Carry on bag weight

[abcdefg]

Last week I flew from China (Yantai 烟台) to Seoul (ICN) and from there to Tokyo (NRT) enroute back to the USA. Stopped a few days in Korea and again in Japan, so I had to do the whole security ritual several times. They weighed my carry-on baggage, and that hasn't happened to me before. Happened just outside international flight security at ICN and again at NRT. Did not take place in China. They weighed everyone's carry on; I don't think mine attracted special attention by "looking too heavy."

Turned out mine was OK, so it wasn't a problem. I didn't ask what the actual weight limit was; unfortunately I didn't think of it until too late, and I wasn't about to go back to inquire and potentially stir up trouble. "Sorry sir, it seems your rucksack really is over the limit. You will have to..."

Only mentioning it here because I know some forum members have previously mentioned the tactic of loading all those heavy textbooks into a "ten-ton backpack" so their checked suitcase is not overweight. The upshot is that this method may not be bulletproof and some consideration should be given to shipping at least a few of the real heavy items by surface mail prior to departure.

[roddy]

For what it's worth, I flew BJ<>ICN last week, and on the way back a few people who were obviously taking liberties were being told to put their bags in the hold when they arrived at the gate. They seemed more concerned about size than weight though, as it was a 737.

[Daan]

I had my carry-on bag weighed as well when I flew from Amsterdam to Taipei last year, but not on the return flight. I think the limit was 12 kg. Mine was a bit heavier, so I actually had to pay extra! So yes, it's a good idea not to rely on this method too much. Especially when you're going back home - just send your books over by post, that's a lot cheaper than paying the ridiculous fees airlines charge

[gougou]

In China, I actually had employees at the check-in recommend to move stuff (i.e. books weighing about 30 pounds) out of my suitcase and into carry-on, as nobody cares about that. I think I've seen an officially stated limit of 8kg somewhere though. Flying from China, I'd give that method a try again anytime. (Of course, you could also make sure that you don't have the bulk of your carry-on with you at check-in, and only pack up after your bags have been weighed.)

I've also seen them checking in carry-on because it was too bulky (and the plane was full), sometimes as late as at the boarding gate.