Checking in an oversized suitcase

Thoie

Short version - I've ended up with a 32" suitcase (and no other) for a trip to the US next month. I'm flying with United and their checked baggage limitations state '62" linear' (H+W+D). Mine comes in at 66" when you add all the dimensions. Do they check suitcase sizes that carefully?

My main concern is that if I get sent to oversize baggage, I only have a 90 minute transfer in Newark, and I'd be concerned that a marked oversize bag would be more likely to miss the transfer.

Does anyone have any experience flying with a 32" suitcase, particularly with United?

This one can't be returned (it was a gift, and the giver can't find the receipt), so I'll need to go buy a new one if this won't do.

highlydebased

There would most probably be a discretionary allowance- 4" is unlikely to make much of a difference at all if you ask me.

biddywiddy

I would guess that more emphasis will be placed on the weight restrictions than on the dimensions. If you are under the weight limit, you will probably be fine. 4 inches is not much, especially if it is spread around the whole case.

I've travelled transatlantic a few times in the last year with cases at and over the weight limit. No one ever measured the case dimensions, but the weight was always checked (and we had to redistribute to avoid charges).

Thoie

I should be fine for the weight (I have a "weigh your suitcase" thingy that I bring with me, and have it calibrated as well as one can calibrate a cheap thingy). Just don't want to be sent off to the naughty "oversize luggage" or have anything risk the transfer.

Would love someone to leap in saying they bring 32" suitcases on United on a daily basis

endofrainbow

United have been clamping down big time on oversized bags for the last few months. At the end of the day, your bag is bigger than their limitations and if everyone said *oh it's only an extra 4 inches* where would that leave you ?

for peace of mind, get a bag that meets their requirements.