Picking the right luggage and packing smartly is vital now with airlines seeing baggage as a source of revenue. The cost of bringing baggage continues to go up and increases again for summer.
A 15kg checked bag will cost €72 return with Ryanair and €80 with Aer Lingus to, for example, Lanzarote. You can bring a 10kg bag as cabin baggage on board both airlines and one other item like a handbag or duty free. Regulations for cabin and checked luggage varies between airlines. Check before you begin packing. Prices vary on distances.
Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Stobart Air, has a seven kilo maximum cabin baggage limit as they operate smaller ATR 72-600 aircraft. A standard cabin bag for up to 10kg measures, 55x5x20cm, 115cm combined. A 15kg-23kg bag can go up to 75x50x30cm, 155cm combined.
It may be worth considering using full service carriers and even travelling via another airport to get to your destination cheaper. They usually include a 20-23kg bag, include food on board and drinks, and no charge for seats. Full service carriers, operating from Ireland to Europe, include British Airways, Air France, KLM, SAS, Turkish, Iberia, and Swiss. Transatlantic flights usually include a 23kg bag and food.
The range of luggage on sale is very extensive now and when buying a new bag for travelling you should try it first, see if you like the feel. Bags with spinner wheels are much easier to manoeuvre, and always check the unpacked weight. There is a good selection of ultra light bags available.
Backpacks with lots of straps can get caught in conveyor belts. Tape or tie them up. Bright bags may not be your cup of tea, but they are easy to find in a baggage hall. Soft or hard shell is a personal choice but watch the weight, especially if travelling with a cabin bag only.
jscales@irishtimes.com
