How to Use the Luggage Weight Distribution Calculator
Enter your total luggage weight, number of checked bags, per-bag weight limit, and carry-on limit. The calculator tells you how to split your luggage to stay within all limits and avoid costly overweight fees.
Common US Airline Baggage Limits
Most US carriers (American, Delta, United) allow 50 lbs (23 kg) per checked bag for economy, with a 70 lb (32 kg) maximum. Carry-on limits are typically 22 lbs (10 kg). Basic Economy fares may not include a checked bag at all. International business/first class often allows 70 lbs (32 kg) per bag.
Strategies to Avoid Overweight Fees
Heavy items like shoes, books, and toiletries go in checked bags. Electronics, valuables, and medication belong in carry-on. If you're close to the limit, wear your heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane — they don't count against your bag weight. Using a personal item (backpack) in addition to a carry-on can also add 10–15 lbs of capacity on most airlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your airline charges per bag, one bag is cheaper — as long as it's under the weight limit. If each bag has a 50 lb limit, splitting evenly gives you 100 lbs total capacity vs. 50 lbs for a single bag. If you'd otherwise pay a second bag fee anyway, splitting the weight is the right call to avoid the overweight surcharge.
Yes. Most airlines require carry-on dimensions of 22×14×9 inches (56×36×23 cm) or smaller. Even if your bag is under the weight limit, oversized bags will be gate-checked — often for free on domestic flights, but sometimes at a fee on international ones.