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The Daily Insight

Can you check in a box on an airplane?

Author

Robert Guerrero

Updated on May 05, 2026

Yes, you can! Typically, college students and people that are moving or relocating tend to check extra boxes with an airline. It doesn't matter to the airline if you are checking a piece of luggage or a box as long as weight and dimensions are within range for their checked bag categories – remember, size matters.

In this regard, can I take a box as checked baggage?

yes, a box can be used instead of a suitcase because it will take all your items, but before doing so please make sure you review your airline baggage allowance rules.

Likewise, how big of a box can you check on a plane? Checked Luggage

The most common maximum size bag allowed is 62 linear (total) inches. A common size bag for checking through is: 27" x 21" x 14". Airline carriers will allow overweight, oversize or additional baggage for additional fees.

People also ask, can you check packages on a plane?

Yes, you can check a cardboard box if it is within the allowed baggage size for the airline.

Can you put a box on a plane?

It is solid - especially if you wrap it in plastic before checking it in. It can be carried by any airline - I looked online for a while, and could not find any airline that would refuse to carry a cardboard box, as long as it fit the required dimensions.

Related Question Answers

What is not allowed in a carry on bag?

Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

How do you pack a cardboard box for air travel?

Wrap the entire box with duct tape to reinforce it. Use tape to seal the "hand holes" on either side used for carrying the box. Run packing tape around all the edges to reinforce the box. Write "FRAGILE" on multiple sides of the box.

Is a backpack considered a carry on?

A carry-on bag must fit underneath the seat or in an enclosed overhead bin. Personal items include: Handbag, purse, or pocketbook, backpack, briefcase, laptop computer, with or without a bag.

What happens if my carry on is too big?

Here's what might happen if your carry on bag is one inch too big… You might be forced to check your bag at the boarding gate and be made to pay a checked bag fee. Most airlines now charge for checked bags with the exception of Southwest. Fees range between $25 and $35.

Can I take a cardboard box as hold luggage?

A cardboard box is perfectly fine for checked baggage on a plane.

Can we carry two check in baggage?

You can bring as many bags as you wish as long as it is within your purchased or complimentary checked baggage allowance. If you are bringing two (2) bags weighing 10kg each, both will still be considered as two (2) pieces. If you have purchased two (2) pieces, 1 bag weighs 25 kg and the other is 15 kg.

Will bubble wrap pop on an airplane?

“Put fluffy stuff to absorb the energy, and that will transmit very little energy to the next object.” Bubble wrap and Styrofoam, which are both light but also tend to bounce back to their original shape, are ideal.

What size box is 62 linear inches?

20.66 x 20.66 x 20.66 inches

Can I duct tape my luggage?

If you're traveling a lot of planes, buses, trains, and taxis, use your duct tape to secure your bags as a simple theft deterrent. Wrap the duct tape around your luggage, tucking the zipper pulls under the tape, as a way to deter baggage handlers and other transportation officials from pilfering your bags.

What size is a checked bag?

Checked Baggage Size and Weight Limits

Most domestic airlines publish checked baggage size limits as a single dimension: 62 linear inches total. International airlines vary slightly, but the 62-inch rule is the most common standard worldwide.

What size box Can I check on American Airlines?

45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 in) or 115 centimeters (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels. Fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Personal item should be of proper size to fit under the seat in front of you.

Which airlines allow 2 checked bags?

Fly in a premium cabin
  • Alaska Airlines. First class: 2 free checked bags (includes upgrades to First Class if you are upgraded before baggage drop off)
  • American Airlines. First class: 3 free checked bags.
  • Delta. First class: 2 free checked bags (up to 70 pounds each)
  • JetBlue.
  • United Airlines.
  • Southwest.

Are 29 inch suitcases allowed on planes?

29 inches is too large for domestic carry on, let alone international. Most international carry limits are around 21 inches maximum, which includes the wheels. If you are looking for a check through bag then 27 inches is the “normal” size though that varies by airlines.

How heavy can my carry on bag be?

For many major domestic airlines — think: Delta, Southwest, JetBlue — there are no weight restrictions for carry-on bags. You'll just have to be able to lift it above your head into the storage bin.

Is 28 inch luggage considered oversized?

Re: Is my Samsonite 28" suitcase too big? You should be fine. The maximum size, L+W+H is 62" inches. I suspect luggage manufacturers know that's the industry standard and design their bags accordingly.

Can you bring a box as a checked bag Delta?

This supersedes all exceptions. Boxes are accepted as checked baggage to/from Central or South America ONLY if they are in the original, factory-sealed box. Exception – Boxes are NOT permitted to/from Brazil, Mexico, and Chile at any time of the year.

How do you move a plane?

Here are 6 tips for making your next move by plane.
  1. Make sure to plan ahead.
  2. Lighten up.
  3. Double your packing space.
  4. Weigh before you go.
  5. Look into alternative shipping options.
  6. Minimize stress where you can.

Can I check a cardboard box as luggage on United?

Cardboard boxes are okay for checked baggage as long as they meet the size and weight limits. The printed tags will stick to he surface of the boxes.