I have not travelled internationally in twenty years, but am planning to do so in the near future (NYC to Europe). I was wondering what the standard baggage fees and allowance are these days (approximately). I recall years ago they allowed huge and heavy luggage and it was not extra, from what I recall. I know it varies now by weight and size, but just wanted a general idea so I can plan accordingly. Thanks |
Depends on the airline, the kind of ticket etc...but typically 1-2 bags free if below a certain size/weight. You'll have to look it up. |
We're often bumping up against the weight limit. After having to open a suitcase and find room in already-full backpacks for stuff, I bought and travel with a small hand scale. I can be right at that 50-pound limit and breathe easier.
I haven't had size issues, but have found that by the time your bag is too big, it'd be way too heavy. We have a giant suitcase we never use on flights - for that reason. I haven't checked lately, but I think most airlines allow you one free bag to Europe so long as you're in regular economy (not basic). We're headed to Mexico next week, and it's $35 each way. |
Good lord, how much crap do you being? I’ve never even gotten close to the 50 lb mark. |
NP. If I feel the need to check a bag, I’m usually at just under 50 as well. We have a few hand held scales and usually pack one to make sure we are okay heading back as well. Often times we check one bah for the two of us, especially if it’s a beach trip with snorkeling gear etc. |
Ah. One bag for two people makes sense. |
Family of four, traveling for an extended stay at one location. It's super-easy to reach 50 pounds. It it's just me, I'm in a carryon. |
Every airline has different limits for baggage allowance/fees. Go to the airline's website and they should provide that info somewhere on their website.
For example, Icelandair and TAP Portugal both have different measurements for carry-ons and fees for baggage, but both have the baggage allowance and fee structure on their respective websites. |
It really varies by ticket type you bought also.
Don't assume, look it up. |
Its easy to determine size/weight restrictions by the airline and class of ticket. I think its important to consider where you are going and what you will be doing. If you are visiting multiple locations, traveling by public transportation - a suitcase at the 50 pound limit is going to be exhausting to drag around with you. Perhaps you are staying with family - getting there by car - and are bringing gifts -then the 50 pound limit is easy to reach - but not much of an issue to deal with at your destination. There have been a ton of topics on packing light and carry-on only - easy to search if you want ideas. I would approach this first by determining my location, my activities and the airline I'm flying. We have small suitcases that would be pretty difficult to fill to the 50 pound limit - unless I was packing rocks or equipment. |
Rocks - it happens! For winter break, we're taking little kits for all the kids to use at the beach that contain rocks you have to "excavate" for. They are HEAVY. They will go in the carryon, along with the Nutribullet and other heavy items we're taking for our 2+ week trip. Light stuff, like sandals and life jackets, plus large liquids and knives go in the checked bag - so we don't exceed the weight limit. This is year four of the same trip, same location - so there is a plan and we know what we will actually use. Renting a car is expensive, so we get a shuttle to the condo. It's not a huge deal to move our bags this way. PP is right - what you pack is very much determined by your destination and how you will travel. We are discussing a Europe trip with multiple stops next summer - we will only have carryons. |
There is no standard anymore, even flagship European airlines have introduced what they call “basic economy” that basically includes a seat. So it depends on airline, booking class, and so on. Read carefully what you book. |