50-lb. Baggage Limit??

[Marialivia]

On surfing these boards earlier today, I noted a mention of a 50-lb. limit on baggage. Why haven't I heard of this before? (Maybe I have heard it but repressed it -- possible!) On previous trips I've had to pack both light- and heavier-weight clothes because of itineraries and time of year. I'll be visiting the Baltic countries next month and am told that I need to be prepared for weather that is MUCH cooler in June than it is here, but that there's an occasional "hot" day in the 80s. I'm trying valiantly to pack things that can be layered, but I'm still fearful it will be more than 50 lbs. (I'm planning to weigh my empty suitcase as soon as I sign off from here!) Thanks for your help. ML:D

[jhannah]

Yes, most airlines have 50-pound weight limits for their luggage. Even international flights have had the limit lowered from 70 to 50. This was done rather quietly, but most have issued announcements. I'd suggest you visit the website of your airline to confirm their limits. There are some exceptions to this lower limit, but they are few.

Remember that each person may check two pieces of luggage. While it's more of a hassle to have more pieces, that may be your only alternative.

Good luck.

[pcbeck]

Check your particular airlines for the details on international flights. It seems that most airlines have made the reduction in weight so don't be caught paying a surcharge at the terminal or repacking in front of everone just to even out the load.

[vikielynne]

I know, this one was new to me. I just received my documents for June on NCL when I saw it. I completely understand it but it is quite the pain in the rump as I'm flying BA & they still allow the bags up to 70 pounds so I am having to take 2 pieces now.

[sarahjane]

If it's worth it to you to just bring one bag, you can always go ahead and opt to pay the extra charge for your overweight bag. I'm pretty sure it's $25.00. You might want to check on that to be sure. Last time we were flying, I saw a person who was paying the "fat bag fee" :D . (No, it wasn't me!!)
Some people would rather pay extra than lug 2 bags.

happy tuesday to all!

sarahjane

[RustaRoo]

Yes, my bags were weighed (more than 50 pounds) departing from Fort Launderdale, after my cruise, and there was a surcharge fee applied - US$25. Funny, there was no problem departing from Canada and I know I didn't buy that much:D

[Grumpy1]

The limits and overweight fees vary by airline and flight class. We are flying continental in June and get 2 50lb bags each in coach class. First class gets 2 70lb bags. The surcharge in coach for bags over 50lb but less than 70lb is $25. The combined length +width+height cannot exceed 64 inches. 28inch suitcases are pretty safe. Most 30 inch cases are pushing the limit. Check your airline's website and search for baggage limits to see what applies to you.

[RedmondCruiser]

I believe that Jet Blue is the only domestic that still has 70 lbs as their limit. American allows 70lbs to Puerto Rico. Flying first class American always seemed to overlook an overage but last month the overage limit for first class was three pounds, else the $25 sur charge. With the way my wife packs we now carry 4 pieces of checked luggage - My wife would take a steamer trunk if allowed and the 70lb bags were breaking my back. Now I fear that they will go to 40lbs and then I'm in real trouble, since my wife will declare that she has nothing to wear.

[krewzin]

Yes, my bags were weighed (more than 50 pounds) departing from Fort Launderdale, after my cruise, and there was a surcharge fee applied - US$25. Funny, there was no problem departing from Canada and I know I didn't buy that much

It was from all the great food on the cruise...even your clothes gained weight. :D


The limits and overweight fees vary by airline and flight class. We are flying continental in June and get 2 50lb bags each in coach class. First class gets 2 70lb bags. The surcharge in coach for bags over 50lb but less than 70lb is $25.

We're flying coach to Vancouver...and first class back (gotta love those FF points). I guess I'll have to pack carefully one way.....

[arzz]

I echo the previous posters -- check specifically with your airline. The limits and the overage fees differ from line to line and also differ from domestic travel to international travel, as well as from coach to first class.

[michmike]

the magellan catalog (www.magellan.com) has a handy travel scale that wife purchased before our last cruise for less than $20. Basically a handle with a scale dial hanging from that and then a hook that you slip thru your suitcase handle and then lift the whole thing. Pretty accurate.

We would stand on the scale at home previously and then have the other hand us a suitcase, but this is so much easier and there were no scales in the rooms onboard so always guessing on the way home..This packs right in the suitcase and goes with us.

[Marialivia]

Thanks Everyone. I did check SAS airlines, and for "Economy Class" (I guess that's me because I'm not going first-class), the weight limit is 50 lbs. To those of you who have suggested two bags: Do you mean that one person could take two bags with a combined weight of 100 lbs.? Interesting, but I don't plan to do this (I can also bring "cabin baggage," which I assume to mean a carry-on, weighing 18 lbs. or less). Oh my poor arms! I attempted to weigh my empty suitcase, and it seems to be in the vicinity of 10 lbs. Does this sound right? The scale itself is accurate. I first weighed the suitcase as best I could, and then I got on the scale myself holding the suitcase; in both instances, it showed 10 lbs. This means I can bring 40 lbs. of clothing? If I end up paying a $25 surcharge, asi es la vida -- I'm on vacation! thanks so much. ML:confused:

[Randyk47]

The 50 pounds is per bag, not for the total, so you can bring 100 pounds of those things you absolutely need to have and that's assuming you're limited to 2 checked bags. For instance, Southwest Airlines still allows 3 checked bags per person with the 50 pound limit so that's 150 pounds!!! Our biggest adventure was two years ago when we were able to drive to Galveston, Texas for a 12-day cruise. Wife realized there was no limit......and she took it to heart. :eek: The way we check baggage at home now is that we load the bag and then I hold it while on the scale. We subtract my weight and get close enough that we've never been over....close but not over.

[twinkletoes4445]

We were surprised with the 50 pound weight limit (per bag) when we flew to Grand Cayman this year. In the past it was always 70 pounds. We flew Delta, so I am not sure if this is all airlines or just their restriction.

[as41shots]

Last summer we had 70 pounds in the large duffel, which held flippers, masks, vests and other snorkeling equipment, as well as other stuff. We also had 3 other bags which each weighed about 35 lbs. each. So I stood there in line, opened all the bags, and started transferring snorkels and towels and what not from one bag to the other. No way I was paying those airline people another nickel.

[Marialivia]

Good for you!! I have a bit of a back problem that I don't want to exacerbate, and I find the luggage hassle to be the ONLY negative aspect of a trip. I'm determined to take only 1 suitcase (I believe it is a 28-incher) plus a carry-on. On re-reading the SAS information, I'm now confused -- it just may be a 44-lb. limit. In any event, I'll get it straightened out tomorrow when we meet with the TA, get our documents, and pose our questions!! Thanks for all your enlightening replies! ML:confused:

[hmh]

We recently flew to Osaka, via Vancouver, BC, on Air Canada, for a Statendam cruise. The baggage limit for flights to China, Japan, Brazil, HK, and a couple other Far East points was 70# per bag--2 bags pp. !st class might have been 3. All this info was on the AC web site. 2 pcs. of carryon luggage was also allowed.

The large, wheeled suitcases, while being easy to manuver around, do weigh more, due to the wheeles. I usually fold a bag inside my suitcase, that could be checked, in case I "over-shop." My bag, going, was under 60 # and returning, I checked two, and carried breakables in a carryon. My husband's bag is always lighter, even with a tux, etc. in it. Although, this time he took his tux in a separate American Tourister folding garment bag, which was checkable, on the way home. hmh

[RevNeal]

The weight limit is annoying, and if one must go over one CAN by paying the overage charge of $25. Be CAREFUL to not have luggage that is too large ... for the fee for oversized luggage is MORE than for over-weight luggage.

When leaving from DFW I've never had an over-weight charge applied, but I have when leaving from Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando. Not from San Diego.

Here are American Airlines' Rules:

The size limitation of your luggage is calculated by adding the total outside dimensions of each bag, that is, length + width + height.
Two checked bags at 62 in/157 cm each
One carry-on bag at 45 in/114 cmThe maximum weight per checked bag is 50 lbs/23 kgs.
The maximum weight per carry-on bag is 40 lbs/18 kgs.

Excess, Oversize and Overweight Baggage and Fees We realize that at times it may be necessary to travel with an item that exceeds the size or weight limitations or is in excess of the free allowance. Additional charges apply to this type of baggage.

Baggage connecting to other airlines will also be subject to the connecting airline's excess charges and/or oversize, overweight charges in addition to American Airlines charges.

All charges are calculated on a one-way basis and are collected at the airport ticket counter.

The following information for excess baggage applies to flights within the United States and Puerto Rico. For excess baggage information for all other destinations, please contact an American Airlines representative.

Excess Baggage
Checked baggage in excess of the free baggage allowance will be charged as follows:
$80 per piece for the first three additional pieces
$105 per piece for the fourth, fifth, and sixth additional pieces
$180 per piece for the seventh and any additional piecesOverweight Baggage
For travel within the 50 United States and between the 50 United States and Canada, checked baggage weighing over 50 lbs/23 kgs but not more than 70 lbs/32 kgs will be charged at the rate of $25 per piece.
For travel within the 50 United States and between the 50 United States and Canada, checked baggage weighing over 70lbs/32 kgs but not more than 100 lbs/45 kgs will be charged at the rate of $50 per piece.
For tickets issued on and after March 1, 2005, for travel to all American Airlines destinations, (excluding international) checked baggage weighing over 50 lbs/23 kgs but not more than 70 lbs/32 kgs will be charged at the rate of $25 per piece. Any such bags will also be identified with a special tag to alert handlers.
For overweight baggage information for all other destinations, please contact an American Airlines representative.
These charges are in addition to any charge assessed for additional or oversized baggage.
Baggage weighing more than 100 lbs/45 kgs will not be accepted as checked baggage.Oversized Baggage
Checked baggage which is larger than American Airlines stated size limits will be charged at the rate of $80 per piece.
These charges are in addition to any charge assessed for additional or overweight baggage.
Baggage measuring more than 115 in/292 cm (total outside dimensions; length + width + height) will not be accepted as checked baggage.Oversized and Overweight Baggage
The charge for oversized baggage and the charge for overweight baggage will be added together.Hope this helps!

[Krazy Kruizers]

No matter where we cruise, I always take 4 bags - 2 per person. I have computer lists of what goes into each one so I already know my weight limit for each one.

If I were traveling alone, I don't think I would ever risk taking just one suitcase, especially overseas. What if your suitcase is lost?

[Marialivia]

Thanks everyone. I'm beginning to think it's more trouble than it's worth! (Not really.) I haven't measured the dimensions of my suitcase yet but plan to do so today -- I believe it is referred to as a 28-incher. My travel buddy's is larger, and this is of concern to me but all I can do is pass along the information. I did order a large duffle bag from LL Bean this morning which fits the dimensions specified by SAS Air and is large enough to pack emergency clothes as well as the other stuff usually stored in a carry-on.

I foolishly believed I had "thought of everything," but thanks to all you great folks on these boards, I've learned a few new vital things! Your help is much appreciated! ML:D

[LHC]

I purchased the duffle also for my cruise later in the year and a carry-on that weighs less than 5 lbs from TravelSmiths.com
Linda

[Marialivia]

Hi Again,

I just measured my suitcase, and the dimensions add up to 56 inches, including the wheels. As the SAS limit is 62 inches, I'm within "the zone." There is no question of my taking an additional suitcase, as my physical condition precludes this. Ditto for a suitcase without wheels. I believe I can deal with the 44-lb. weight limit somehow. I appreciate the suggestion regarding taking extra clothes, especially black slacks, in case my luggage gets lost. I don't expect this to happen, but then I suppose nobody does! ML:D

[Krazy Kruizers]

Years ago we were able to buy American Tourister carry-ons which weigh 2 1/2 pounds each, are on wheels, and can be used as a back pack. Unfortunately they no longer make them.

Better have your friend measure her suitcase for the total dimentions. And remind her that the suitcase has to be able to fit under the bed for storage.

[Marialivia]

Thanks. I am pleased with the description of the LLBean duffle bag -- they've never failed me, and the dimensions are within the specified limits. (But I also love my American Tourister luggage.) Yes, I have already sent the information to my friend and am hoping that she'll take two smaller suitcases, as the price for oversize is even more than that for overweight. I am so thankful I got onto these boards and this thread -- one less thing to provoke anxiety! ML

[ndgolden]

Looking forward to hear about your Gems of the Baltic cruise. Am planning on taking the same one next year. :D Let me know about the temperatures as I've heard the same about a vast range of highs and lows in the summertime.:eek:

[RevNeal]

I just measured my suitcase, and the dimensions add up to 56 inches, including the wheels. As the SAS limit is 62 inches, I'm within "the zone." There is no question of my taking an additional suitcase, as my physical condition precludes this.

Marialivia, if you have one bag with wheels on it (and you do) what is to preclude you from taking a second bag and hooking it onto your first bag, piggy-back? That is what I do. One can easily carry 2 bags piggy back on one large rolling bag. The only effort involved is hooking them together. Most bags comes with either hooks or clasps to enable piggy-backing them. If your don't, you can find straps at most luggage stores (or even at Wallmart!!!) that will enable you to piggy-back a second bag onto the one with wheels. Once Piggy-backed it's a simple matter to walk through the airport lines, check in. Then, unmate the bags and hand them, one at a time, to the checker. After the flight, get the bags off the claim and remate them. It's FAR easier than trying to lug two bags around.

[sarahjane]

Excellent suggestion, RevNeal!
Another possibility...you can also buy one of those small collapsible "dolly" type things with wheels if you have some luggage that doesn't have wheels. I've seen them at Walmart, and other places that carry travel items. You just strap your un-wheeled bags onto it and roll! Once you get your bags where you want them, just remove from the wheel-cart and tuck it away either inside that bag, or in your carry-on.
If you have some luggage you really like, but it does not have wheels, this is a good option.:)

happy wednesday to all!
4 days till Westerdam to Alaska!!!:eek:

sarahjane

[wrp96]

Marialivia, if you have one bag with wheels on it (and you do) what is to preclude you from taking a second bag and hooking it onto your first bag, piggy-back? That is what I do. One can easily carry 2 bags piggy back on one large rolling bag. The only effort involved is hooking them together. Most bags comes with either hooks or clasps to enable piggy-backing them. If your don't, you can find straps at most luggage stores (or even at Wallmart!!!) that will enable you to piggy-back a second bag onto the one with wheels. Once Piggy-backed it's a simple matter to walk through the airport lines, check in. Then, unmate the bags and hand them, one at a time, to the checker. After the flight, get the bags off the claim and remate them. It's FAR easier than trying to lug two bags around.

This is exactly what I do. I frequently cruise solo and take multiple bags. I just clip them together and off they go. Since all my bags together weigh less than one big bag would, it also makes it easier when I need to lift the bags onto beds or up stairs.

[Marialivia]

And once again, thank you all! If I were to take two suitcases, that's exactly what I'd do -- "piggy-back" them. However, I just returned from a headache-producing session with the TA, who informed us (and showed us the verifying policy info from SAS) that we are allowed a TOTAL of 44 lbs. each, not two bags weighing in at a combined weight of 88 or less. My problem I guess is that I have absolutely no concept of what 34 lbs. of clothing looks like! The TA suggested that we put the heavier things, such as shoes, into the carry-on, which we'll do. It seems senseless to me in a way, because the weight will still be on the plane, one way or the other. In any event, I'm prepared to pay the $25 if I do go over the allowance, but will endeavor not to do so.ML:D

[Grumpy1]

SAS seems to be more restrictive than most. I read the restrictions on their website and, for travel to/from the US, there seems to be a different set of rules, but it really isn't totally clear exactly what they are... it seems to say that you can have two pieces at 20kg (44lb) plus an 8 kg (17.6lb) carryon. If you are not flying to/from the US then the single bag limit would apply.


Your baggage
For international travel (except to/from the USA ) on SAS flights, the free baggage allowance in economy class is 20 kg, in business class it is 30 kg. One piece of hand luggage per passenger is allowed on board. Hand luggage must not exceed 55x40x23 cm, or weigh more than 8 kg. It can be stowed under the seat in front of you or in one of the overhead lockers. Please take care when opening the overhead lockers while the aircraft is moving or after landing.
http://www.scandinavian.net/Images/spacer.gif
On SAS flights to and from the USA , the free baggage allowance is based on a piece-baggage concept, depending on the point of origin or destination when the baggage is checked through. The piece-baggage concept is as follows: two pieces of baggage and one piece of hand luggage (see dimensions above).
http://www.scandinavian.net/Images/spacer.gif
Each piece of baggage should be clearly marked with your address - both inside and outside. Unmarked baggage will not be accepted.
http://www.scandinavian.net/Images/spacer.gif

[vikielynne]

Sorry to add any more worry but please verify with SAS that the excess baggage fee is only $25. I know that BA will not allow you to go over the weight allowance...you'll be one of those people trying to frantically repack you suitcase at the ticket counter....been there done that :-)

All airlines have very diffrent baggage policies depending on the route, the way the ticket was issued...USA-LON seperate ticket for LON - EUROPE etc & can be rather complicated.

It is better to be safe than sorry.

[flashdog_1]

When you use one of those new check your bags on the ship to the airline deals i wonder if they weigh bags, and if so, how they catch up with you to charge you if you are overweight.

If you are concerned about how much additional weight you have added to your suitcases while cruising, you can always roll the bag up to the gym where there is a scale!

[Marialivia]

Looking forward to hear about your Gems of the Baltic cruise. Am planning on taking the same one next year. :D Let me know about the temperatures as I've heard the same about a vast range of highs and lows in the summertime.:eek:

Yesterday I attended the informational meeting on our 6/12 cruise. The TA told us that the temperature in June would most likely be between 65 and 75 and that we should be sure to take a light jacket and sweater. ML

[RevNeal]

The following comes from the Scandinavian Airlines website:

Within the set allowance, the baggage you bring with you is carried free of charge. Baggage allowances are normally set by weight but a piece concept applies on some flights.
You will save time and trouble by removing any tags from previous flights and marking your bags inside and out with your name and destination address. You can pick up labels from your local SAS office, travel agents or at airport check-in counters.


Checked baggage
Checked baggage is all baggage for which a baggage identification tag is issued.

Weight concept
Weight Concept means that the passenger’s baggage is measured by the total weight.

Class of service Weight allowance

Business Class 30 kg / 66 lbs

Economy Extra
(Intercontinental routes) 30 kg / 66 lbs

Economy Flex/
Economy class 20 kg / 44 lbs

Infant - any class 10 kg / 22 lbs and a collapsible stroller


Weight regularities for certain destinations
For health and safety reasons authorities have imposed a maximum weight per piece of baggage allowed at some destinations. Baggage to, from or via such destinations must not weigh more than 32 kg/70 lbs per piece.
The destinations with weight limitations served by us are:
Moscow, and destinations in the United Kingdom.

If you have connecting flights to destinations served by other airlines, please check with your travel agent for possible additional restrictions. (E.g. Johannesburg, South Africa and destinations in Australia and New Zealand)


Piece concept
For flights to/from Canada, US, Mexico and Brazil the passenger’s baggage is measured by the number and the size of the baggage. With size we mean length + width + height.

Class of service Piece allowance Max weight/piece Max size/piece

Business class 2 32 kg / 70 lbs 158 cm / 62 in

Economy Extra 2 32 kg / 70 lbs 158 cm / 62 in

Economy class 2 23 kg / 50 lbs 158 cm / 62 in

Infant - any class 1 + 1 collapsible stroller 10 kg / 23 lbs 115 cm / 45 in

Source: http://www.scandinavian.net/EC/Appl/Home/FrontDoor/0,3479,LNG%253Den%2526SO%253D81A372776F54492A_981D 5578A42EC6F1%2526MKT%253DUS,00.html

From whence are you flying? If you're flying from the US or Canada, then according to the SAS website your allowance should be figured based upon the piece and not the total mass. In other words, you should be allowed 2 pieces at 50 lbs per piece.

Please ask your TA to re-check the guidelines.

[LHC]

Trust me I paid some excellent tips for an overweight pack last December and would do it again. If I had two 50 lb suitcases I would tip someone else to cart these through the major airports.
LHC

[Marialivia]

I am most appreciative of ALL these suggestions, and particularly so with RevNeal's and Grumpy's including information from SAS websites. Bottom Line: I am taking ONE suitcase weighing 44 lbs. and ONE carry-on with less than 18 lbs. I've already asked the TA to clarify, and saw with my own eyes the faxed reply from the SAS rep.

I'm nothing if not persistent, however, and in an effort to find my way through the morass of the SAS baggage info from its website, I went through it, crossed out what did not apply to me, and highlighted the things that do apply. Thanks Grumpy for noting the contradictions on the SAS site! These are my areas of frustration -- quoted passages are directly from the site:

1. “Your baggage is free of charge as long as it is kept within the agreed limits, which are based on the Weight Concept or the Piece Concept. The Weight Concept applies on all flights, EXCEPT THOSE TO AND FROM THE U.S., CANADA, AND MEXICO.”

COMMENT: As my deparature and return flights are direct FROM AND TO THE U.S., it seems that the above “exception” to the Weight Concept would refer to my baggage. (But I find it hard to believe that there is not a weight limit.)


2. “Passengers traveling in Economy Flex and Economy are entitled to 20 kg (44 lb.).”


COMMENT: Because of the “exception” noted above, I find this to be in contradiction with the “exception” noted in Paragraph 1. If, as I am inclined to believe, there IS a weight limit irrespective of Paragraph 1, then the 44 lbs. would seem to be the one for me. Note that it does not state “per piece.”


3. “For travel TO USA . . .the maximum permitted weight per piece . . .is 23 kg (50 lb).”


COMMENT: It seems that this would apply to my RETURN flight from Copenhagen to USA. (6 additional pounds?. Unusual).


4. “Passengers, irrespective of class, are allowed two pieces of checked baggage, and the overall size . . .”



COMMENT: I have no problem with this verbiage but still believe there MUST be a weight limit, regardless of the exception noted in the first paragraph.

(No problem understanding the limits stated for carry-ons.)


Just wanted to get this off my chest, especially if there are others taking SAS flights. ML:confused:

[Grumpy1]

I am most appreciative of ALL these suggestions, and particularly so with RevNeal's and Grumpy's including information from SAS websites. Bottom Line: I am taking ONE suitcase weighing 44 lbs. and ONE carry-on with less than 18 lbs. I've already asked the TA to clarify, and saw with my own eyes the faxed reply from the SAS rep.

I'm nothing if not persistent, however, and in an effort to find my way through the morass of the SAS baggage info from its website, I went through it, crossed out what did not apply to me, and highlighted the things that do apply. Thanks Grumpy for noting the contradictions on the SAS site! These are my areas of frustration -- quoted passages are directly from the site:

1. “Your baggage is free of charge as long as it is kept within the agreed limits, which are based on the Weight Concept or the Piece Concept. The Weight Concept applies on all flights, EXCEPT THOSE TO AND FROM THE U.S., CANADA, AND MEXICO.”

COMMENT: As my deparature and return flights are direct FROM AND TO THE U.S., it seems that the above “exception” to the Weight Concept would refer to my baggage. (But I find it hard to believe that there is not a weight limit.)


2. “Passengers traveling in Economy Flex and Economy are entitled to 20 kg (44 lb.).”


COMMENT: Because of the “exception” noted above, I find this to be in contradiction with the “exception” noted in Paragraph 1. If, as I am inclined to believe, there IS a weight limit irrespective of Paragraph 1, then the 44 lbs. would seem to be the one for me. Note that it does not state “per piece.”


3. “For travel TO USA . . .the maximum permitted weight per piece . . .is 23 kg (50 lb).”


COMMENT: It seems that this would apply to my RETURN flight from Copenhagen to USA. (6 additional pounds?. Unusual).


4. “Passengers, irrespective of class, are allowed two pieces of checked baggage, and the overall size . . .”



COMMENT: I have no problem with this verbiage but still believe there MUST be a weight limit, regardless of the exception noted in the first paragraph.

(No problem understanding the limits stated for carry-ons.)


Just wanted to get this off my chest, especially if there are others taking SAS flights. ML:confused: Sort of makes you wonder if part of the confusing language is a result of translation into english from a document originally written in another language. I can't believe anyone could write such a confusing document.

[RevNeal]

I'm utterly confused. SAS's website -- the page I cited -- indicates that flights to and from the USA, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil are to be governed by the "piece" concept. In other words, for economy flights to and from the USA one should be allowed 2 bags at 50 lbs per-bag. That's what their website says, at least. If they're telling the TA something else (and it sure sounds like they are), then you should obviously go with what they're telling the TA. However, before departure I would ask the TA to do some further inquiry up the line with SAS. Remind them of what their published policy states, and remind them that these are flights to and from the USA to Europe, and that according to their published policy they SHOULD be governed by the per-piece concept, NOT the total weight concept.

[RevNeal]

can't believe anyone could write such a confusing document.

LOL ... you've not read much Canon Law, have you? :D ;)

[Grumpy1]

I'm utterly confused. SAS's website -- the page I cited -- indicates that flights to and from the USA, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil are to be governed by the "piece" concept. In other words, for economy flights to and from the USA one should be allowed 2 bags at 50 lbs per-bag. That's what their website says, at least. If they're telling the TA something else (and it sure sounds like they are), then you should obviously go with what they're telling the TA. However, before departure I would ask the TA to do some further inquiry up the line with SAS. Remind them of what their published policy states, and remind them that these are flights to and from the USA to Europe, and that according to their published policy they SHOULD be governed by the per-piece concept, NOT the total weight concept.The only change I would make to your suggestion, is that I would make the inquiry myself, rather than going through the TA. Reason: the answer you get often is determined by how the question is asked. You may tell the TA what you want to know, but will the TA ask the right question or leave out some detail in their inquiry? I agree with you that it appears the 2 pieces at 50lb per piece allowances should apply.

[avj43]

Hi,

We flew to Seattle last summer on Southwest and had the 50lb per bag limit. Then took Amtrack to Vancouver to catch the ship and they also had a 50lb per bag limit and weighed our suitcases. So beware!!

[Marialivia]

Hello Again: I had of course printed the SAS site from which I quoted above, and it is sitting right before my very good eyes. For whatever it means, it says at the top 2006-04-24 (NOT the date on which I consulted it, which was just last week); Under the SAS logo it reads "Help Center," and under that "At the airport." I could look further and try to find a phone number on this site, but at this point I'll settle for the 44 lbs. suitcase and 18-lb. duffle.

You are ALL heroes! ML:rolleyes:

[MeOhMy]

I also do not do well moving luggage and must have help, but I saw all those ads for the luggage on wheels that spins out of the way so the nice lady carrying it can rush through the airport and bounce happily up some stairs in some European city. So I thought, looks good to me and saw some in Costco.

A charming gentleman offered to get it down for me then strongly urged me not to buy it. He said he traveled a lot and the wheels were too small and would get stuck in grates, etc. I looked; he was right.

If you do look for new luggage, look at the size of the wheels and what it is made of. I took "softsided" and low weight luggage on my last cruise. Flying out of Houston to Lisbon. I was lucky I did not pay attention to the rain so I did not worry until I got on the ship and found most of my clothes nicely wet. My stewardess, who was a princess, helped me turn my cabin into a laundry.

We had a wonderful time and laughed our heads off but she did gently suggest that the hard sided was worth the extra money.

Just some thoughts.

The previous cruise which was also airline out of Houston the curb side checker just kind of missed noticing the 55 pounds. Although he did tell us firmly never to do it again. We rearranged coming back and it worked out OK. His attitude seemed to be, well the two of them added up to less than 100 pounds.

[Grumpy1]

My sister uses a softside suitcase. She was getting ready for a flight yesterday and. after packing, saw that it was raining and probably would still be raining at the airport. She put everything into a plastic bag and put the bag into the suitcase. Problem solved, as long as TSA didn't tear the bag.

Driving across Florida to Port Everglades last year, we saw a pickup truck piled high with luggage of all descriptions. It was probably a group cruise or a baggage forwarding service. It was pouring rain so hard we could hardly see to drive. I wonder how wet those bags were when they arrived?

[MeOhMy]

Good advice!! Thank you because, frankly I prefer my soft sided luggage with its extra pockets and happy attitude toward bulging. The fun part: I got it at Target many years ago when my expensive stuff fell apart in St. Louis. It is holding up beautifully. Except for that little leak issue.

[wrp96]

Good advice!! Thank you because, frankly I prefer my soft sided luggage with its extra pockets and happy attitude toward bulging. The fun part: I got it at Target many years ago when my expensive stuff fell apart in St. Louis. It is holding up beautifully. Except for that little leak issue.

To stop your little leak problem, try packing everything in the really large Ziploc bags. Your stuff will be protected, you'll find it saves space, and usually you'll have less wrinkles that way as well.

[Starbright]

With regard to the comment about the weight still being on board the aircraft even if you pack heavier things into the hand luggage, I believe that the strict limits have been introduced to protect baggage handlers. There have been many back injuries caused by them having to lift extremely heavy bags.

According to the BA website, their luggage allowances for crossing the Atlantic are two pieces of luggage - each piece not to exceed 62 inches in total dimensions and 70 lbs in weight. Therefore you can take a total of 140 lbs in weight, so long as it fits into bags of the correct dimension. I can't imagine taking a bag weighing 70 lbs - even when going on a cruise - and I take everything but the kitchen sink with me! :eek:

[djallar]

...I can't imagine taking a bag weighing 70 lbs - even when going on a cruise - and I take everything but the kitchen sink with me! :eek:
Actually, the kitchen sink will bring the bag to 70 lbs :D

[Marialivia]

With regard to the comment about the weight still being on board the aircraft even if you pack heavier things into the hand luggage, I believe that the strict limits have been introduced to protect baggage handlers. There have been many back injuries caused by them having to lift extremely heavy bags.

Thanks for this message. I, above all people, should be sensitive to the back problems of others, being plagued with this same affliction myself. I often wonder how baggage handlers and furniture movers get through life! It seems to me that 44 lbs. (including weight of suitcase) should be enough for me, especially since I am allowed another 18 lbs. in my carry-on. :rolleyes: ML

[Starbright]

As I said above, I take everything I can lay my hands on when I go on holiday, cruise or otherwise, and have never had my bag weigh more than 44 lbs. Often it's not even near that.

However, I do like to go on flights that allow 2 hold bags per passenger, because then I can use one bag for difficult things like shoes! :)

[Marialivia]

Good to hear that 44 lbs. will be adequate! Since my previous posting, I've gotten the final word from the SAS rep herself that we can take 50 lbs. TOTAL, in addition to the 18-lb. carry-on. I'm feeling much better about all this, thanks to you and all the other kind posters on this thread -- it's nice to know I have such helpful friends here! (As you can probably deduce, I do not deal well with uncertainty!) ML:D

[sfocruiser]

I know, this one was new to me. I just received my documents for June on NCL when I saw it. I completely understand it but it is quite the pain in the rump as I'm flying BA & they still allow the bags up to 70 pounds so I am having to take 2 pieces now.

You should be fine for your June Trip but according to this thread, BA may be lowering thier allowances to 23kg come October 1

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=549088&highlight=baggage+limit