Were you aware that every airline company has luggage regulations that all fliers are expected to know in advance? That's why it's a good idea to learn the airline's policy regarding luggage regulations-that way you can avoid any last minute changes or any forced flight cancellations.

Delta, Northwest and Southwest

Delta Airlines has a policy of three carry on bags per person. There is a limit of 40 pounds and measurements not to exceed 45 linear inches, which is 22 x 9 x 4. There are also two exclusions to this policy, small items such as purses or business cases do not count as bags.

Northwest's policy likewise says that three bags are allowed per person, with a maximum size of 45 linear inches, or 22 x 9 x 14. The weight limit is not to exceed 40 pounds. Exclusions only include coats and small purses, so a briefcase or computer would count as carryon luggage.

Southwest limits airport luggage to two bags per person, with slightly higher specifications in luggage size. 50 linear inches is allowed, which is 24 x 10 x 16. There is no luggage weight limit and consideration is given to coats, food containers, purses, occupied child seats, disability items and cameras, as exclusions.

TWA, United and US Air

TWA Airlines allows two bags per person, with 50 linear inches, coming to 24 x 10 x 16. There is no weight limit and coats as well as disability items like canes and walkers, are special exclusions.

United Airlines has a policy of two bags per person with a maximum size of 45 linear inches and fifty pounds maximum luggage weight. Disability items and coats do not count as they are exclusions.

Finally, US Air has a limit of three carry-on bags per passenger, not to exceed 50 linear inches or 24 x 16 x 10. The weight limit is not to exceed 40 pounds. Special exclusions mention handbags that are less than 8 x 14 x 4, cameras, coats, disability items and child safety seats that are occupied.

These are the luggage regulations for six of the top air line companies in the world.