Baggage fees, especially for extra or overweight luggage can quickly inflate your travel budget if you don’t carefully calculate your baggage allowance. Here are effective ways to save on baggage costs, whether you're flying domestically or internationally, without sacrificing comfort.
Understand the Airline’s Baggage Policy
Before you start packing, make sure you’ve checked the airline’s baggage allowance: whether your ticket includes checked baggage, how many kilograms are allowed, and how much the excess fee is per kilogram. Often, “cheap” tickets exclude checked baggage—if you’re not careful, the add-on fees can end up more expensive than the ticket itself.
Add Extra Baggage During Booking, Not at the Airport
If you need to carry more than your free baggage allowance, it’s better to purchase additional baggage directly during the ticket booking process. Many airlines offer cheaper rates compared to buying it at the check-in counter. Doing this early also helps you avoid queues or sudden extra charges at the airport.
Pack Smart & Maximize Your Cabin Allowance
Try to bring only what you really need. Pack light, choose clothes that can be mixed and matched, and adjust your essentials based on the length of your trip. Make the most of your cabin baggage allowance—many airlines allow one cabin bag plus one small personal item, which is usually enough to carry important items such as documents, gadgets, and medication.
Weigh & Check Your Baggage Size Before Departure
Use a portable luggage scale or a home scale to make sure your suitcase isn’t overweight. If it exceeds the limit, you still have time to rearrange items—move some to your cabin bag or remove non-essential items. Besides weight, check the size too; oversized luggage can be charged extra even if it meets the weight requirement.
Bring Lightweight Luggage or a Multifunctional Bag
Sometimes the suitcase itself is already heavy when empty, especially older or thick-material models. Choose a lightweight suitcase or backpack so you have extra weight allowance for your belongings without exceeding the limit.
Consider Sharing Baggage Space with Friends or Travel Companions
If you're traveling with friends or family, consider distributing items across bags. For example, use one suitcase for clothes and another for heavier items, as long as the baggage allowance permits. This method often helps avoid overweight baggage for a single passenger.
