Travel Light and Fast: How to Ditch Checked Bags at Busy Airports
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After a long flight the last thing a weary traveler wants to do is spend more time at the airport than they have to. Nothing will hold you back from getting to your destination more than a checked bag, especially at busy airports like LAX, La Guardia, JFK and Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta. Even “priority” flyers often find themselves waiting as long as everyone else for their checked bags. It’s as though priority means their bags were put on the plane first, and thus come off last.
Some travelers don’t mind the wait. However, for the ones that want to get the heck out of airport into the comfort of car service, the arms of a loved one, their hotel, or their own bed:
Here are some tips for avoiding a checked bag.
Today, each of the airlines have different checked bag and carry on policies. Read the fine print before you book. That economy flight may not come with a carry-on allowance, or your boarding priority might pigeonhole you into being gate checked. Southwest and American tend to be more accommodating than United.
Pick the right carry-on luggage. Many rollies are actually smaller than an airline’s carry on allowance with is 22x14x9 inches (56x36x23cm). Also, choose carryon luggage that is comfortable and easy to maneuver. Many travelers check a bag because lugging a carry around the airport is uncomfortable. However, luggage makers have made some phenomenal strides in their products. Four-wheel rollies (spinners) can be had for $50 to $150, and they are remarkably smooth. They also don’t have to be the same quality as checked luggage as they will not take the same beating.
Be clever with your personnel item. Most airlines allow a personnel item such as a purse or back-pack. The airline requirement is simple, that it fit under the seat. Many backpacks are cleverly designed to carry clothes, electronics and storage pods.
Organize and pack light. You can pack the jacket, or you can wear the jacket and use it as a pillow or back support in those awful airline seats. Taking shoes on and off can be annoying. However, waiting for a checked bag can cost even more time. So, wear the bigger shoes and pack the sandals. This goes for pants and shorts, and sweaters and t-shirts. Whatever you can wear instead of pack might come in handy. The cabin is usually pretty chilly.
Travel portions of mouthwash, cologne and other liquids can remove the need to check a bag.
Rolling clothes and using cubes can help you pack more efficiently.
Where are you staying? Do they provide a washer dryer? One of the benefits of Air Bnb over a hotel is that many have a washer dryer provided. This can reduce the amount of clothes you need to bring. Another option is a laundry service or 24-hour dry cleaner in the neighborhood you will be staying.
We’re no fashion experts. However, planning a wardrobe with those go with everything shoes, pants, skirts and shirts can help reduce your clothing pack.
Be selective with electronics: Only bring the essential electronics you need, like a laptop, tablet, or phone, and their chargers. Consider consolidating devices where possible. IPads w/ a keyboard make great substitutes for a heavier laptop. Are both needed?
Packing tight can help reduce unnecessary shopping. However, if splurge happens and there’s no room in your carry on perhaps consider shipping your new digs via UPS or FedEx.
Traveling without a checked bag is a nuance experience and can lead to a smoother journey through airports like LAX. With a little extra planning and research the experience can be a lot easier. Safe travels and we will see you at the airport.
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Frank Baquero, Entertainment Travel Advisor