Korean Job Discussion Forums

[kimc0486]

Hey,

I haven't bought my ticket yet (waiting on visa, will prob buy this week) and am flying from Seattle-Seoul. Asiana and Korean Air fly direct from Seattle, but am wondering about how strict they are on baggage rules.

Asiana's checked baggage rules allow for 2 free (up to 50 lbs) pieces of baggage, which is fine, but it is the dimensions I am worried about, Maximum Dimensions: 62 linear inches/157 cm (length + width + height).

I planned on checking a backpacking style backpack (unsure of exact dimensions, but it is long) and a smaller backpack. Do they actually measure the luggage?

Also, their carry on limit seems very restricted, one piece at less than 22 lbs. Do they measure carry on luggage? I generally travel (carry on) with a carry on size roller suitcase, plus a backpack with my laptop (it is a laptop specific bag) and usually a pillow and have never had any problems. Guessing this wouldn't fly on Asiana?

Korean Air seems a little more generous Each Economy Class passenger is allowed two pieces of luggage as long as each piece does not weigh more than 23 kg/50 lbs and the sum of the dimensions of both bags does not exceed 107 in/273 cm. Their carry on policy seems more what I am used to as well (personal item plus luggage).

Does anyone have any experience with checked or carry on luggage with either of these airlines?

Thanks!

[ttompatz]

Coming from SeaTac they won't be using their own counter staff but some from one of the American carriers.

Usually, unless the plane is FULL, they are not that strict.
IF the plane is pretty much filled then then tend to be more strict (especially in economy).

They don't usually measure the bags unless they are grossly over-sized and then they will make you check it as "oversize" baggage and you will pay extra for it.

With cabin baggage it is the same (with the caveat that you are being checked-in by American personnel and NOT Korean/Asiana staff) and they don't usually worry unless it appears to be grossly over-sized or over weight.

.

[ThingsComeAround]

They do measure carry-on luggage. Having 4 flights within the last 2 months I can tell you they are always looking out for some travelling noob that packed a few to many shirts in that duffel.

If/when they do catch you, if its one attendant, they are more likely to let you off if you are super polite. When they are in groups, it sucks because they will ask you to pay politely

[SCAshley]

I flew over on Asiana and they weighed my luggage and carry-on but did not measure any of the items. In addition to my carry-on piece I took a large purse which easily outweighed my carry-on, no joke (it was stuffed to the brim) and no one said anything (and my flight was completely booked/full). I saw plenty of guys carrying backpacks in addition to their carry-on, no problem. This is just my personal experience though, and may depend on the person who checks you in. Good luck!

[SCAshley]

I flew over on Asiana and they weighed my luggage and carry-on but did not measure any of the items. In addition to my carry-on piece I took a large purse which easily outweighed my carry-on, no joke (it was stuffed to the brim) and no one said anything (and my flight was completely booked/full). I saw plenty of guys carrying backpacks in addition to their carry-on, no problem. This is just my personal experience though, and may depend on the person who checks you in. Good luck!

[kimc0486]

What do you mean they will ask me to pay? Is there a fee for oversized carry on items? I have been required to check a carry on on flights before (merely b/c overhead bins were full) but was not charged to check it. If they make you check (once on board) b/c an item is oversized, how much is it generally? I couldn't find anything on their site about that.

Thanks for all the advice everyone!!

[Caffeinated]

Asiana asked me to pay for check-in baggage that was 2kg over. Made me wish airlines took body weight into account as well when determining how much money they should gouge you for.

[orestria]

[blobbo]

I have found with long haul flights they are pretty good but there is no guarantee you'll meet the baggage nazi on the desk. Don't get get there too early and be first is my big tip - after they have checked and tagged the 200th suitcase, they are going to be less bothered.