8 travel tips to help you avoid excess baggage fees
Today, it's not enough to just buy a flight ticket to travel comfortably and on your terms. It is worth paying attention to fees and commissions, which include the choice of a certain seat or the availability of an onboard menu.
In addition, the most unpleasant expense is paying for excess baggage. Travel + Leisure found out how to pack your luggage correctly and what ways will help you to spend more than the airline allows.
Flight with Southwest Airlines
This American airline carries out transportation without pre-selection of the desired seat on the plane, offering free transportation of up to two pieces of checked baggage per person in return.
Earn elite status with the airline
Passengers with elite status can often receive certain privileges, including free baggage check-in. Each company offers its own offers for such customers, but you will need to spend a lot of money to get this status.
Airline credit cards
If obtaining VIP status does not suit you, there is an option that involves applying for an airline credit card. Companies that offer this option usually provide their customers with a certain list of benefits, including those related to baggage transportation. However, even in this case, it should be borne in mind that the holders of such cards may have to pay an annual fee, which may be as high as $100. In addition, when applying for such a card, you should find out what benefits the card provides and whether it can cover your companions' luggage.
Credit card for travelling
This is the way to go for those who don't want to be limited to just one airline. A general travel card offers Priority Pass membership for access to lounges, the ability to transfer miles to partner airlines and hotels, and travel credits that also allow you to pay for your luggage. However, they also have annual fees, the cost of which can vary depending on the bank.
Booking a premium class ticket
As a rule, premium class tickets include the transportation of checked baggage. This means you will have to pay more, but you can get more space, meals, and priority check-in and boarding in return.
Checking your baggage at the gate
You can check in your baggage for free when flights are particularly crowded. In this case, passengers waiting to board may be offered to check their luggage to their final destination without paying. This is done to free up space in the overhead bins. However, your luggage must be packed in your hand luggage. This option is suitable for those who are satisfied with such packing. In any case, it is better to clarify these points with the agent at the gate.
Pay for your United baggage allowance
United Airlines offers a baggage subscription plan. It costs from $349 per year, but this price includes checking in one oversized suitcase for flights within the continental United States. In addition, this subscription allows you to cover transportation for up to 8 passengers in a reservation, increase the limit to 2 standard suitcases per traveller, and add additional destinations both in the region and around the world. However, before signing up, you should consider how often and where you fly to make sure you don't make the wrong choice.
Weigh your suitcase at home before you travel
Everyone should do this procedure without exception. This way, you will know exactly how much your luggage actually weighs and adjust its contents if possible. However, even if you don't have to pay for oversized baggage, you won't be able to avoid paying the standard fare.