Checklist For Travelers
This is a checklist to keep travelers organized. Hopefully, it will be helpful when you begin to get ready for that exciting business or vacation trip.PACKING BASICS
TRAVEL ITEMS
BEFORE LEAVING
Smaller Carry-On Size?
The International air Transport Assocation has recommended all airlines reduce carry on size to 21.5" x 13.5" x 7.5". This has not yet been passed, but some of the international airlines have already adopted these size requirements for carry ons. Lufthansa, Air China, Cathay Pacific, and more are enforcing this size. Check with your airlines before you get to the airport! American, Delta and United are now being strict about the 22" x 14" x 9" size. Try not to expand the carry on or pack the outside pockets and the carry on may stay within the size requirements.
What Size Luggage Should I Pack?
Customers are always asking this question, "What size luggage should I pack?" When shopping on line, it's hard to know the size until you see it. We thought we'd help so you'll choose the size that best suits your needs. For overseas travel, we recommend the 25" or 26" size. This is the "medium" size luggage, and the size that will best fit in the smaller sized automobiles overseas. It's also easier to wheel the medium size when you are taking trains. Try to stay with one or two color schemes and you can then "mix and match." It will also cut down on having to pack a lot of different colored shoes or purses. The medium 25" or 26" size is perfect for a week to ten days. Detergent is available in small travel sizes, so you can wash out clothing if necessary. The 22" carry on can easily work for 4-5 days of travel. You see many business travelers doing just that. It cuts down on wait time at the baggage carousel. Carry-ons are quick and efficient. You can bring a laptop or briefcase along too. As long as one bag fits overhead and one fits underneath the seat in front of you, you'll usually be "good to go." When taking a cruise, go ahead and indulge. Take along those large 29" or 30" cases. You'll see the same people often, so you'll probably want to change clothing and accessories. There is no weight limit on cruises so you can indulge. On most airplane flights, there is a fifty pound limit or you'll be charged for the overweight bag. There is also a 62" linear size before the bag is considered "over-sized." Since airlines now charge for over-sized as well as overweight baggage, you want to keep within the guidelines. Check with your individual airline to be sure. Linear inches is determined by adding height, plus length plus width. You can take a two to three week trip in the 29" or 30" size pullman. Most luggage companies offer all of the sizes, but check out the
Victorinox
Swiss Army luggage to see a fabulous array of sizes.
What Size Should My Carry On Be?
Airlines have a sizing box or template at the airport and you may be asked to put your carry on inside before boarding. Because airlines have been charging for baggage, many, many travelers are opting for this kind of suitcases. The sizing box used by most domestic airlines is 22" x 14" x 9". Carry on luggage is supposed to conform to 45" linear inches, but often the airline will refer to the sizing box before deciding whether to gate check your carry on. Many companies use measurements that do not include the wheels or handle, and these pieces will have a tough time fitting inside the template or sizing box. The decision of whether you can take your bag with you on board is up to the airline personnel. On these crowded flights it might be smartest to go smaller rather than larger. Additionally, stuffing those expandable pockets may get your case gate checked or out and out refused before boarding. International luggage companies like
Lipault
will measure it from the bottom of the wheels to the tip of the handle. These slightly smaller carry ons will fit in overhead compartments easier. U.S. companies usually do not measure that way, and only give the size of the actual bag. If the flight is not full, usually the airlines will be much more lenient and even let you carry on bags that are clearly over-sized. However, you need to be prepared if you over-pack or use a larger bag than will fit in the airline template.
Airplane Travel Is Easier
Now with the PreCheck security program, airline travel is getting easier and certainly more convenient. This is designed to speed up the screening process within the United States at busy airports. The Transportation Administration has announced that they will expand the program to 28 airports this year. U.S. citizens are eligible for the program. You can get complete information on PreCheck Security at www.tsa.gov. Anything that makes the travel process easier and safer is welcome to busy travelers. Neatly packing your carry on bags will also help you get through security faster!
