Airline Baggage Weight Limits
Airlines around the world use different weight systems — kilograms in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East; pounds on most US domestic flights. Knowing the exact conversions can save you from surprise overweight fees at the check-in counter. Use this guide to understand the most common limits and convert quickly before you pack.
Quick Reference: Common Baggage Weights
- 7 kg = 15.4 lbs
- 10 kg = 22.0 lbs
- 20 kg = 44.1 lbs
- 23 kg = 50.7 lbs
- 30 kg = 66.1 lbs
- 32 kg = 70.5 lbs
Understanding Airline Weight Systems
Most US carriers state their baggage limits in pounds. The standard economy checked bag limit on US domestic routes is 50 lbs (22.7 kg). Overweight fees apply for bags between 50–70 lbs; bags over 70 lbs (32 kg) are often refused on many airlines.
International carriers — particularly in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East — use kilograms. The most common economy checked bag limit internationally is 23 kg (50.7 lbs), though budget carriers like Ryanair may limit you to 20 kg. Business and first class passengers on most international routes get 32 kg (70.5 lbs) per bag.
Carry-on rules differ just as much. US carriers rarely weigh carry-ons at the gate, focusing instead on size. Many European and Asian carriers enforce a strict 7–10 kg (15–22 lbs) carry-on limit. Low-cost carriers are most likely to enforce this at boarding.
kg to lbs Conversion Table
| Kilograms (kg) | Pounds (lbs) | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | 11.0 lbs | — |
| 10 kg | 22.0 lbs | Common carry-on max (budget airlines) |
| 15 kg | 33.1 lbs | — |
| 20 kg | 44.1 lbs | Ryanair checked bag limit |
| 25 kg | 55.1 lbs | — |
| 30 kg | 66.1 lbs | Emirates economy checked limit |
| 35 kg | 77.2 lbs | — |
| 40 kg | 88.2 lbs | — |
| 45 kg | 99.2 lbs | — |
| 50 kg | 110.2 lbs | — |
Major Airline Baggage Weight Limits
Limits are approximate and subject to change. Always verify with your airline before travel.
| Airline | Carry-On Limit | Economy Checked | Business / First |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | No weight limit (size only) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 70 lbs (32 kg) |
| Delta Air Lines | No weight limit (size only) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 70 lbs (32 kg) |
| United Airlines | No weight limit (size only) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 70 lbs (32 kg) |
| British Airways | 23 kg (50.7 lbs) | 23 kg (50.7 lbs) | 32 kg (70.5 lbs) |
| Emirates | 7 kg (15.4 lbs) | 30 kg (66 lbs) | 40 kg (88 lbs) |
| Ryanair | 10 kg (22 lbs) | 20 kg (44 lbs) | N/A (no business class) |
| Air Canada | 10 kg (22 lbs) | 23 kg (50.7 lbs) | 32 kg (70.5 lbs) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 23 kg in pounds for checked baggage?
23 kg equals approximately 50.7 lbs. This is the standard international economy checked bag limit for many airlines. US carriers often cap domestic flights at 50 lbs (22.7 kg) — so the two limits are nearly identical, just expressed differently.
What happens if my bag is overweight?
Overweight fees are charged at check-in and can range from $75 to $200+ per bag on US carriers. Bags over 70 lbs (32 kg) are often refused outright or cost significantly more. The most practical solution is repacking before you get to the airport — moving heavier items to carry-on or shipping separately.
What is a typical carry-on weight limit?
Most airlines that enforce carry-on weight limits set them at 7–10 kg (15–22 lbs). US carriers (American, Delta, United) focus on size dimensions rather than weight for overhead bins. Budget European carriers like Ryanair and easyJet strictly enforce weight limits at the gate — going over can result in forced gate-checked bag fees.