Considering Airline Luggage Restrictions

!±8± Considering Airline Luggage Restrictions

There are people who plan everything down to the minutest detail. These people will always be prepared, and every trip will begin with only the best and most convenient luggage items to make the trip a sheer joy. Well, most of us probably are not such people, but today's airline luggage restrictions are forcing us to become more organized

Our suitcases often were already full when we left home, and more than once we had to purchase extra bags or suitcases along the way. Ditto for umbrellas, by the way.

One such 'extra' was a beautifully constructed, expandable leather suitcase on wheels.

We very quickly learned, however, that there are all kinds of reasons for considering well in advance the reason a piece of luggage is bought, the purpose it must serve, and the conditions under which it must perform. In this particular case we had not considered that four small wheels on a large suitcase do not work very well on cobblestones.

If you only want a school bag or backpack, a review like the following is great:

"Seven years of daily use by my daughter and then son, the telescoping handle did not break until it was backed over by a truck." Sounds like a sturdy rolling backpack, don't you think?

If, on the other hand, you are an executive who travels frequently, the following review might appeal to you: "Unbelievably light weight yet fully featured. Lightweight graphite copolymer frame. Trolley cases feature a Travel Sentry TSA Approved combination lock for convenience and security while traveling. Recessed locking Trolley handle made of industrial aluminum with easy access push button to lock and release (One hand operation) - protected and recessed Velocity in-line skate wheels for an easy roll and long lasting service, etc."

Notice the emphasis on strength, light weight materials, easy one hand operation and detail in construction. Considering present weight restrictions and punishing extra airline luggage fees the weight of the empty piece of luggage is very important. Yes, you want the wheels, and yes, you want the strong trolley handle, but they can't add too much weight all by themselves, and even in lightweight construction must be sturdy and durable.

When it comes to carry on luggage, size is also important. Surely you have seen the airport measuring models, which show you exactly the outside size allowed. This serves to make certain the luggage fits into the overhead bin or under the seat. An extra consideration with carry on luggage should be extra pockets for smaller items like boarding passes, passports, perhaps a novel or puzzle book.

Whenever you travel by air, consider well in advance the airline luggage restrictions, be aware of the carry on limits and avoid additional airline luggage fees.