Weighing up what to take on your travels can ultimately be a money-saver Given that most airlines are happy to charge for even the slightest excess, here are a number of tips that will kick excess fees into touch.
Luggage options
Travellers can reach the goal of stepping off a plane and straight into a waiting taxi by packing lighter and smarter. This lends weight to thinking about actual luggage pieces when they're empty. If they're heavy and cumbersome, look at lightweight luggage options that will enable you to pack if need be.
Weigh before you go
If you are struggling to contain your suitcase, then that'll be a one-way ticket to extra fees. The best option is to pack a few days before you go, invest in portable luggage scales, and find out how much your baggage is. Then empty your suitcase, start again by re-packing just the essentials, and strip out unnecessary clothes and shoes. By packing smarter, you will have a better chance of avoiding extra fees.
Pack with a partner
When travelling with a colleague or partner, if there's a risk of being overweight, consider pooling your baggage and spreading the weight across both of you. By doing so, you will help spread the 40 kg limit for two people.
Utilize hand luggage
One of the underused options for avoiding excess luggage is the hand luggage you take on the plane. If you can, consider flying with an airline with excellent hand luggage allowances that will help you minimize extra luggage fees.
Source extra luggage fees online
As a precaution, take the shock factor out of the system by researching online how much you can take on a flight and the extra baggage fees. By being forewarned, you are forearmed when you head to check in.
Pay online
If you're resigned to carrying excess baggage, it may serve you best to pay for extra luggage. You can buy extra weight online via the airline, usually with discounts compared to what you pay at the airport. If you're flying a budget airline, be clear on what you are paying for.
Upgrade
Another way of avoiding excess fees and if the budget allows, upgrade to first or business class. Rather than give it to the airline in fees, why not spend it on yourself and, in doing so, fly in luxury and comfort? Check if the airline offers free luggage before you commit.
Andy Probert is an independent journalist based in Turkey. He writes about travel, aviation, new tech and business. His work has appeared on the BBC, in The Daily Telegraph, Hurriyet Daily News and other newspapers worldwide.
