Pack Lighter - or Pay the Price!

Are you packing for airplane travel? If so, you need an update on airline checked baggage allowances. Recently, the airlines began diligently enforcing regulations that have been in existence for some time, and making big changes in the number of checked bags allowed per passenger. They are now charging fees for checking bags, and charging even more for overweight and oversized bags.

The Rules for Checked Baggage

Rules differ from one airline to another (and change dramatically for international travel) so it is always smart to check with each airline before traveling.

. Depending on your airline, you may be charged a fee for each checked bag. Some airlines still allow one bag to be checked for free, and Southwest Airlines does not charge any luggage fees.

. Checked bags may weigh no more than 50 pounds. If your bag weighs over 50 pounds you will be charged an “overweight bag” fee.

. Your checked bag may not exceed 62" (based on linear measurement of length + width + depth). If your bag is larger, you will be charged an “oversized bag” fee.

. No bag may weigh more than 70 pounds. Heavier bags will be rejected.

In addition, each passenger is allowed to carry on one bag not exceeding 45" linear inches, and one small personal item such as a purse or briefcase.

The Fees are Expen$ive

If you think you will simply pay the fee, here is an example of what over packing could cost. You arrive at the Detroit airport traveling to Florida for two weeks with two suitcases to check. If a piece is oversized and overweight, the additional charges are added together. This is one example:

First bag fee:	$15
*Second bag fee:*	$25
*Excess bag fee:*	$100 (in case you tried to check 3 bags!)
*Oversized bag fee:*	$175 (measures more than 62 linear inches; add length+width+height)
*Overweight bag fee:*	$125 (weighs more than 50 pounds)
Total excess baggage fees for *one way* (and you are traveling round trip!)	$440!

There Are Exceptions

Each airline has different rules for kid's gear (child safety seat, stroller), sports equipment (golfing, fishing, or skiing equipment), military bags, or mobility devices. Call or visit the airline's website to check in advance so you are not surprised at the airport.

The Solution: Plan Ahead

First, know the size of your bag. Before you begin packing, measure your bag to determine its linear dimensions. Be sure to include the handle and wheels in this measurement, just in case.

If your bag is oversized, consider packing into two smaller bags, which will be easier to lift and maneuver as you travel. This will actually cost you less as the overweight fee is so high, plus two smaller bags will fit into a car, guest room, or hotel room more easily than one very large bag.

Once you have packed, weigh your bag before leaving for the airport. Weighing it on your bathroom scale will give you an idea if your bag is over 50 pounds while you still have time to remove heavy items and leave them at home. Imagine how difficult this task will be at the airport check-in counter!

Taking Less Helps

Let's talk about packing lighter—the best solution to the problem. If many travelers can pack for two weeks in a small, 22" carry-on bag and feel well dressed, you can pare down a little. Here are five easy ways to pack less and pack lighter:

. Take versatile clothes you can wear several times. A blazer worn on the plane that can also be worn casually with jeans or dressed up for dinner is a good example. Another practical piece is a denim shirt that can be worn as a shirt or light jacket, or over sleepwear as a robe. A different outfit for every day is a travel luxury; it's best to mix and match a few versatile pieces.

. Pack around laundry stops. Seven changes of underwear will work for two weeks with a stop at a coin-operated laundry halfway through the trip. Or invest in high-tech underwear made of comfortable wicking fibers that can be washed in your hotel room; it will dry overnight. Pack only three pair (one to wear, one to wash, and a spare) and plan to do hand laundry.

. Choose thin items over thick. A turtleneck plus a cardigan sweater is warmer, more versatile, and packs smaller than a sweatshirt or bulky sweater.

. Pack only the cosmetics needed. Buy sample size cosmetics or transfer the amount needed to a small container. Cosmetics often represent half of the weight of a fully packed suitcase.

. Take only three pairs of shoes—wear one pair and pack two. Shoes are a very bulky item.

You have the choice to pack lighter or to pay the price. Take the advice of Carol Pucci, Seattle Times travel writer who asks, "Who ever goes anywhere wishing they had packed more?"