Travelling with hand luggage only can speed up the airport process, allowing passengers to skip queues for baggage check-in and collection at the other end. However, this method of travel also brings with it unique challenges. All airlines impose their own rules surrounding cabin bag size and weight, which can result in unexpected fees for travellers whose luggage don’t comply. easyJet is one of the UK’s most popular budget airlines, and while they set out baggage restrictions, they do allow some additional cabin items aside from bags some passengers don’t know about.
For passengers who are concerned about making sure their luggage fits, one lightweight luggage pro spoke with express.co.uk to offer his top tips for staying within the requirements.
Matt Bagwell, co-founder of SEVENFEETAPART, says that the baggage journey should start at home.
“Plan ahead, he suggests.
“Lay out everything that you think that you’ll need to take and then ask yourself, ‘Am I really going to need this?’
“In a recent survey of our customers, 62% said that they packed too much when they travelled. So when you survey the piles on the floor, consider what you can jettison.”
Passengers are also advised to be realistic about their travels. Consider the reason for the trip, as well as the destination and weather forecast.
Matt continues: “Check the destination weather.
“Typically, what people pack is influenced by the environment they leave, not the one they arrive in.
“Packing lightweight, breathable clothes might be obvious for a beach break; the same items may be just as appropriate on a warm city break.”
Kai Feller, co-founder of online local services marketplace Bark.com which boasts its own professional holiday packing service, also weighed in with some expert advice.
Feller’s top tip for packing hand luggage is to go for a backpack as your baggage of choice.
“I always pack light whenever I travel – it can be a real pain to lug a heavy suitcase around, especially when you’re in a hurry,” he told Express.co.uk.
“If you’re looking to travel light and avoid baggage fees pack a capsule wardrobe into your carry on.
“Choose a limited collection of colours and styles that work together for any situation and layer your outfits.”
