Say goodbye fashionistas, the days of packing a different outfit for every day of your vacation are over. Caught between a sagging economy and rising fuel prices, most airlines have started charging a checked-baggage fee to increase revenue. The charges and rules vary with each airline causing traveler confusion and frustration.
“I always check the airline prior to my clients leaving to see if there have been any changes in baggage fees,” said Frani Hahn, owner of Francesca & Co. Travel in Baltimore. “So far, Southwest, Continental and Delta are the only major domestic airlines that are not enforcing a fee.”
And while most travelers own a carry-on bag for short trips, often they don’t see an alternative for longer trips but to fork over the extra $15 each way for a checked bag — or even a further $25 for a second bag — in order to handle their packing needs.
One way to avoid fees is to only use your carry-on.
“Just about anyone can carry-on and still bring everything they need for a great vacation,” said Nancy Bestor, owner of Travel Essentials, a luggage and travel accessory company. “You just have to be smart about it. Do you really need your curling iron? Usually, the answer is no.”
Thoughtful packing can leave more room in your suitcase. “We always tend to overpack, so I suggest packing your suitcase and then take half out,” said Hahn. “If you just pack a few mix-and-match outfits you won’t even need a checked bag.”
Diehard clothes horses who find it difficult to commit to one or two outfits may opt to pay the airlines’ fees or use the services of luggage transport companies who offer door-to-door transport for suitcases and sports gear.
“Travelers’ patience has been pushed to the limits, and they’re looking for alternative methods of transporting luggage while still not breaking the bank,” said Todd Kempinger, CEO of The Luggage Club.
Experts do agree though that when it comes to packing, less is more.
Bestor advised, “If you want to get away from it all, don’t take it with you.”
On the Net
www.francesatravel.com
www.travelessentials.com
www.theluggageclub.com
