A frequent flyer has shared a simple yet effective hack to avoid paying extra baggage fees at the airport, costing just 30 pence. The trick involves using a plastic bag from WHSmith to carry additional toiletries through security and onto the plane, potentially saving travelers a fortune in checked luggage costs.
The Hack Explained
TikTok user Siani, who posts as @sianitravels, revealed the method in a video responding to a follower's question about fitting toiletries. She explained that after passing through security, travelers should visit a duty-free store such as WHSmith. The key is to purchase a plastic bag, which at WHSmith costs around 30p, and then transfer any extra items that couldn't fit in the hand luggage into that bag.
According to Siani, the rationale is that airlines typically allow one duty-free bag in addition to carry-on luggage. By folding up the original spare bag and placing it inside the WHSmith bag, travelers can effectively increase their carry-on capacity without incurring extra charges. She joked, "Bish, bash, bosh."
Risks and Caveats
While the hack has gained traction online, some commenters pointed out potential pitfalls. One person noted that duty-free bags are intended for items purchased at the airport, and if the contents clearly weren't just bought, airlines could still charge. However, Siani and others argued that airport staff rarely inspect duty-free bags to verify purchases.
Another concern raised was the security seal on duty-free bags. A commenter questioned whether the bag needed to be sealed, but another clarified that this only applies to alcohol purchases, as passengers are prohibited from consuming their own duty-free alcohol on the plane.
An airport worker warned: "If you have too many bags, even from duty-free, they can deny you boarding unless you leave your duty-free shopping behind if there's no space in the overhead bins. I've seen it happen a few times." A traveler also shared that she had been made to put her duty-free purchases into her hand luggage on two occasions, advising caution.
Conclusion
Despite the risks, the hack has proven successful for Siani and many others. It offers a low-cost solution for travelers struggling to fit all their belongings into strict carry-on limits, especially for longer trips requiring multiple outfits, swimwear, and toiletries. As airlines continue to tighten baggage policies, such creative workarounds remain popular among frequent flyers.
