Avoid Excess Baggage Charges By Packing Light

Tips for Packing Technique, What to Pack and Carry-on Luggage

Jul 21, 2008

With increasing fees for baggage weighing too much, being too tall or too wide or even for an extra bag, take the time to evaluate what is packed to avoid excess fees.

Baggage requirements vary for each airline, and are open to change at any time. Make sure to check the specific airline's baggage requirements before arriving at the airport, or even before packing.

Many airlines allow one carry-on bag plus a personal bag, like a purse or camera bag. Personal bags can be laptop computer bags, diaper bags, purses or camera cases. Some additional items that are allowed include a coat or jacket, one reading item, or one bag of duty free merchandise.

For most airlines, one carry-on bag is allowed but must be 40 pounds or less, not exceeding 45 inches when length plus width plus height are totaled and it must fit in baggage bins or underneath the seat. The weight and size of carry-on baggage does change and vary among airlines.

On average, checked baggage consists of one bag, 50 pounds or less, not longer than 60-65 inches in length. For short trips, consider just taking a carry-on bag, for quick transfers and avoid checked baggage mishaps. Make sure to check the individual airline policies on allowed baggage.

Re-evaluate What To Pack

In order to save money and not be charged extra for baggage, assess what is packed. Determine the climate and weather expected to occur during the vacation. If the weather indicates hot temperatures, pack lighter clothes that take up less space. If the weather is cold, consider taking jackets or coats on the aircraft, as they take up precious space in baggage.

Packing Technique

In order to save space, consider your packing technique. Rolling up clothing can save space, instead of folding. Pack items that can’t be folded in the middle of the suitcase or bag. Fill the edges of the bag or suitcase with socks and underwear. Finally, pack shoes last, with soles up. Shoes can also be packed with small items. Wear the bulkiest clothing, like jeans or sweatshirts, during your travel time, or wear layered clothing.

Make sure to pack items needing to be accessed during the trip, in the carry-on bag or personal bag. Also, consider packing a change of clothes in the carry-on bag, in case luggage is lost or delays require extra time in the airport or on the aircraft.

Personal Hygiene Items

Travelers may consider buying personal items like shampoo and conditioner at the destination, as tight restrictions are in place for these containers. If these containers are a necessity, make sure to place plastic bags around any bottles, in case leakage occurs. Those travelers needing hair dryers or curlers may consider using motel hair dryers or forgetting them altogether. This will leave space for more essential clothing.

By assessing packing techniques and packing light for vacations, avoid excess baggage charges or delays.

The copyright of the article Avoid Excess Baggage Charges By Packing Light in Budget Transportation is owned by Aurae Beidler. Permission to republish Avoid Excess Baggage Charges By Packing Light in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Jan 3, 2009 1:16 PM

Guest :

nice idea but when you are emigrating & are limited on luggage allowance its not very helpful to re-evaluate what to bring...

Jan 3, 2009 6:09 PM

Aurae Beidler :

That can be true. I would suggest looking into shipping companies that might be able to ship belongings for those moving. It might be cheaper than packing everything for the flight. Thanks for the comment.