Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical, expert answers to the most common questions travelers ask about luggage sizing, TSA locks, airline baggage rules, and suitcase repairs.
Q. What size suitcase is guaranteed to fit in the overhead bin?
For US domestic travel on American, Delta, and United, suitcases with maximum exterior dimensions of 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 36 × 23 cm) including wheels and handles will fit standard overhead bins. For European low-cost carriers (e.g., Ryanair or EasyJet), maximum heights often range from 21.6″ to 22″, and bags must not exceed strict weight limits (typically 7 kg to 10 kg). Check our full Airline Carry-On Sizing Guide for carrier-specific limits.
Q. What is a TSA combination lock and how does it work?
A TSA-approved lock features a combination dial for your personal security, along with a master keyway marked with the red Travel Sentry diamond logo. Transportation Security Administration officers at airport security screening checkpoints have master keys to open and inspect your bag without cutting or destroying your lock or suitcase zippers.
Q. What should I do if an airline cracks or breaks my luggage?
You must file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airline’s airport Baggage Service Office before leaving the baggage claim area. Take timestamped photos of the cracked shell, broken wheel, or torn handle immediately alongside your baggage claim tag sticker. Most airlines strictly reject damage claims submitted after you have exited the terminal.
Q. Polycarbonate vs. ABS: Which luggage material is better?
100% Polycarbonate is far superior in durability. Under violent impacts (such as baggage handler drops), polycarbonate flexes and snaps back to its original shape. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is cheaper and lighter, but it is rigid and prone to cracking under extreme force or cold cargo hold temperatures. For frequent travelers, we always recommend 100% virgin polycarbonate over pure ABS.
Q. Spinner wheels vs. Inline wheels: Which is better?
4-wheel spinners offer 360-degree effortless glide alongside you on flat airport floors, reducing wrist and shoulder strain. However, 2-wheel inline skate wheels are larger, recessed into the suitcase frame, and handle rough European cobblestones, curbs, and snow much better. If you travel primarily through modern international airports, choose a 4-wheel spinner; if you trek across uneven city streets, a 2-wheel roller is more robust.
Q. Can broken luggage wheels and handles be replaced at home?
Yes! In most modern suitcases, spinner wheel housings and telescopic handle assemblies are secured with interior Phillips-head screws behind the zippered lining. With a screwdriver and inexpensive universal replacement wheels or handles, you can fix broken components in under 20 minutes. See our step-by-step Luggage Fix & Repair Guide.
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