The majority of airlines only give young children a very small free baggage allowance so an increasing number of parents are having to pay large excess baggage charges. It is quite possible for the excess baggage charge to cost more then the original airline ticket


Tips on avoiding Excess Baggage charges

1, Before arriving at the airport, do some research. Look online at the airline's website. Determine what you can carry or check, how many bags and for how much they will cost to check them in at the ticket counter. If you are planning on checking in luggage, decide what the most important items you need are. Do you really need three pairs of shoes for a week long trip? By scaling back, you can save space and money

2, Be aware of how much your baggage weighs. Look at the airline's guidelines on weight. One of the most expensive things for excess baggage can be an overweight charge. Try to weigh it at home on your scale before ever arriving at the airport.

3, Most airlines charge for baggage, even the first one. After the second bag fee, the excess baggage fee goes way up in cost. If the airline weighs your bag and it is over the limit by only a few pounds, see if they will let you take something out quickly. It is probably cheaper to throw some non essentials away than paying the excess baggage fee for that overweight bag. You can always replace those items when you arrive at your destination

4, If you decide not to check in luggage at all, abide by the rules of carry-on luggage. If you get to the departure gate with more than is allowed, you could still get hit with an excess baggage fee for an oversize bag or too many carry-ons. You can avoid this by knowing the correct size and dimensions of carry-ons for that airline, and how many pieces you are allowed (usually one small carry-on and one personal item).