How to Avoid Oversize Baggage Fees with 62 Inch Luggage

When planning for a long vacation or business trip, choosing the right luggage is essential. Airlines have strict size and weight limits, and exceeding them can lead to unexpected oversize baggage fees. One term you might hear frequently is "62 inch luggage." Understanding what this means—and how to work with it—can save you time, money, and hassle at the airport.

In this guide, we’ll explain what 62 inch luggage is, how to stay within airline limits, and smart tips for shopping, especially if you're looking for luggage sets on sale that meet airline requirements. 

What is 62 Inch Luggage? 

"62 inch luggage" refers to the total linear dimensions of a suitcase. Airlines calculate this by adding the bag's length, width, and height. For most airlines, 62 inches (157 cm) is the maximum allowed size for a checked bag without incurring oversize fees. 

For example: 

Length: 30 inches 

Width: 20 inches 

Height: 12 inches 

Total: 30 + 20 + 12 = 62 inches 

This measurement includes wheels and handles. If your bag is even slightly over, airlines can charge hefty oversize fees—sometimes upwards of $100 per flight. 

Why Airlines Have Baggage Size Restrictions

Airlines implement size limits for several reasons: 

Weight distribution in the cargo hold Efficiency in loading and stacking Avoiding equipment damage Safety regulations Luggage over 62 inches often doesn’t fit well into the luggage compartments or conveyor systems. That’s why they charge more for bags outside the standard size.

Tips to Avoid Oversize Baggage Fees Here’s how you can avoid getting hit with extra charges when using 62 inch luggage: 

1. Measure Before You Travel Always measure your luggage from the floor (including the wheels) to the top of the bag. Use a tape measure and write down the dimensions. Check these against the airline’s baggage policy. 

2. Weigh Your Bag at Home Most airlines also limit the weight to 50 lbs (23 kg) for checked luggage. Even if your suitcase is within 62 inches, an overweight bag can incur additional fees. Use a luggage scale at home to be sure. 

3. Choose True 62 Inch Luggage Many brands advertise their products as “62 inch luggage,” but some may slightly exceed that once you include wheels or handles. Make sure the listed dimensions are accurate. Read reviews and manufacturer notes carefully before purchasing. 

4. Pack Smart and Light You don’t have to fill every inch of your suitcase. Leave some room for souvenirs or last-minute items. Use packing cubes, compression bags, and minimalist packing strategies to reduce bulk and stay under the weight limit. 

5. Avoid Bulging Even a standard 62 inch suitcase can go over the limit if it bulges out. Overstuffed bags can stretch and alter the external dimensions. Keep your items compact and evenly packed. Smart Shopping: Find the Right Luggage If you’re in the market for a new travel set, consider browsing luggage sets on sale that include bags designed for both carry-on and checked use. 

Many bundles offer one bag sized precisely for the 62-inch limit. What to Look For: Listed dimensions that total 62 inches or less Hard shell designs to prevent expansion beyond limits Lightweight materials like polycarbonate or aluminum 360-degree spinner wheels for easy airport navigation Expandable zippers (use with caution for tight airline limits).

 

Best Luggage Types for the 62-Inch Limit If you're trying to avoid oversize baggage fees, stick with these luggage types: 

✅ Hard-Shell Luggage These help maintain a rigid shape and prevent the bag from expanding too much. Ideal for travelers packing breakables or structured items. 

 ✅ Checked Bags in Luggage Sets Many luggage sets on sale include one bag designed to meet the 62-inch threshold. Buying in a set can also save money and help coordinate your travel style. 

✅ Soft-Sided Luggage with Compression Straps If flexibility is more important to you, soft-sided bags are lighter and can compress more easily—but you’ll need to be careful about overpacking. 

Bonus Tip: Know Your Airline’s Policy Different airlines have different rules. While 62 inches is the most common checked baggage size limit, some airlines are stricter or more lenient. Examples: United, American, Delta, JetBlue – standard limit is 62 inches Southwest – also follows 62 inches, but fees vary International carriers – can have different size or weight rules Always double-check before flying, especially for international trips. What Happens If You Exceed 62 Inches? If your luggage exceeds the 62-inch total dimension: You’ll likely pay an oversize baggage fee ranging from $75 to $200 You may also face overweight fees if it goes over 50 lbs The airline could even refuse to accept the bag if it's extremely large That’s why investing in a high-quality, accurately sized 62 inch luggage piece is a smart long-term choice. 

Where to find luggage sets on sale If you want to get the most value for your money, look for luggage sets on sale at: Brand outlets and manufacturer websites Seasonal clearance events (especially before summer and holidays) Online retailers like Amazon, Wayfair, or Macy’s Travel gear stores offering bundles with carry-on + checked bags Choosing a set gives you flexibility for different types of trips—and ensures you always have a properly sized checked bag on hand. Final Thoughts Avoiding oversize baggage fees doesn’t have to be stressful.

With the right planning, accurate measuring, and smart packing, your 62 inch luggage can meet airline guidelines with no extra costs. Always know the rules of your airline, and invest in quality luggage that’s both stylish and functional. And don’t forget to shop smart—check out the best luggage sets on sale to get top-rated pieces at unbeatable prices. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive if you’re equipped with the right gear.