Packing Principles for Your Holiday Travel
Learn how to make the most of the space in your carry-on.
July 1, 2008 — -- Along with raising ticket prices and doing away with amenities, many airlines have started to charge passengers for checking a bag. And some have begun cracking down on fliers who try to avoid checking luggage that is bigger than the carry-on rules allow.
With all the changes it can be difficult for a traveler to determine the easiest, quickest and cheapest ways to fly. "Good Morning America" parenting contributor Ann Pleshette Murphy gives you tips on traveling this holiday weekend. Before you pack up and head out, make sure you check out this list.
There are a lot of things going on with oil and the economy, but one of the most obvious reasons things are more expensive this year has to do with the new fees for checked baggage.
Already you've seen American Airlines, the nation's largest carrier, announce a $15 fee for the first bag checked. Later on this summer, US Airways and United Airlines are going to match that with $15 fees of their own.
Plus, there's going to be an end to curbside luggage check-in at 34 airports, including JFK in New York and Dulles International in Washington.
It could be, but first you need to do your homework. Call ahead and find out if the hotel even accepts bags. If so, find out how much it charges. And then weigh that against all the charges you would incur through checking the baggage. It all depends on when, where and how you're traveling.
Obviously, the best way to beat the check-in fees is to pack as lightly as possible and put as much as you can into a carry-on.
The Case Logic 22-inch lightweight upright is priced at $189.99 and allows the savvy traveler to pack more and complies with the carry-on regulations of most airlines. Also, it's good because it has a lot of pockets.
Then there is the Skyway Montage 22-inch vertical carry-on, which costs between $70 and $140. It's an expandable polyester, soft-sided bag and has two roomy front exterior pockets, interior shoe bags, and a leak-proof cosmetic case that is removable.
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