My experience is that you are allowed 70lbs for international travel v. 50lbs for domestic. I even checked the website for United before our last cruise. Same for USAirways.

It's pretty hard to get above 60 pounds in a suitcase that is of legal size. It is the books that put Joanna over the top traveling to Alaska. She buys those paperbacks that aren't mostly air. It's only about $25 for a few extra pounds, which I have paid in the past for my future daughter in law. (How could I tell HER to repack, I am in training as a good mother in law!)

I always weigh my luggage before leaving on my "doctor's-type" scale at home. Yes, it is annoying be in line behind one who is over the weight limit.