With the steady drumbeat against hidden airline fees here in the U.S.A. I thought it would be good to take a look at baggage fees over in Europe. These are good for simply comparison purposes, however, they are also vital for anyone planning to travel in Europe. Knowing the landscape of travel can save lots of hassles and expense.
Our friends at www.travelsupermarket.com put together this short piece and chart to let travelers know what to expect when checking bags on flights to and from the U.K. Please note: These prices are in British Pounds Sterling (£). The current exchange rate is approximately US$1.60/£1.
With airlines getting stricter on the limits they allow for hand and hold luggage it is vital that when packing your baggage, you ensure you are within the rules set out by the airlines you are travelling with. When travelling with infants you should be aware of how little you can take in terms of free baggage so ensure you check that too when flying with those under 2.
Always check your documentation for your up to date allowances and ensure that you have checked your bags before going to the airport. You can buy airline friendly hand luggage from companies such as Flylite who have products that will maximise your allowance.
Our quick guide below will give you a snap shot of the best and the worst UK carriers in terms of hold luggage allowances. You can often save money by travelling with hand luggage only. Read our tips on travelling with hand luggage only and details of hand luggage allowances. For all other airlines check with you’re your operator, travel agent or airline for their own information as allowances can vary.
Click here for a larger version of this chart.
Charlie Leocha is the President of Travelers United. He has been working in Washington, DC, for the past 14 years with Congress, the Department of Transportation, and industry stakeholders on travel issues. He was the first consumer representative to the Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protections appointed by the Secretary of Transportation from 2012 through 2018.
