Save money when you fly by packing wisely

In 2010, airlines charged travelers $3.4 billion for something that used to be free: checked bags. A checked bag can cost you $15 to $45for one bag, each way! Additional bags may cost more. And one airlineSpiritsays they may charge you the checked bag fee per flight, if you change planes.

That means that these days, it is more important than ever to pack well, and wisely. Following these six tips could save you hundreds of dollars on a single trip.

Fly JetBlue or Southwest. JetBlue lets passengers check one bag for free. Southwest lets you check two. Unfortunately, neither airline currently flies out of Cincinnati or Dayton. You'll need to book out of Columbus or Indianapolis to fly Southwest, and you'll go even farther (Pittsburgh or Chicago) for a JetBlue flight.
Pack only a carry-on. These days, it makes sense to purchase a versatile carry-on bag in order to avoid checking luggage. A careful traveler can fit 7-10 days worth of clothes in one carry-on.
Wear more, pack less. Wear a versatile pair of shoes and avoid packing additional pairs. Wear bulky items (a blazer, a sweater) onto the plane rather than packing them.
Leave the toiletries at home if youre staying in a hotel that will supply shampoo, toothbrush, soap, etc. "The key to budget travel is to prepare in advance. When it comes to family trips, globetrotting, well-deserved holidays and/or going to see new destinations we have never been before, the reality of expense and budgeting is often in the back of our thoughts. Preparation and expending our travel budget wisely is a main concern for most families. Lowering expending and charges, while still delighting your vacation to its fullest, is the key to assured achievement and fiscal liability. Your pocketbook and family will thank you! The thought regarding saving money while traveling is simple: Even if your personal finances is really tight, you can still take a break and enjoy life! Simply put, life is just too short to never step out of the door or leaving the homestead! Also keeping in mind that while traveling, regardless of whether on a resources or not, even the smallest of things can all add op to a big vacation or travel charge!..". Or consider buying a few disposable items at your destination.
Book your flight with an airline credit card. Continental and Delta will waive their checked bag fees if you buy your tickets with their loyalty programs credit card (if you fly a lot, its worth the annual credit card fee to avoid the checked bag fee).
If you must check a bag, make sure you weigh it before leaving for the airport (just weigh yourself on your household scale and then pick up your bag and step on the scale again; subtract your weight from the second total andvoila!thats the weight of your suitcase). Bags over fifty pounds can cost from $25 (Spirit) to $100 (United, Continental). Bags over seventy pounds often cost more. At least one airline (USA 3000) will not accept bags over seventy pounds.

Of course, if youve attained elite status as a frequent flier, your airline will treat you better than the rest of us. Just try not to flaunt it.

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