When flying, it’s next to impossible to avoid getting hit with additional fees–from fuel surcharges to alcoholic beverages. This is most apparent when it comes time to load your luggage. Whether you plan on carrying or checking your bag, airlines have numerous specifications that your luggage must meet, and failure to do so results in costly charges. Such baggage fees can range from a standard $15 to over $50. But when you plan ahead and pack efficiently, you can keep these fees to a minimum, or avoid them all together.
The traditional way to avoid baggage fees is to carry-on your bag, but charges for checking luggage has more and more flyers bringing their bags on board. Thus, airlines are very scrupulous about what makes it into the cabin. To bypass fees on your carry-on plan ahead. For instance, when booking your flight, consider the middle seat since it typically has the most room underneath; perfect for a duffel bag or small suitcase. Also, find out the dimensions of your airline’s carry-on bag limits and pack accordingly.
Most airlines will charge you a standard baggage fee for checking your luggage. However, review airline exemptions as some will check one bag for free for all first- and business-class fliers. Packing is also important for checked bags because of weight limits–usually 50 pounds–that can lead to more baggage fees. A helpful way to avoid going over the weight limit is to use a small bag so that you don’t over pack, and one that is light and won’t add more weight.
