Travellers looking to cut costs on their next trip can save up to £100 by chooseing carry on luggage and sticking to carry-on luggage, according to a new report.
Research from Skyscanner shows that checked baggage can add as much as €120 (£101) per bag to the cost of flights from the UK, depending on the airline.
Luggage shipping experts at My Baggage have revealed their top five tips for maximising carry-on space, ensuring you can travel with all your essentials without paying extra for checked bags.
1. Use a duty-free bag
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a duty-free shopping bag on board alongside their carry-on luggage at no extra cost. This is a little-known trick that could help you take a few extra items with you. After passing through security, simply ask for a carrier bag in one of the duty-free shops and use it for anything that won’t fit into your carry-on.
Be sure to check your airline’s policies, but this method could help you avoid extra baggage fees if your luggage is slightly over-packed.
2. Secret pillow hack
Many airlines let passengers carry a neck cushion onboard at no additional cost. To take advantage of this, you can remove the cushion from its cover and fill it with small, soft items like bikinis or t-shirts, freeing up space in your carry-on.
This trick can give you extra room without added fees, but it’s important to check your airline’s rules first. Most carriers, such as Wizz Air, Jet2, and EasyJet, allow it, though Ryanair does not officially permit it.
3. Dress to save
Wearing your bulkiest items of clothing on the plane is another simple way to save space. Coats, boots, and even headphones can be worn rather than packed, while layering up can give you extra capacity when luggage space is tight.
Though it may not be the most comfortable option, it’s a quick fix when you can’t quite fit everything in your carry-on. You can always shed some layers once seated.
4. Avoid toiletries
Shampoos and deodorants take up space and are subject to strict security regulations on liquids. Instead of packing them, consider buying toiletries at the airport after passing through security, where you can carry them onboard in a duty-free bag.
Alternatively, purchasing toiletries once you’ve arrived at your destination might be cheaper, depending on where you’re travelling to. Checking prices online beforehand can help with planning.
5. Pack efficiently
Efficient packing is key to travelling with only a carry-on. Making a list of essentials helps to avoid overpacking. Tools like vacuum roll bags can also be useful, as they allow you to compress clothes and reduce the amount of space they take up.
Additionally, it’s essential to check the carry-on size limits for your airline. For example, Ryanair allows cabin bags of up to 40x20x25cm, Wizz Air permits 40x20x30cm, while EasyJet and Jet2 have larger allowances at 45x36x20cm and 56x45x25cm, respectively. Maximising your allowed bag size is an easy way to make the most of your carry-on.
Paul Stewart, Managing Director of My Baggage, said: “Flying with just carry-on luggage is a great way of saving money, especially on budget airlines, where checked luggage costs can be significant. The key is to get creative when packing. Not only does sticking to carry-on save money, but it also spares you from the wait at baggage claim and the risk of lost luggage. By using these tips, you can make the most of your carry-on allowance without sacrificing essentials.”
