Tips On Packing Hand Luggage

Posted April 22, 2009 by BookingBuddy

It used to be that we could check in our bags for free whenever we flew. However, with more and more airlines levying a fee on checked bags, those good ol’ days seem to be coming to an end. Fortunately, it is still free to travel with hand luggage (for now anyway), so if you’re one of those who absolutely have to pack two huge Samsonites for a long weekend, after booking cheap flights to Paris, now might be a good time to start thinking about cutting out some items. Don’t despair; your good friends here at BookingBuddy have a few handy tips for you.

First of all, when packing your carry-on, be sure to find out what the hand luggage restrictions are. Many carriers often have their own restrictions on hand luggage. While BA only requires that you have one bag no bigger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, Ryanair’s requirements are slightly stricter – your bag ‘should weigh no more than 10kg and not exceed the maximum dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm’. Find cheap flights to Dublin with Ryanair.

Some carriers may not have a weight restriction for cabin baggage, but that does not mean that just because you can shove everything including the kitchen sink into your backpack, that you should. Airlines are wont to scrutinise your hand luggage, and if it looks like you’re about to dislocate you shoulder from the weight of the bag, they’re very probably going to make you check it in anyway.

And, as we have already pointed out before, be sure to start with a packing list. This way, you can eliminate the unnecessary, and make sure you’ve packed everything you need. If it’s not on the list, it doesn’t go into the bag.

Remember, restrictions are still in place regarding the amount of liquids you can carry on. Decant all liquids and gels (shampoo, soap etc) into 100ml bottles if they come in bigger sizes. If you’re worried you’ll run out, you can always buy more supplies once you’ve gone through the security screening, or even when you’re at your destination.

Your liquids and gels must then be packed into clear, resealable bags – if you haven’t got any, many airports supply them for free, so pick them up and transfer your liquids into them before going through security. Sharp items such as nail files or nail clippers/ scissors should also be packed in an easily accessible pocket of your carry-on bag, as security may want to inspect them.

Finally, you may also want to pack a collapsible or foldable bag (such as a canvas shopping bag) with your hand luggage. Security on your return flight may not be so restricted, and if you bought anything new, it can always go into the extra bag. You can also use the extra bag to hold any items that you’re likely to use while on the flight – books, a cardigan, a bottle of water. Pack those items into the collapsible bag, then stuff it into your carry-on. Once you’re on the place, you can then take the second bag out and stow it under your seat, while keeping the main bag in the overhead storage bins.

(Photo credit: nydailynews.com)

Categories: Travel Tips