We will write a guide on tips to avoid paying for hand luggage for your next trip.
Traveling light and avoiding fees for hand luggage can save you money and simplify your journey. Here are some tips to help you avoid paying for hand luggage.
Read here Best eSim for International Travel and Best Travel Insurance Comparison
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Tips To Avoid Paying For Hand Luggage
1. Choose Airlines with Free Hand Luggage Allowance
Research Airlines: Before booking, research airlines that include free hand luggage in their fare. Low-cost carriers often charge for hand luggage, while traditional airlines may include it in the ticket price.
Fare Classes: Some airlines offer different fare classes that include hand luggage. Check if paying slightly more for a fare that includes hand luggage is cheaper than paying for it separately.
2. Know the Luggage Policies
Size and Weight Limits: Familiarize yourself with the airline’s size and weight limits for hand luggage. Make sure your bag complies with these restrictions to avoid surprise fees at the airport.
Personal Item: Most airlines allow a personal item (e.g., a handbag, laptop bag) in addition to your hand luggage. Make use of this allowance to carry more items without additional fees.
3. Pack Smart
Minimalist Packing: Pack only the essentials. Use packing cubes to organize and compress your items, maximizing space in your bag.
Wear Bulky Items: Wear your heaviest and bulkiest clothing and shoes on the plane to free up space in your hand luggage.
Layering: Choose versatile clothing that can be layered, allowing you to pack fewer items while still being prepared for different weather conditions.
Read Here How to pack for traveling
4. Use Lightweight and Compact Bags
Compact Bag: Choose a lightweight, compact bag that fits the airline’s size requirements. Bags with multiple compartments can help you organize your items more efficiently.
Foldable Bags: Consider a foldable bag that can be easily packed away in your main luggage if you’re traveling with both checked and hand luggage.
5. Take Advantage of Duty-Free Allowances
Duty-Free Shopping: Many airports allow you to carry duty-free items in addition to your hand luggage. Use this allowance to carry extra items, but be mindful of weight and space limitations.
6. Check for Promotional Offers
Airline Promotions: Some airlines offer promotions or discounts on baggage fees. Keep an eye out for these deals when booking your flight.
Frequent Flyer Programs: Join frequent flyer programs that offer benefits such as free hand luggage allowances or discounted baggage fees.
7. Optimize Personal Item Space
Maximize Your Personal Item: Use a backpack or large tote as your personal item to carry more belongings. Ensure it fits under the seat in front of you.
Multiple Pockets: Choose a personal item with multiple pockets to organize your essentials and maximize space.
8. Use Bag Weighing Tools
Portable Scale: Carry a portable luggage scale to ensure your bag is within the airline’s weight limit. This can help you avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
9. Be Prepared for Check-In
Early Check-In: Check in online early to secure your spot for carrying hand luggage on board, as some airlines have limited overhead bin space.
Gate Check: If the airline offers free gate check for hand luggage due to full overhead bins, take advantage of this to avoid paying fees.
10. Know Your Rights
EU Regulations: If traveling within or from the EU, be aware that EU regulations allow you to carry items purchased at the airport after security through to your destination without additional charges.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.