What size luggage can hold 50 pounds? Depending on how you pack, a suitcase under 28 inches should stay under the 50 lbs luggage weight limit. Most well made bags larger than that can hold 50 lbs easily.
I will show you a few really well made suitcases below. Click here to see my personal favorite on Amazon.
There are a few things to consider to make sure you have a suitcase that can hold 50 lbs or more.
Because larger suitcases have more interior space, they can hold more weight. In contrast, if you pack a small suitcase with heavy items like shoes or magazines or books, you’ll pass 50 lbs really fast.
I put together a little suitcase sizing guide that you can check before you buy a piece of luggage to make sure it will fit your needs and make sure you have enough space and stay under a 50 lbs luggage weight limit.
Also, there is a list of airline baggage weight limits at the bottom of the article for the most popular airlines for you too.
What Size Luggage can hold 50 lbs?
You can use a handy travel scale (like this one) to ensure your suitcase is weighed prior to check-in so you don’t have to pay for overweight baggage.
In order to spread the weight evenly between the two pieces of luggage, you can choose two smaller 24-inch suitcases.
Additionally, this will make your bags easier to handle.
It really depends on how you prefer to travel and what you find easier. You might like a couple of smaller bags and you might one larger bag.
Suitcase Sizing Guide
These are the sizes and what they weigh with an average mix of light and heavy items. (think clothes, toiletries, a book, etc.)
| 18” Suitcase | 20 – 25 lbs |
| 20” Suitcase | 25 – 30 lbs |
| 22” Suitcase | 30 – 35 lbs |
| 24” Suitcase | 35 – 40 lbs |
| 28” Suitcase | 40 – 50 lbs |
| 30” Suitcase | 50+ lbs |
Lightweight Luggage That Will Hold 50 lbs
These lightweight suitcases will definitely hold 50 lbs.
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Large 28-Inch
- 28 Spinner luggage maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips
- packing dimensions: 28.5 X 20.5 X 13.5, overall dimensions: 30.5 X 21.5 X 13.5, weight: 10.35 pounds
- 10 year limited warranty: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
- Micro diamond polycarbonate texture is extremely scratch resistant, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip
- Side mounted TSA locks act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling
- 4, multi-directional oversized spinner wheels for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight
- Book opening case with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket
- Expansion to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed
- Push-button locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Large 29-Inch
- A half pound lighter than maxlite 4, this lightweight 29 spinner maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips
- 4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degree for a smooth roll. Lightweight, sturdy PowerScope handle stops at 38 and 42.5 features a patented contour grip with rubberized touchpoints for easy maneuvering. Unique bottom tray design increases durability
- Expands up to 2 to maximize packing capacity. Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience
- 65 linear inches. Please check with your airline for specific check in baggage requirements
- Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year. Case Dimensions: 29x20.5x 8.5, Case Dimensions: 31x21x13, Weight: 8.5 lbs. The volume of the spinner is 142 lit
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
KENNETH COLE REACTION Out Of Bounds Luggage Collection Lightweight Durable Hardside 4-Wheel Spinner Travel Suitcase Bags, 28-Inch
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Ben Sherman Nottingham Lightweight Hardside 4-Wheel Spinner Travel Luggage, 28-inch
- Multi-directional 4-wheel spinners for smooth handling.
- Durable, hardside ABS exterior with molded corner guard reinforcements and a tear-resistant, fully lined interior.
- Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets and a garment restraint panel.
- Flexible top, bottom, and side grab handles allow for easy lifting.
- Retractable telescoping trolley handle extends 41 inches.
- Overall Dimensions - 30” H x 21” L x 12.5” D.
- Packing Dimensions - 28” H x 20.5” L x 12” D.
- Weight - 10.35 l
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-Inch Check-Size Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Large 28-Inch
- 28 SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips
- PACKING Dimensions: 27.6 x 20.0 x 13.0, OVERALL Dimensions: 31.1 x 20.95 x 13.78, 9.5 lbs.
- 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
- RECESSED TSA combination lock provides security when checked belongings, cases expand for added packing capacity
- ULTRA-LIGHT, ultra strong shells withstand the rigors of modern travel
- FOUR MULTI-DIRECTIONAL double spinner wheels allow 360 degree upright rolling so there is no weight on your arm or shoulder
- CROSS RIBBON and DIVIDER for easy packing, multiple pockets to keep belongings organized and built-in ID tag
- EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed
- PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Lightweight Luggage Sets
American Tourister Pop Max Softside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Teal, 3-Piece Set (21″/25″/29″)
- Four Multi Directional Spinner Wheels for easy mobility, rolls upright so there is no weight on your arm or shoulder
- PADDED TOP AND SIDE carry handles provide comfort when lifting a fully packed case, cases expand for added packing capacity
- INTERIOR Includes bloused shoe pockets, accessory mesh pocket, modesty Pocket, and cross straps
- Push Button Handle Locks when fully extended so you can Push or pull your case; The handle also locks when fully recessed, greatly reducing the risk of damage when not in use
- 3 PIECE SET contains: 21 Spinner: 21 x 14 x 7.5 & 8.6 pounds. 25 Spinner: 25 x 18 x 8.5 & 10.5 pounds. 29 Spinner: 29 x 20 x 9.5 & 12.12 pounds
- 10 Year Limited Warranty: American Tourister products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards; This set comes with a 10 Year Warranty against defects in materials and workmans
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Black, 3-Piece Set (20″/24″/28″)
- Three-piece set of hard-side suitcases with multidirectional spinner wheels and interior mesh zip compartment
- Includes 20 inch, 24 inch , 28 inch Upright
- Sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle
- Due to differences in monitors/screens - Actual product color may appear slightly different than shown on the si
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, 2-Piece Set (21″/28″)
- SET INCLUDES 21 Carry On (meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 28 Spinner (maximize your packing power and the ideal checked bags for longer trips)
- 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
- RECESSED TSA combination lock provides security when checked belongings, cases expand for added packing capacity
- ULTRA-LIGHT, ultra strong shells withstand the rigors of modern travel
- FOUR MULTI-DIRECTIONAL double spinner wheels allow 360 degree upright rolling so there is no weight on your arm or shoul
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, 3-Piece Set (20″/24″/28″)
- Set includes 20 carry on (Meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 24/28 spinners (Maximize your packing power and the ideal checked bags for longer trips)
- 10 year limited warranty: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
- Micro-diamond polycarbonate texture is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip
- Side-mounted TSA locks act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling
- 4, multi-directional oversized spinner wheels for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight
- Book opening case with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket
- Expansion to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed
- Push-button locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Weight Limits For Airline Luggage
Delta
Delta Airlines Luggage Weight Limits
- Dimensions – 62 in / 158 cm (length x width x height)
- Weight – 50 lbs / 23 kgs
- $30 Each Bag Under 50 lbs
- $40 Each Additional Bag Under 50 lbs
United Airlines
United Airlines Luggage Weight Limits
- Dimensions – up to 62 in / 158 cm (length x width x height)
- Weight – up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs
- First/Business Weight – up to 70 lbs / 32kgs
American Airlines
American Airlines Luggage Weight Limits
- Dimensions – 62 in / 158 cm (length x width x height)
- Weight – 50 lbs / 23 kgs
- First/Business Weight – 70 lbs / 32kgs
- $150 to $200 Overweight Baggage Fee
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airline Luggage Weight Limits
- Dimensions – up to 62 in / 158 cm (length x width x height) before fees (max 80 inches)
- Weight – up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs before incurring fees (max 100 lbs)
- $75 Overweight Baggage Fee
- $75 Three Bags Plus Fee
- $75 Oversized Baggage Fee
Alaska Air
Alaska Air Luggage Weight Limits
- Dimensions – up to 62 in / 158 cm (length x width x height)
- Weight – up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs
- $30 for the first bag under 50 lbs + $40 for each additional Bag
- $100/each Overweight Baggage or Three Plus Bags Fee
Can a suitcase be over 50 lbs?
Yes, your suitcase can be over 50 lbs but not over 100 lbs with most airlines. You will just need to pay a fee based on its weight. American, Delta, and United charge $100 for each checked bag weighing 50 – 70 lbs (24 to 32 kg), or $200 for bags weighing more than 70 lbs (33 to 46 kg) on domestic flights.
Fees for excess, oversized, and standard baggage are in addition to that.
How can I tell if my suitcase is 50 pounds?
At the airport already?
At the airport, you can ask one of the airline’s front desk associates or curbside check-in counters and weigh it there.
Before getting to the airport
At your home or before you get to the airport you have two options.
How to use a bathroom scale to weigh your suitcase
1 – Place the bathroom scale on a level surface.
2 – Measure your weight and write it down.
3 – Step back onto the scale with your luggage in hand. Take note of the new weight.
4 – Subtract your first weight from the second one. All that’s left is the luggage weight.
5 – In the case of a heavy or large item that is difficult to carry on the scale with your arms, prop it up on the scale by itself as best as you can.
How to use a handheld scale to weigh your suitcase
Consider purchasing a handheld luggage scale like this one to make luggage weighing easier.
1 – The scale should be set to zero. To reset a digital scale, press the On button and wait for the numbers to reset to zero.
2 – Use the hook or strap on the scale to attach your luggage.
3 – Slowly lift up the luggage for five to ten seconds.
4 – The scale will display your suitcase’s weight
What happens if your suitcase is over 50 lbs united?
U.S. domestic flights operated by United Airlines (UA) will be charged the following extra charges if the bags exceed 50 lbs (23 kg): 51 to 70 lbs (24 to 32 kg): $100.00 USD to $200 USD. The additional cost for 71-100 lbs (33 to 46 kg) bags is $400.00 USD.
Related: What Does “Seat Request” Mean on a Delta Ticket?
What happens if your suitcase is over 50 lbs on American Airlines?
Bags weighing more than 50 pounds are considered overweight by American Airlines. There is a $100 fee for bags weighing 51-70 lbs (24 to 32 kg) and a $200 fee for bags weighing 71-100 lbs (33 to 46 kg) for overweight baggage. These fees will be added to any other baggage fee.
What happens if my luggage is over 50 lbs on Frontier?
Frontier charges $75 per bag, per direction, for bags weighing more than 50 lbs. They do not accept bags exceeding 100 pounds.
What size suitcase holds 40 lbs?
So long as you aren’t packing the whole suitcase with very heavy items, a roller style suitcase that is about 24 inches to 26 inches will hold between – 35-40 lbs. And a 26 inches to 28 inches roller-style suitcase holds approximately 40-50 lbs.
What happens if your bag is over 50 pounds on Southwest?
On Southwest, oversized and overweight items over 62 inches in length or 50 lbs weight will be charged $75 each. However, Your bag cannot be more than 80 inches (L+W+H).
Related: Best Folding Luggage Carts
How much do you have to pay if your luggage is over 50 pounds on Delta?
Delta Airlines (DL) charges the following for bags that are greater than the standard 50 pounds or 23 kg on US domestic flights:
51 to 70 lbs (24 to 32 kg) – $100.00 USD per bag.
71 to 100 lbs (33 to 46 kg) – $200.00 USD per bag.
Over 100 lbs (46.36 kg) – not allowed
What if my checked bag is over 50 lbs on Jetblue?
As of now, carry-on baggage is not subject to weight restrictions. You will be charged $150 extra if your bag exceeds 50 lbs (23 kg). Bags over 100 lbs (46.36 kg) are not allowed.
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Can you pay for overweight baggage?
You can pay for overweight baggage. The cost of overweight checked baggage is significantly higher than the cost of underweight checked luggage. Several airlines charge a fee for checked bags weighing between 50 and 70 lbs or over 70 lbs on domestic flights, such as American and United.
