag rate at the gate, typically 5-10× the pre-booked price. Common cabin bag sizes: standard personal item (40×30×15 to 45×36×20cm). Standard cabin bag (55×40×20 to 56×45×25cm). Always check the specific airline before travel — these dimensions change and differ between airlines. Semi-rigid cases hold their shape better at the gate size-checker than soft bags, which can sometimes squeeze through even when technically oversized.

What do I need to know about Checked Baggage Locks and Security?

Checked baggage is subject to security screening and can be opened by security staff in any country. Use TSA-approved combination locks (identifiable by a red diamond logo) — security in the USA, UK, and most major airports can open and relock these without damaging them. For other destinations, consider not locking checked bags or use a zip tie that can be easily cut (you will see if it has been opened). Never pack valuables, medication, or essential items in checked luggage — bags are delayed,