Luggage Tips

Will you be flying as part of your travel? Remember that the airlines limit the number and size of the carry-ons allowed. Some airlines are more strict than others on the size limitations, although this seems to be more the case on very full flights, or during the holidays when people carry lots of shopping bags loaded with wrapped presents.

When you go to the airport, the airlines supply their check-in counter areas with luggage sizers, which are metal frames in which you can "test" your bag. Place your bag inside the sizer; if it doesn't fit you are probably going to be asked to check your baggage. It is important for you to know what the size allowances are. The FAA only specifies a maximum total dimension of 45 inches. Each airline has slight differences. The maximum-allowable bag for Delta, Northwest and United Airlines are 9" x 14" x 22", while American limits its carry-ons to 9" x 13" x 23". Supposedly, this is the largest that will fit under your seat. Here is an easier way to remember the bag limit: 21" by 14 "by 7". Everything is in multiples of 7! Handy, huh?

Being forced to use the overhead has some disadvantages. If you board after others in your seating area some people may have taken up all the overhead room. Did you know that the overhead bin above you is not reserved to your seat? If your bag is heavy you may have to lift it up into the overhead bin; something difficult to do if you are not tall and FAA regulations apparently prohibit the flight attendants from lifting them for you as well. Having to retrieve your bag from the overhead also takes extra time if you need to leave the plane right away (e.g. for a tight connection). On the other hand, bags that fit under the seat can be used as an ottoman (especially for short-legged folks like me). If you have a little "flight bag" like I do (that includes ear plugs, eyeshade, etc.), you might want to take that out before you stash your bag in the overhead; your other option might be to use a travel pack with a zip-off daypack, so you can leave the daypack by your feet for easy access.

Most airlines limit you to two carry-ons. However, there are some items that are not counted toward your carry-on allowance. These include things such as umbrellas, cameras, and small purses. However, be aware that large hefty camera bags and purses do get counted as their own carry-ons, and not freebies.

If you are used to domestic travel in the US, you will be surprised that the airlines tend to be stricter about this carry-on limit on international flights. Apparently, carry-ons when weighed in pounds aren't too heavy--but as soon as they get beyond our own borders, the weight of our bags somehow convert themselves to kilograms and can cost you. Rule of thumb, travel light and enjoy your trip!