AirTran Baggage Rules

[Piecey]

I am trying to figure out whether or not our suitcase is oversized by AirTran's baggage rules.
I thought they usually gave you the dimensions but AirTran has "70" or smaller"... well. Uh. How do I figure that out? I realize this might sound silly but I'm confused and worried. $79 is a heck of a fee to cough over for a suitcase that is too big!!

BTW, our suitcase (by our measurements) is 23x21x16. The other is smaller so I know if this one will the other will be fine.

I'd appreciate any help.

 

[Leash]

From Airtran's website:

Oversize Baggage
Oversize baggage rates are based on overall dimensions (length + width + height): $79 for bags with dimensions from 71 to 80 inches. Baggage over 80 inches in dimension (with the exception of some sporting equipment) will not be accepted.

So since your dimensions add up to 60" you should be good. From what I have read on hear however I would reccomend that you re measure after packing as it has been said that the airline will include any bulges in the total size. Also make sure your measurements include all handles and wheels.

 

[ScubaCat]

It also depends on whether or not you get one of the 10-20% of agents that actually measure. One time I was at the airport extremely early and got busted for having a bag 4 inches oversized at the inside check-in counter. I agreed to go repack and come back, but really what I did was walk outside and check it with the curbside check-in where I could just flash the tip ahead of time and avoid the entire issue altogether.

 

[wezee]

We flew home on Airtran a couple of weeks ago with no problems. My largest bag was bulging, but within the weights limits. The agent at checkin didn't even bat an eye. I felt a little bad when we retrieved our luggage in Detroit and there were 2 big "heavy, lift with caution" stickers on my bag.

 

[ScubaCat]

Tags on my baggage don't bother me; only the fees