Find Cheap Airfares - Tips and information on discount travel

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You used to be able to pack several pieces of luggage, check them at the counter, and slowly make your way to your gate. If you had something large, like skis, then you might have to take them somewhere else to check them in, but for the most part you probably didn’t think twice about your bags.

Oh, how times have changed.

Now, not only are you limited to the number of bags that you can take, but there are all sorts of fees associated with checking your luggage in as well. From overweight fees to extra baggage fees to the newest fees-luggage fees. Yes, now on most airlines you have to pay for the first piece of luggage as well, meaning that virtually nobody can get away scot free without paying something.

You might scoff at the idea of baggage being “expensive.” Still, remember that if it costs you $25 to check one suitcase and there are 3 people in your party, then you just paid $75 to check your bags. That’s $75 one way, or $150 round trip. That’s a cheap airline ticket in some cases.

So how can you avoid paying the expensive airport fees when it comes to your luggage?

There are basically only 2 ways of getting around paying the fees all together. One is to pack everything in a carry-on bag. Sound impossible? Well, if you’re only going to be gone for a couple of days, it might not be. Remember that you can take one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or briefcase.

Some women find that carrying the largest purse they can possibly find and stuffing it with small items works for them. For the carry-on bag, folding clothes well and only packing 1 extra pair of shoes can cut down on space. Another trick that is often used is placing clothing in large Ziploc baggies and squeezing the air out of them in order to make the items lay flat.
You can also avoid paying the fee on most airlines if you are an elite frequent flier or if you booked a business or first class seat.

If you have to check your bags, remember that if it is over 50 pounds you might get charged an additional $50. If it’s over 100 pounds, they might not take it at all. This takes some creativity on your part.

Weighing your bags before you leave your house is one way to ensure that your bags are not over-limit. Make sure that your luggage is not already heavy before you even put anything into it. A lot of suitcases are nice, but weigh 15 pounds before you even pack them.

If you have anything heavy, and this includes on your return trip after you’ve bought souvenirs, then pack them in your carry-on bag. If you need to take boots with you or heavy shoes, or even a heavy coat, then wear them on the plane. You won’t believe how much weight this will save. Also, consider buying travel-sized versions of shampoo, saline, conditioner, and moisturizer or purchase these when you arrive. If more than half of the item has been used on your trip, then toss them before boarding the plane so that the extra weight will not be added.

In addition, if you’re on vacation and you purchase some souvenirs that could bring your weight limit up, then consider mailing them home. The price difference might work in your favor.

Lastly, paying the fees in advance over the internet might not let you get your bags in for free, but it can save you money. Some airlines are charging $5 more if you pay the checked luggage fee at the airport itself.