subject: Save money on your flight with lightweight luggage [print this page] Save money on your flight with lightweight luggage
Flying is one of the most expensive ways to travel. However, it is necessary for a lot of trips if you want to reach your destination in a timely fashion. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on flights. One of the best ways is to choose the right luggage.
First of all, you need to know about the baggage regulations on your airline of choice. Some airlines offer the first two bags checked for free, while others charge for every bag. In addition, regulations differ with regard to how much the bag is allowed to weigh before it incurs an added charge. Finally, the size of the overhead luggage bins sometimes differs based on the aircraft used and the class of ticket you purchase.
Once you have this information, you can pack your luggage accordingly. Regardless of the regulations, it helps to purchase lightweight luggage so that you can pack heavier items without reaching the weight limit. In addition, lightweight luggage is easier to carry and manoeuvre. If you are going to be carrying more than one bag, distribute your heavier items among your suitcases. Unfortunately, an airline will still charge you for extra weight in one suitcase even if your others are significantly under the allotted weight.
Weigh all of your bags before you head to the airport, and try to make sure your scale is fairly accurate. If at all possible, keep them a pound or two under the airline's weight limit. The scales will probably not be perfect even at the airport, and there is nothing worse than finding out your bags are 1/2 a pound too heavy. You will have no choice but to pay the fees, or leave some nonessentials behind.
Choose items for your carry-on luggage wisely. If you have soft-sided luggage, you don't want to pack it with anything that will dramatically change the shape of the bag, as it may not fit into the overhead container. Find out the dimensions of the overhead container in advance as well, and make sure your bag will fit comfortably within them. You can find this information by checking the airline's website or calling customer service directly. Finally, make sure that the items you put in your carry-on meet all of the necessary requirements for cabin luggage. It won't cost you any more money if they don't, but you will have to discard them at security.
Though flying is one of the most convenient forms of travel, it can be quite costly. If you choose lightweight bags and pack them carefully, however, you can avoid unnecessary expense and make the trip run more smoothly. All of the weight limits and dimensions information you need can be found on your airline's website, or you can call the airline directly and speak to a customer service representative.
