Estimated read time: Less than a minute
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
A lot of people will be flying out today, but they may have done themselves a disservice in the way they packed their bags.
Because most airlines have new baggage fees, Jim Svendsen at A Travel Center says people might try cramming a lot into one suitcase to avoid a second bag. Instead, he suggests travelers look for ways to lighten the load.
"Is there going to be a washer and dryer there? Are you staying at grandma's? Then you don't need to bring as many clothes," Svendsen said.
Also, there are hair gels, blow dryers, things like that, often already at your destination.
Svendsen says many carriers are using smaller jet planes with less overhead bin space. But you can usually check your stuffed carry-on bag under the plane, and that's free.
He says make sure you have activities for the kid -- that really comes in handy during long delays.
For more suggestions from Svendsen, click the related audio link to the right of this story.
E-mail: rjeppesen@ksl.com
