total dimension for checked baggage - does it really matter?

[busunge]

Hi,
I'm thinking about purchasing the Samsonite Cosmolite FL 81 cm Spinner Suitcase, which the total linear dimension is 170cm (81 x 55 x 34 cm).
Qantas, Lufhansa, Qatar and SAS allow 158cm whereas Emirates and AirBerlin do not specify.
So my question is do the total dimensions really matter? Will they check? Or is the suitcase I want to get just too big?
Thank you in advance for your advice

 

[ckck]

Any airline that specifies the maximum dimensions may not allow baggage that is larger than say 158cm. How strictly they enforce this is another question all together. If there is a maximum measurement listed in the terms and conditions I personally would be prepared to stick to it.

 

[AstroDamo]

Not sure on if they check but looking at Qantas' website I come up with 140cm as their limit.

Edit:

Nevermind Domestic is 140cm, International is 158.

 

[eric2011]

Question...Would a well known and respected baggage company who specialises in airline baggage and who has been producing that baggage for many, many years make and sell something which isn't allowed in popular, well known airlines. I somehow doubt it.

Get the suitcase you want.

p.s and welcome to AFF as a new member

 

[Mal]

Question...Would a well known and respected baggage company who specialises in airline baggage and who has been producing that baggage for many, many years make and sell something which isn't allowed in popular, well known airlines. I somehow doubt it.

Get the suitcase you want.

While you may not see tape measures being used, yes baggage size can be determined electronically. Why risk it... Just buy an item which is within the guidelines.

The last thing I want at the airport is hassles with a bag that big.

 

[ckck]

Question...Would a well known and respected baggage company who specialises in airline baggage and who has been producing that baggage for many, many years make and sell something which isn't allowed in popular, well known airlines. I somehow doubt it.

Get the suitcase you want.

p.s and welcome to AFF as a new member

A company will sell anything that people are prepared to put $$$ down for.

I had a quick look at the Samsonite Australia website and it says nothing about the Samsonite Cosmolite 81cm being an approved size by certain airlines. Given that airlines can change their T&C's about what size is/isn't ok a company would be brave to make claims given that any airline can change their mind at any time and there is no reason for them to notify Samsonite about any changes.

I would still err on the side of caution and purchase a bag that is within the size limits.

 

[Hvr]

Not sure on if they check but looking at Qantas' website I come up with 140cm as their limit.

Edit:

Nevermind Domestic is 140cm, International is 158.

For my flight next week (MEL-SYD-BKK) I have received the following as part of the 'helpful information to prepare for the flight':

Also there is a thread on FT talking about experiences at SYD AP. and carry on luggage with a photo of the actual sign.

	Important Information

[TD="bgcolor: #ffffff"]

[/TD]

[TD="width: 8, bgcolor: #ffffff"]

[/TD]

[TD="colspan: 5"]

[/TD]

[TD="width: 8, bgcolor: #ffffff"]

[/TD]
[TD="width: 24, bgcolor: #ffffff"][/TD]
[TD="width: 8, bgcolor: #ffffff"]

[/TD]
[TD="width: 600, bgcolor: #ffffff"] In response to customer demand for an even more seamless boarding and in-cabin experience, during October, Qantas will be reminding customers travelling on Domestic flights from Sydney Domestic T3 about the importance of adhering to its generous Carry-On baggage allowance.
Carry-On Baggage allowances for Qantas Domestic flights departing Sydney are as follows*:

• 2 bags measuring 48cm x 34cm x 23cm; or
• 1 bag measuring 48cm x 34cm x 23cm plus a non-rigid garment bag measuring 60cm x114cm x11cm; or
• 1 bag measuring 56cm x 36cm x 23cm.

Each bag brought on board the aircraft can weigh up to 7kg. You will need to check-in any excess baggage.
Qantas staff will be assisting passengers in the terminal to check-in excess Carry-On baggage in an effort to improve the punctuality, safety and comfort of flights for our customers.
*Carry-on baggage allowances on some smaller aircraft types may be less. Find out more about our checked and carry-on baggage allowances at qantas.com.
[/TD]

 

[under the radar]

suitcases/luggage isnt the exclusive domain of airline 'rules'/ cargo holds.... they can be utilized for a range of other purposes/transport options... so as stated by others on here , the luggage manufacturer/retailer will make/sell whatever size luggage it can!!! 'think outside the box'...or in this case..'think outside the cabin/cargo hold'

 

[Gorbo]

Hi Busunge,

The Samsonite Cosmolite FL is the most recent version of the Samsonite Curve range. The previous model came in an 85cm case which was also over the allowed dimensions for international travel with most airlines. The new 81cm is smaller but you are correct it is still over the 158cm maximum allowance for Qantas and some other airlines. I had heard from our customer base that a rare few did have issues with the previous 85cm but i must stress this was a very small percentage. I have not heard of any issues with the new 81cm model, the large Cubelite from a similar Samsonite range is similar dimensions to the new 81cm and i have heard of no issues with this case. These are however both very big cases and i would recommend sticking to cases around the 72-76cm for ease of use reasons, both ranges have suitcases that fit into this size range. Eagle Creek have some great options to make packing more efficient so you can really get the most out of the volume of the case and may allow those that are concerned about this an alternative and option to scale down to the smaller size.

If you have any more questions please let me know, happy to answer all your luggage related questions.

Michael
The Luggage Professionals Store | Shop Luggage Online & In-store in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney at Most Competitive Prices