Extra baggage is always a problem, whether in life or on a trip. Knowing what item to take out can go a long way.
Once upon a time, choosing a seat and checking a bag were included in the cost of your flight. Unfortunately, with the trend of budget airlines, and as more airlines offer up “Basic Economy” fares on international routes, what once was usual is now an extra, and checked luggage can cost $30, $50, or even more each way. On some routes, the only thing you get for free is a backpack that can fit in the space provided above your seat aboard a plane.
Oversized luggage refers to any piece of luggage larger than the standard size for carry-on or checked baggage. This can include anything from suitcases and duffel bags to golf clubs and skis – any piece of luggage that weighs more than 50 pounds.
Here are a few tips on how to manage your luggage that cost you extra and weighs you down;
Where’s your packing list?
The first thing that you need to do is have a list ready. When you have everything on paper, your mind is less cluttered and you’re all sorted about the things you need to take with you. It also makes sure that you won’t forget anything that’s needed.
Do you know about the 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule?
Want to keep your luggage light? Well, the 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule is the perfect solution to any confusion about this. The rule says to carry one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottom wears, four upper wears, five pairs of socks, and six pairs of innerwear. This list should work out for even a longer trip because later you can repeat the clothes.
Besides this, throw in other very essential extras like rainwear, swimwear, warm clothes, etc., depending on the need of your trip.
Have you checked the Airline’s baggage policies?
Before you travel, it is important to familiarise yourself with the airline’s baggage policies. Each airline has restrictions on the size and weight of luggage allowed on board. It is important to know these restrictions so that you do not end up with an oversized or overweight suitcase.
Do you think you can ditch the liquids and try solid toiletries?
There are tons of solid options for shampoos, soaps, and even toothpaste. Not only can these save space and weight, but it removes the hassle of taking your liquids out when you go through security. You also have the option of buying toiletries when you arrive at your destination.
Have you ever tried to roll your clothes and use packing cubes?
Rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle. Squeeze smaller rolled items into the space around larger items. Packing cubes can also help compress your items so they take up less space, and they keep everything in your bag organized so you can quickly find what you need.
For example; Roll up your socks and underwear and place them inside your shoes and if things are really tight, put clothes in a gallon zip-lock bags and suck all the air out of them. It works!
Tried wearing heavy items on the plane?
Wearing your heaviest and bulkiest items can free up a huge amount of space and weight in your bag. You can show up wearing a couple of sweaters or even double pants if you need to. Once you’re on the plane, you can take off whatever you want and put it in the overhead bin or under your seat. Well, they may weigh your bag but they won’t weigh you.
Finally, buy the right bag because more than half the time the bag itself is too big or too heavy weigh your bag before going to the airport to avoid sad stories.
Do you have any question or comment? Do share with us in the comment section.