Luggage Weight Budget Calculator
Calculate your available luggage weight after bag tare weight.
Stay under airline limits and avoid overweight fees.
Available Packing Weight
Every kilogram matters when flying. Understanding your exact luggage weight budget — after subtracting the weight of the empty bag itself — helps you avoid unexpected overweight fees at the check-in counter.
How airline baggage weight limits work:
Most airlines charge significant fees for overweight baggage. The fee structure varies widely:
- Budget European carriers (Ryanair, EasyJet): €10–€30 per kg over the limit
- US domestic carriers: $75–$200 for the first overweight bag
- International carriers: Fees can be $100+ per overweight bag
Standard baggage allowances:
Checked baggage:
- Economy (most US carriers): 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag
- Economy (many international): 20–23 kg (44–50 lbs)
- Business class: 30–32 kg (66–70 lbs)
- Premium economy: 23–30 kg (50–66 lbs)
Carry-on baggage:
- Most airlines: 7–10 kg (15–22 lbs) carry-on limit
- US domestic flights: Size restrictions but often no weight limit on carry-on
- Budget airlines: 10 kg or less strict limit
Typical bag tare weights:
| Bag Type | Typical Empty Weight |
|---|---|
| Small carry-on (55cm) | 1.5–3.5 kg |
| Large carry-on (78cm) | 2.5–4.0 kg |
| Medium checked (66cm) | 2.5–4.5 kg |
| Large checked (76cm) | 3.5–6.0 kg |
| XL/Extra large checked | 5.0–8.0 kg |
| Lightweight carry-on | 1.0–1.8 kg |
| Backpack (40L) | 1.0–2.0 kg |
Pro tips:
- Weigh your bag at home with a luggage scale before heading to the airport
- Wear your heaviest items on the plane (coat, boots, sweater) to free up bag weight
- If overweight, move heavy items (books, shoes, toiletries) to carry-on
- Check your airline’s exact allowance — it varies by route, fare class, and frequent flyer status
- Liquids in carry-on: typically max 100ml per container, all fitting in one 1-liter clear bag (EU/UK/AU rules)