First of all, let me say that this luggage information is as fresh as can be, and the requirements haven’t really been changed. I am checking them from time to time and update this article accordingly!
So, can you carry luggage to Business class? I will include only the most popular US airlines, seeing that my main audience is from the United States. Their requirements are fairly similar, but some airlines do have key differences you should be aware of.
Let’s start with:
Different Airline Policies for Carrying Luggage to Business Class
Here is the most popular one:
AMERICAN AIRLINES policy for carrying luggage
There aren’t any differences between ‘Business’ and other classes in terms of carry-on luggage. But Business class does get you 2 free checked bags, which is nice. That means you can leave your carry-on with the passenger baggage train, with no extra cost.
But if you do want to take your luggage with you to Business class, you have to comply with the carry-on size requirements.
These are American Airlines’ requirements:
Max size for carry-on luggage: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
Max size for the additional item (bag, laptop, ie.): 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
Allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
If you have a Business class clearance (or AAdvantage® status member), make sure to also look for ‘Priority’ signs at the check-ins. That allows you to board your plane faster. Ain’t nobody got time to wait.
SOUTHWEST policy for carrying luggage
Southwest airline is another popular one.
Here, Southwest’s requirements for dimensions are the following:
Max size for carry-on luggage: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm)
Max size for the additional item: Unknown
Max weight for checked baggage: 50 pounds
More information at the official site.
With Southwest, the size allowance is just slightly different from AA, but no big difference. You will get to board first, you get 2 free bags (meaning no checked luggage fees), and much more.
DELTA AIRLINE policy for carrying luggage
Here are the requirements:
Max size for carry-on luggage: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm)
Max size for the additional item: Width and height measurements may not exceed 22” x 14” x 9” (56 cm x 35 cm x 23 cm) respectively.
Max weight for checked baggage: No maximum weight applies to carry-on baggage, except in the following locations: Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai.
There is nothing exceptional with them in terms of policy requirements. The only thing noteworthy is that the combined length of baggage must not exceed 45 linear inches.
UNITED AIRLINE policy for carrying luggage
Max size for carry-on luggage: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm)
Max size for the additional item: Width and height measurements may not exceed 17” x 10” x 9” (43 cm x 25 cm x 22 cm) respectively.
Do be aware though, that some of their regional airlines use smaller aircraft. That results in smaller cabins, which in turn mean that there is no room for carry-on baggage.
Some of the examples are:
- Air Wisconsin
- CommutAir
JETBLUE policy for carrying luggage
Max size for carry-on luggage: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm)
Max size for the additional item: Width and height measurements may not exceed 17” x 10” x 9” (43 cm x 25 cm x 22 cm) respectively.
No weight restriction for carry-on bags.
With Jetblue, there is no business class. But there is something called ‘Mosaic customer’ that is similar to one. That you can get by earning enough points, traveling to/from London, being an active U.S military, and if you are a minor that is unaccompanied.
FINNAIR policy for carrying luggage
Max size for carry-on luggage: 22 x 16 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm)
Max weight for additional item is 10kg.
With Finnair, you do get more benefits from being in business class than usual.
On the luggage side, there is a nice allowance of 2 carry-on baggages. Plus, the max weight is increased to 10kg. Economy and premium class can carry 1 luggage only, same dimensions, and the same 1 item. The weight, however, is 8kg max.
You can also take necessary mobility aid such as cane or elbow crutches. Musical instruments can be taken only if their max size doesn’t exceed normal carry-on luggage.
With liquids, you are allowed to bring a maximum of 100ml of any of the allowed liquids.
Travel hacks for flying
If you are flying with Business class all the time, most tips don’t concern you as they are made with saving money in mind.
However, if you are still interested, then definitely make use of Google Flights.
Many are aware of it but don’t know how to fully utilize it. I can find a plane from one end of Europe to another for just 35 euros.
For that, go to Google Explore (sub-item of Google Flights) and then make sure that you have “Economy” checked, as well as “Flexible dates”.
For example, I am currently in Tallinn, and I can fly to Paris for €34 (38 dollars).
It’s a really neat way to find cheap prices if you are not sure where you want to travel with your beloved luggage.
Plus, it’s free!
Should you wish to get more personalized deals, I’d suggest trying out Scott’s Cheap Flights. They are really good a finding you deals, no matter if you want Economy, First, or Business class.
For more travel hacks for cheap flights, check out this article!
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