You’ve bagged a great deal on flights — the last thing you want is to hand it all back at the check-in desk in excess baggage fees. A little planning before you travel can save you a real headache (and a real bill) on the day. Here are 10 tried-and-tested tips to help you avoid paying excess baggage fees for overweight luggage.
#1. Check Exactly What You’re Allowed
Before you pack a single thing, check what’s included in your ticket for both checked bags and carry-on. Allowances and dimensions vary a lot between airlines, so don’t assume your usual case will be fine. If you think you might go over, many airlines let you pre-book extra baggage online in advance — this is almost always cheaper than paying for excess weight at the airport on the day.
#2. Weigh Your Bags
A cheap set of portable luggage scales is one of the best travel investments you can make. Weigh every bag before you leave home, and again before you travel home, so there are no surprises at check-in.
#3. Buy Small Bottles of Toiletries
Travel-size toiletries help keep your case weight down, and you can always pick up more once you arrive. If they’re under the liquid limit for hand luggage, you may even be able to fit some into your carry-on instead of your case.
#4. Use Your Carry-on Bag Wisely
Shift heavier items into your carry-on where you can — books, chargers, shoes — but keep an eye on the carry-on allowance too, as some airlines will weigh a bag they think looks over the limit.
#5. Consider an E-Reader Instead of Traditional Books
If you love reading on holiday, a Kindle or similar e-reader can save a surprising amount of weight compared to packing several paperbacks. It’s a small swap that makes a real difference when you’re close to your limit.
You might enjoy reading 15 Best Apps for Kids when Travelling and Top Tips for Travelling With Toddlers.
#6. Check What’s Available at Your Destination
Many hotels, apartments and holiday homes supply basics like hairdryers, towels and sometimes even beach gear. Check before you pack so you’re not carrying things you don’t actually need.
#7. Buy Inexpensive Beach Towels at the Destination
Rather than packing bulky beach towels, consider picking up inexpensive ones once you arrive. You can leave them behind at the end of the trip instead of hauling them home.
#8. Invest in Lighter Luggage
If you travel often, lighter luggage is worth the investment. Even a kilo saved on the case itself means a kilo more available for clothes and belongings.
#9. Cut Down What You’re Bringing
Lay out everything you’re planning to pack, then try removing about half and see if you can still manage. Most destinations have somewhere to wash clothes if you run short, so you often need far less than you think.
#10. Use Vacuum Seal Bags
Vacuum seal bags compress clothes and soft items down significantly, freeing up space in your case — and sometimes letting you fit a few extra bits into your carry-on instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out my airline’s exact baggage allowance?
Check your airline’s website or your booking confirmation, as allowances and dimensions differ between airlines and even between ticket types. It’s worth checking again close to travel, in case anything has changed since you booked.
Is it cheaper to pre-book extra baggage or pay at the airport?
Pre-booking extra baggage online in advance is generally far cheaper than paying for excess weight at check-in on the day, so it’s worth sorting out before you travel if you suspect you’ll go over.
What’s the easiest way to avoid overweight bags on the way home?
Weigh your luggage before you travel out and leave a little headroom, since most families pick up extra bits — souvenirs, shoes, holiday finds — that add weight for the return journey.
Are carry-on bags weighed as strictly as checked bags?
It varies by airline. Some rarely check carry-on weight, while others will weigh a bag at the gate if it looks heavy, so it’s safest to stay within the stated limit rather than relying on it not being checked.
Related Articles
- 15 Best Apps for Kids when Travelling
- Top Tips for Travelling With Toddlers
- Family Travel: Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Trip
Save These Tips for Your Next Trip
Not flying just yet? Save this article or browse our other family travel tips so you’re ready to pack smart next time you book a trip.
Never Miss Our Family Travel Tips
Want more practical travel tips like these, straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free newsletter for weekly ideas, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more family travel advice.
