Size and weight – restrictions
If you’re flying, check the size and weight restrictions for your checked and carry-on baggage and make sure you stay within these. Many airlines now enforce an excess baggage charge, especially if the plane is full, which can end up being quite expensive.
Tip: if you’re buying a new suitcase, check the weight before you purchase – it can often add extra kilos that you’d rather have for your clothes.
How much to take?
Can you get by with just hand luggage? Many airlines (for example Jetstar, RyanAir or Easyjet) charge extra for checked baggage – so if you can get away with wearing that shirt for another day, or you’re staying in a hostel where there’s a laundry, it’s worth considering whether you really need a suitcase as well as hand luggage. Luggage Limits has a great online tool which will give you the weight and number of bags for many major airlines.
Travelling with bulky baggage
If you’re planning on taking your golf clubs or surfboard with you, check the airline’s policy on bulky baggage – most baggage that is not suitcase shaped and sized has particular requirements and restrictions. Also, many airlines have special requirements for packing bicycles that you’ll need to follow if you want to take your bike.
Suitcase or backpack?
Choosing a suitcase or a backpack will depend on the type of trip you’re planning and how much you plan to take. However, if you’re planning on staying in budget accommodation, remember that often pensiones or hostels and suitcases do not mix as many of them do not have lifts – so you’ll have to lug your suitcase upstairs!
Security
If you’re concerned about security, many airports have baggage wrapping services that will prevent your baggage being opened while you’re in transit. Even if your bag is wrapped, it’s still a good idea to carry valuables such as laptops or cameras with you on board.
Never carry bags for someone you don’t know, or leave your baggage unattended. If the bag you are carrying is inspected and found to have illegal goods, you will be liable for them no matter whose bag it is.
Also, make sure that your travel documents – passport and visa – are secure. Top Tips for Travel suggests you leave a photocopy of your visa and passport identification page with someone you trust at home, as well as taking a copy with you. Others suggest that you also carry them in a zipped up pocket at the front of your clothing, or zip them in your handbag with the strap looped over your opposite shoulder. If the hotel requires your passport, make sure you have a copy and get the original back as soon as you can.
Places to leave your bags after you check out
Most hotels will keep your bags for you after you check out for the day if you’re planning on staying in the area. Some train stations also have lockers where you can leave your baggage. Research this before you go and you can save yourself a lot of effort and time.
Identifying your bag
Many bags look alike so tying something distinctive such as a coloured ribbon on the handle can help make sure you pick up the correct one from the baggage carousel. Also, put your name and contact information inside and on the outside of your bag.
Lost bags
Report a lost bag immediately to the airline or travel company that should have delivered it. Keep your bag tags and any identifying paperwork to make sure your bag can be tracked. It’s a good idea to pack an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bags just in case your bag is lost or delayed.
Baggage insurance – domestic and international.
You might want to consider taking out baggage insurance if you are travelling, either domestically or overseas. Baggage insurance can cover you for lost, stolen or damaged bags; you can read more about baggage insurance options here
Disclaimer
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