If you want to avoid expensive baggage fees at the airport, but do not wish to ship your luggage to your final destination, you must travel with only a carry-on bag. This might seem easy to do, but size and weight restrictions are in place by nearly every airline. To comply with these regulations and skip the baggage fees, follow these tips.
Know the Size and Weight Restrictions
Most airlines have a size limit of 45 linear inches for carry-on luggage. That is the length, plus the width, plus the height of the bag. This means that your entire bag, including wheels and handles, cannot exceed these measurements. If it does, you will be required to check your bag and pay the fees.
Weight limits vary for each airline. American Airlines has a carry-on weight limit of 50 pounds. Delta has no weight restrictions unless you are traveling to South Korea, Singapore, or China. Before you choose a bag for your carry-on, be sure to check your airline’s carry-on bag requirements.
Pack Light, Very Light
When you choose to travel with carry-on luggage, the simple fact is that you cannot bring everything you might need with you. While clothing is certainly a necessity, pack the bare minimum, and coordinate outfits that can be mixed and matched.
Unless you require some special toiletries because of an allergy, leave them at home. Toiletries will add unnecessary weight to your bag and may exceed TSA’s liquid allowances. Purchase your toiletries when you land and discard them before you return home.
Make Use of Your Personal Item Allowance
Another great way to keep your carry-on lighter in weight is to make good use of your personal item allowance. Almost all airlines will allow you to have one carry-on plus a personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or backpack.
Pack your electronics, such as tablets, laptops, and e-readers in your personal item bag. You should also keep valuables and identification papers in this bag as well.
Be sure that your personal item bag is smaller than your carry-on luggage. Your personal bag must be able to fit under your seat when you board the plane.