Is It Worth It To Check In Your Luggage and Pay a Fee?

Incorporating a trip or two into the annual routine has become a norm throughout the world. And airlines haven’t been far behind when it comes to capitalizing each part of your itinerary with fees. One such infamous charge is the checked baggage fee. From $35 to a whopping $100, taking large bags with you can end up costing you quite a lot.

While carrying a large suitcase is essential when you’re traveling with the fam, many solo travelers opt for carry-on luggage to evade the fee. Let’s not forget the versatility and freedom the carry-on lifestyle brings to the table! But, there’s a downside. In fact, there are many downsides. Today, we’ll take you through the dark side of carry-on luggage and explain why it’s worth it to check in your luggage and pay a fee.

IS CHECKING A BAG WORTH IT?

Don’t leave it to luck

On paper, having a carry-on means you won’t have to pay any extra luggage fee. But sometimes things don’t go to plan. You see, airlines tend to double down on passengers who are just carrying a handbag.

And even if your carry-on exceeds the weight limit by a hair, the airport personnel will either tag the bag as checked or ask you to take things out on the spot. And trust us, moods can get sour real quick when you’re packing and unpacking your hand-carry in front of the whole airport.

Also, let’s not forget how you’ll be charged extra for this last-minute check-in! Even if your carry-on passes the weight requirement, the air hostess may tag your bag for the cargo hold if the overhead bins are all full on the plane. This world isn’t fair, we know.

A superior wardrobe

No matter how much of a packing aficionado you are, there is just so much you can fit inside your carry-on luggage. This means you’ll have to compromise on your travel wardrobe. Planning to wear a different outfit each day? Well, boo hoo.

In fact, you should consider yourself lucky if you manage to stock an outfit for every alternate day! You’ll also have to compromise on the type of outfits. Dresses and anything heavy will be out of the equation. So, have fun wearing basic tees and shorts throughout the trip.

Brave the cold

Speaking of heavy clothes, you won’t be able to fit winter apparel into your carry-on luggage. So, make sure you opt for a checked bag if the temps are predicted to go down where you’re going.

Say no to laundry stops

The repercussion of your limited wardrobe will go far beyond style. You’ll also have to get your clothes washed if you’re planning to repeat them on the trip. And unless your hotel offers laundry services, you’ll have to shell out quite a lot of money getting your outfit cleaned.

You can opt for the second route of hand washing the clothes in the hotel. But drying them will become a hassle of its own — what with most hotels not allowing you to open the windows.

Superior packing

Limited baggage space also means you won’t be able to pack anything new for the flight back home, even if it’s a small trinket or a souvenir for your loved ones. This means shopping will be out of the equation during your foreign escapades.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Long gone are the days when checked baggage was a threat of getting lost. Don’t believe us? Well, as per SITA, lost luggage cases are down by 70% over the last decade. So, check in your bag with full confidence and travel conveniently the next time you plan a trip.