Passengers flying with popular airlines such as Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair, and TUI could face fees of up to £125 at the airport, according to a luggage specialist. With the peak summer holiday season approaching, travellers are being urged to pack smarter to avoid extra charges.
Hand Luggage Only Trend
More Britons are opting for hand luggage only to save time and money. However, many still incur fees for oversized cabin bags or overweight cases. Charges can reach £60 at the gate or £65 for exceeding hold luggage limits, totalling £125.
Expert Advice from IT Luggage
Nick Gaskin, Sales and Marketing Director at IT Luggage, offers practical guidance to help travellers pack efficiently. He emphasises that packing well is about travelling smarter, not fitting more in.
- Essentials Kit: Assemble a compact kit with underwear, key toiletries (respecting liquid limits), medication, and a charger. This acts as a safety net for delays or lost luggage.
- Spare Outfit: Pack one complete outfit using crease-resistant fabrics to stay comfortable if plans change or bags go missing.
- Boarding Pass Backup: Keep a screenshot or printed copy of your boarding pass to avoid issues with technology failures.
- In-Flight Essentials: Place items like headphones, snacks, and lip balm in a small pouch under the seat for easy access.
Packing for Extended Trips
For longer trips or checked luggage, organisation is key. Nick recommends packing by outfit rather than by item to prevent overpacking and ensure coordinated looks.
- Weigh as You Go: Use packing cubes and weigh each cube individually to manage weight and avoid excess baggage fees.
- Shoe Placement: Arrange shoes heel-to-toe around the suitcase perimeter and stuff them with socks or small items to save space.
- Separate Clean and Worn Clothes: Use a lightweight laundry bag to keep worn clothes contained and maintain freshness.
- Combine Rolling and Folding: Roll softer items like T-shirts to save space, and fold structured garments like jackets to reduce creasing.
- Photograph Your Suitcase: Take a quick photo of your packed suitcase to support insurance claims if luggage is lost and as a packing reminder.
By following these tips, travellers can avoid hefty fees and enjoy a stress-free journey.
