Packing to go on holiday can often be a stressful task as you try to cram everything into your case and stay within the baggage restrictions.
But one expert has now revealed there is one thing you can ask for that can avoid having to pay £100 to check a bag in. That is, according to SkyScanner, the average price to check in a bag, with some airlines charging even more.
Now Luggage shipping experts at My Baggage have revealed five ways you can avoid paying for a bag. Tips range from knowing the bag limits, to a simple request that can get more space for your hand luggage.
Ask for a bag at duty free
Asking for a bag in duty-free is an easy to free up some space in your luggage. And most airlines allow you to bring it on alongside your carry-on for no extra charge, something most people don’t take advantage of.
If you find yourself with a few extra items that won’t fit in your carry-on, ask for a carrier bag in one of the duty-free shops after going through security and place your extra items inside. This will allow you to take them on your flight without having to pay extra.
While it is essential to double check the policies of your airline, this trick could save you paying extra baggage fees even if your luggage doesn’t quite fit in your carry-on.
Bring a pillow with you
Most airlines, including the likes of Wizz Air, Jet2 and EasyJet, permit passengers to bring neck cushions along with their carry-on luggage without any additional charges. To maximise this benefit, you can take out the cushion from its cover and stuff it with items such as bikinis, rolled up t-shirts, and other small articles to create more room in your carry-on bag.
This clever hack allows you to pack more without incurring extra costs, but it’s crucial to verify the rules regarding carrying cushions with your specific airline to avoid unexpected charges. While most airlines are fine with it, Ryanair doesn’t officially allow it.
Pick your airport outfit wisely
Another nifty tip is to don your bulkiest items during the flight, be it a coat, boots, headphones, or any other larger items. If you’re in a bind, layering up can also let you bring more clothes with you, as airlines don’t slap charges on anything you’re wearing.
While this might not be the cosiest way to travel, it’s a handy solution when you’re struggling to squeeze everything into your carry-on, and you can always peel off some layers once you’re comfortably seated on the plane.
Ditch the toiletries
Shampoo, deodorant and other toiletries can take up a lot of room in your carry-on bag, not to mention the restrictions on how much you can bring through security.
Instead of packing these items, think about buying them at the airport after you’ve cleared security. This way, you can bring them onto the plane in a duty-free bag.
Alternatively, it might be more cost-effective to buy toiletries when you get to your destination, depending on where you’re headed. You can check these prices online before you set off.
Pack smart
The secret to travelling with just a carry-on is learning to pack cleverly. Make a list of essentials to avoid bringing unnecessary items.
You can create extra space in your bag by using things like vacuum roll bags. These bags let you remove excess air by simply rolling them, significantly cutting down the amount of space your clothes occupy.
It’s also crucial to consider the carry-on size limit for the specific airline you’re flying with. By taking the maximum size allowed, you can make the most of your carry-on allowance.
Ryanair allows a cabin bag of up to 40x20x25cm, similar to Wizz Air’s allowance of 40x20x30cm, while EasyJet allows 45x36x20cm and Jet2 allows 56x45x25cm.
Paul Stewart, from My Baggage, said: “Sticking to a carry-on not only saves you money, but also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim and eliminates the risk of lost luggage. By following these tips, you can make the most out of your carry-on allowance, keeping costs down without packing anything less than you need.”