Overweight Luggage: What You Need to Know When Packing Your Suitcase

At airports, many travellers face extra fees or the unpleasant surprise of having to repack their suitcases at check-in desks. To avoid this, it is important to prepare well in advance. Here's what you need to know when packing your suitcase, as advised by Tagoo experts.
Airlines have strict rules on luggage weight and each airline may have different restrictions. If you exceed the limit, which is usually 20 kg (but you need to check on a case-by-case basis), several scenarios can happen:

• Extra fees: Usually passengers have to pay an extra fee, which can range from a few to several dozen euros per extra kilo.
• Baggage re-allocation: Airport staff may ask you to move some items into your hand luggage. If you don't have hand luggage or if it doesn't fit, you will be asked to remove the overweight items and leave them behind.
• Delays and stress: If you only find out that your luggage is overweight at the check-in desk, you may spend a lot of time dealing with the issue and face the added stress of a potential delay in boarding.

To avoid problems, it is important to prepare properly and check your luggage at home. Please note that the weight of the suitcase itself is included in the total weight allowance. The easiest way, if you do not have a luggage scale, is to weigh your suitcase on a bathroom scale. Weigh yourself and then weigh your suitcase, the difference will be the weight of your luggage. If you are a frequent traveller, it is worth investing in a portable luggage scale that allows you to weigh your suitcase accurately. Always leave a little weight to spare after weighing your luggage, as airport scales may show differently from your home scale. Different companies have different weight limits, so be sure to check these before packing.
It is worth following a few simple tips to stay within the limit:

• Plan your outfit - choose versatile clothes that can be mixed and matched.
• Minimalism - avoid heavy items, especially large cosmetic bottles or heavy books.
• Carry heavy items with you - if you have heavy jackets or shoes, you can wear them on the flight.
• Use hand luggage - if the airline allows you to take hand luggage, move some of your heavier items there.
• Choose lighter suitcases - a heavy suitcase can add a few extra kilos on its own, so choose lightweight and durable models.
• Keep an eye on the weight of your suitcase on the way back - often there is no opportunity to weigh your suitcase on the way back, so if you plan to buy souvenirs or gifts during your trip, make sure you leave room in your luggage for this beforehand.

Overweight luggage can lead to extra costs and stress, but if you are properly prepared you can avoid unpleasant situations. Weigh your luggage carefully, familiarise yourself with airline rules and pack wisely. Light and well-planned luggage will allow you to enjoy every moment of your trip and focus on what matters most - great memories and unforgettable experiences.

Tagoo wishes you pleasant flights!