Planning a trip can be so exicting, booking your room, airline tickets and planning your itinerary until it is time to pack your baggage.  Each time you travel you gain alittle more experience in what to pack and how much.  Packing airline baggage is more of a headache than packing for a road trip.  With all the restraints today put on by the airlines like size and weight of your baggage, additional fees for checked baggage can be frustrating and costly.

Today Show – Following American Airlines Baggage




Airline baggage is purchased by the piece or an entire set consisting of 3 ,4 ,5 and even 6 different sizes.  Knowing the types of material that your airline baggage is made of can mean the difference of traveling once or several times with the same set.  Some baggage is made from a 1200D – 1800D  Polyester material which is the norm or a hardcase shell.  These are the best types to shop for.

Don’t Waste Your Money: Avoiding airline baggage fees



Before arriving at the airport remember to check out the airline regulations concerning airline baggage requirements and fees.  Another is one is Homeland Security Airline Baggage Rules which can be accessed online.  One of the main things that people forget about is locking their bags.  The airline may break your locks.  Another is the weight of each bag.  Usually they cannot exceed 50 lbs. in weight when traveling coach.  Don’t pack your paperwork, medications or any necessities that you must have in your airline baggage, place these items in your carry-on.  Airlines can misplace your baggage by not putting them on the correct flight.  If this happens it could take a day or two for your airline baggage to catch up to you.

You can make your trip enjoyable if you get off to the right start.

Southwest Airlines Baggage Loading/Boarding


Need a bag, get a bag at getabag.com

Airline-RegulationsEveryone knows when you’re planning a trip for business or pleasure you must know about TSA Regulations.  If you don’t, you need to learn what to expect as TSA tightened airport security since 9/11.  You must pass through a check point first then airport security where lines can be very long depending the time of the day.  Passengers can be prepared and the process made easier just knowing what items are allowed and which aren’t.  Checking out the TSA website is the best resource for current regulations and tips on clearing airport security.  Just taking a few simple steps before arriving at the airport can save all passengers and screeners alittle time and make the task less intimidating.

TSA Unveils New Regulations

 

 

First you should know to arrive at the airport atleast an hour or two beforeTSA-Regulations your scheduled flight. If you’re using aiport parking you need to allow time to catch a shuttle bus that will drop you off in front of your designated airline.  You then proceed to the check in counter for your airline.  Knowing inadvance which pieces of luggage will be checked and which will be a carry-on.  These check in counters can also involve alot of time in line depending on how many passengers are flying on that flight.

Packing Tips for Liquids 


Next you will continue to the airport security checkpoint where you will need your ID and boarding pass to enter into the airport screening checkpoint, this is another line where you could experience a wait time.  Don’t forget your passport if you’re traveling outside the United States. Once you approach the screening checkpoint you will need to do the following:

      •Remove your shoes and place them in a bin.  It’s good idea to wear shoes that can easily be slipped on and off.
      •Place any metal items like coins, keys, belts and watches in the small trays and place them in your bin.
      •Any purses or fanny packs must also be put in a bin for screening.
      •If you have a laptop bag, your laptop must be removed and placed in a bin.  The cables can remain in your bag.
      •Any liquids, gels or aerosols must be packed according to TSA Regulations

Airport Security Timesaver 

 

Once you have completed placing your items in bins to enter through the screening process you will be directed to walk through a large screener where if the machine beeps you must back up and check to see if you missed removing any metal objects from yourself.  Once you have successfully passed through the screener you will be able to collect your personal items from the belt.  This goes quickly so you want to make sure you pick up your items and maybe move to an area that is not congested to re-pack your items and put on your shoes.
 
AirlineYou want to make your travel experience as painless as possible.  Some people complain about the TSA Regulations takes alot of our time but on the other hand others see it as keeping passengers safe.

 

 

Need a bag, get a bag at getabag.com

AirlineDealing with new airline restrictions can be frustrating.  If you are flying for the first time you want to find out which items are allowed on a plane.  Many people may know of some restrictions but there are many that need more information when it comes to carry-ons, traveling with pets or unusual packages.  Since the terrorists attacks new airline restrictions were quickly added for air passengers.  This has made the lines at the airport and going through airport securtiy more time consuming. Having knowledge of what is allowed before arriving at the airport will not only save you the hassle of checking in but can make your trip more enjoyable.

BBB Shares New Airline Regulations

 

Several years ago it was much easier to travel by airplane, sizes of luggage was the only thing that really mattered.  Today it’s a different in so many ways.  They have made drastic changes in luggage regulations, space that your carry-on will take up, weight of your luggage and the items that you take on board.

Traveling on a Plane with Instruments


Traveling on a Plane with Instruments — powered by eHow.com

 

Most airlines permit only one carry-on and a personal item.  A carry-onAirline-Security cannot exceed 45 inches (length + width + heighth) and 40 lbs. in weight for some airlines.  You want to research this information for the airline by which you are traveling.  Your carry-on needs to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

 

 

 

Read more on baggage information for each airline:
     •American Airlines
     •United Airlines
     •Continental Airlines
     •Southwest Airlines
     •Northwest/Delta Airlines
     •US Airways
     •Jet Blue

How To Deal With The New Airline Baggage Rules 


 

 

Airline-Toiletry-RestrictionsMany passengers have been inconvenienced by airline restrictions especially with several hygiene ties.  These items are not banned, it depends how you store them in containers and tubes.  Some airlines have restrictions on the ounces for each item and how many.  It is always a good idea to carry these items in a clear bag whenever possible.

 

Here is a list of a few items that you are not allowed to take on an airplane
     •Mouthwash
     •Perfumes or colognes
     •Gel and spray deodorants
     •Shaving cream
     •Hair style gels
     •Make-up remover
     •Nail polish and nail polish removers
     •Liquid soaps
     •Gel shoe inserts
     •Bug spray
     •Cigarette lighters
     •Gel-based sports supplements
     •Other types of items having gel-like qualities

The airline restrictions may seem complicated, just do your research on what is required and what is allowed before boarding.  Many passengers would rather travel safely so they take the time to fully understand the restrictions before flying.

Need a bag, get a bag at getabag.com

Lightweight-LuggageTraveling lighter makes more sense than ever.  Today, many domestic airline mandates are charging additional fees for overweight luggage.  Most airlines have a weight limit of 50 lbs. before charging extra.  Many suitcases can weigh up to 20 lbs. when empty which does not leave you much weight to pack clothing and any travel accessories.  You may want to consider investing in travel lightweight luggage for every trip.

 

 

Tough Lightweight Luggage

 

You have to ask yourself if it is practical to use your oversized 30” suitcases or downsize to 29” or smaller.  Also you want to look for the lightweight luggage brands that specify lighweight.  If purchasing in a department store or online read the weight of each individual piece.  Alot of lighweigt luggage today is quality made and include better wheel systems.

When packing for your trip limit the pairs of shoes or sneakers.  These are much heavier than most types of clothing.  Instead of packing full sizes of toiletries, take travel sizes instead.  Packing a compact hair dryer will also save some weight.  If you take an iron, check with your hotel to see if one isHeys-USA-Ballistica-Lite-2-Rolling-Luggage supplied, this will also save room and weight.  Think small when packing, try to pack only what you need in your lightweight luggage.  You may also want to invest in a luggage scale.  Weighing your luggage before your trip and packing this you will also be able to weigh before traveling home.  Most people like to purchase souveniors, this will also add weight to your lightweight luggage.  If you do not take a carry on as a seperate item, take along a foldable tote bag or foldable duffel bag, they are lightweight for your suitcase and can be used for those souveniors when traveling home.  Now you have your carry-on for the trip home.

Case Logic Lightweight Luggage

 

Lightweight-Rolling-Laptop-Briefcase-OvernighterYou may want to research the best lightweight luggage recommendations that many websites have.  Some of the top manufacturers of lighweight luggage are:  Traveler’s Choice, Heys USA, Swiss Army, Travelpro.  Also understand the type of fabric, is it expandable and wheels or no wheels.  Having some knowledge on the different types of luggage will save you the frustration of choosing the wrong lightweight luggage when you travel.

 

 

Features of Luggage, Business Cases by Briggs & Riley

Need a bag, get a bag at getabag.com

To avoid unnecessary stress when traveling by air learn some facts aboutAirline-Baggage basic airline security rules and airline baggage charges.  These are posted by your airline or TSA (Transportation Security Administration) that you can locate online.  This can help reduce some passengers fears of flying.  Due to the numerous security threats, airlines have implemented many restrictions on what you can carry on a plane or pack in your airline baggage. Each country may have their own rules and restrictions for flying so always check for international airline baggage flight requirements and restrictions when traveling overseas.

Following American Airlines Baggage

 

Review airline and airport security policies before heading to the airport.  You want to review the sections that cover the following:
    •Items That Are Completely Banned
    •Items Allowed Only in Checked Baggage
    •Items That Are Allowed in Carry-on Bags and the Passenger Cabin
    •Things You Should Never Put in Checked Baggage
    •Restrictions on Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols in Carry On Baggage
    •Exemptions for Liquids, Gels and Aerosols
    •Special Rules on Batteries

Airline-Baggage-WeightBefore booking your flight compare any excess airline baggage charge also known as luggage fees.  Know the allowed size and weight by the airline you choose.  Consider using luggage that may be bright in color, this will help differentiate you bags from other passengers.  Remember to add a luggage tag on the outside and an adhesive tag inside with your personal information incase your luggage gets lost. 

 

 

Baggage Handlers 

 

Carry on baggage is coming into question more and more that one airline has decided to start charging a fee if it does not fit under the seat in front of you.  Compare the checked baggage fees vs the carry on baggage fee to see which would be less expensive if only traveling with one piece of luggage and a small personal item such as a purse, tote bag or fanny pack. 

Airlines to Charge for Carry-on Bags

 

Airline-Baggage-Check-InSave yourself the headache and stress by following the airline baggage guidelines before your travel begins.  It may also prevent you from going through the hassle of filing a complaint with the airline for damaged luggage.  No passenger wants to start their trip having an unpleasant experience. 

Need a bag, get a bag at getabag.com

When planning to fly for a vacation or business trip it is a good idea to check the airline regulations.  All airlines may not be the same.  This article will cover baggage requirements and animal carriers if you’re planning to fly with your pet.

Carry-Ons or Checked Baggage

Rolling_Duffel_Bag_with_SuitcaseWhen measuring your luggage, take the length + width + height = total inches.  The standard dimension that is allowed for a carry-on is 45 inches.  Some bags have an odd shape but may be within the total inches allowed but the airline may still reject that item.

When shopping for a duffel bag, suitcase or any type of carry-on beware that some stores may advertise these as carry-ons but when measured they are not what is accepted, sometimes they are larger.  Also measure your carry-on from the outside not the inside dimensions.  It is also a good idea to take your measurements when the bag is fully packed for your trip.  This will give you accurate measurements when the outside pockets are filled and if your luggage is expandable.  Measuring your luggage when it is empty to fully packed could add inches to your dimensions.

If you have ever taken a carry-on with you on the plane and try to stuff it in the overhead compartment and it doesn’t fit most chances are that it will not fit under the seat in front of you.  So before you fly always measure your carry-ons.  It is alot easier to check the bag when checking in for your flight than having the problem after you have boarded on the plane.

Did You Know

The space under the seats in front of you are not made the same.  SomeAirline Seats airlines have made this space smaller due to electronic devices that were installed.  Did you also know that the space under the aisle seat is smaller than the space under the wing seat, leaving the center seat with the most space.  The amount of space is due to the braces and frames of the seats.

It’ not a bad idea to take a smaller carry-on instead of a larger one, you won’t have the headache of trying to stuff the bag under the seat when it doesn’t fit and annoy the passenger in front of you. 

Most airlines will allow one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger.  The personal item which is allowed cannot be no more than 36 inches when you add the length + width + height so that it fits in an overhead bin or under the seat.  Carry-on items do not have extra charges, but the airlines are strict with these rules.  If you items are not allowed as carry-ons you will have to have these checked and most times they will incur extra charges.

Not all domestic and international carry-on policies are the same.  Even the weight limits vary depending on the size of the plane and where you may fly.  Remember to check with your airline.

Checked Baggage

Most of the checked baggage policies have changed and airlines are tighting up.  Most airlines are now restricting passengers to one piece of luggage weighing no more than 50 lbs.  Some airlines are even charging an extra fee for the first checked bagTravelers_Choice_Coleman_Ridge_Line_Luggage_Set

When booking in coach or first class the weight limit will vary.  When flying inside the US you will have a maxium weight allowance but flying international the weight limit will be different.  Make sure you know what is the maxium weight allowance traveling from one country to another.  

Any airline can charge an outragious amount for luggage being over weight.  Many luggage pieces may weight 10 – 20 lbs. depending on the size so always weigh your luggage once you are fully packed.  Purchasing a luggage scale to weigh your bag would be a good investment.  They are small enough to pack and take with you.  Most people buy souveniors to bring home to friends and family which could add to the weight on your return trip.  So pack being under weight before leaving and this will allow you for alittle extras on return home.

Airline Regulations for Pet Travel

Most airlines require you make a reservation when traveling with your pet.  There are only a certain number of pets allowed on a single flight.

Pet are allow on domestic flights within the 48 contiguous United States, Alaska, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and St. Croix.  From the U.S. to Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean provided the country of arrival permits entry.  Carry-on pets are NOT ALLOWED to/from Hawaii or Transatlantic/Transpacific or Central and South America.

Airlines have applicable charges for pets.  Certain guidelines must be followed to permit a pet when flying.

Pets are NOT allowed outside their carrier at any time during flight.

Pets may only travel upon payment of the applicable charges.
 
Pet Carrier Guidelines

The maximum size for cabin pet carriers is 19″ long x 13″ wide x 9″ high. Soft-sided pet carriers such as Sherpa bags may exceed these dimensions slightly because they are collapsible. Animals must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down in a natural position in the kennel. Soft-sided pet carriers are accepted as long as they are constructed of water-repellent, padded nylon with mesh ventilation on two or more sides.

A pet kennel counts as either a passenger’s one carry-on bag or personal item – a cabin pet charge still applies.

Number of Pets Allowed

Only one pet kennel per ticketed passenger may be accepted for travel in the cabin. The kennel may contain two (2) dogs or two (2) cats but they must be the same species, at least 8-weeks old, and the pet and container can weigh no more than 20 lbs. combined.

Pets Traveling As Checked Baggage

Checked pets do not need a reservation for most airlines. Participants of dog shows should be aware that capacity is sometimes reached and checked pets are accepted on a first come basis.

Pet_KennelKennels must be constructed of wood, metal, plastic or a similar material, leak-proof, escape proof and door must fasten securely and need ventilation on 2-sides in addition to the door. Kennels must also have a water container with outside access for filling, in case a delay occurs.  Collapsible Kennels (those which can fold down flat) can not be accepted due to the risk of collapse during transport.  The maximum weight of a checked pet and kennel (combined) cannot exceed 100 lbs.

Temperature Restrictions have been established by some airlines to ensure animals are not exposed to extreme heat or cold in the animal holding areas, terminal facilities, when moving the animals between terminal and aircraft or on an aircraft awaiting departure.

Always check with your airline for their regulations when flying with your pet.

Need a bag, get a bag at getabag.com

New Fee for No-Frills Airline