Cut the Cost of Excess Baggage

Our members this week have armed themselves with calculators and scales and have given themselves the task of determining the best ways to minimise excess baggage costs.

The golden rule of cost cutting is knowing the airline and their luggage allowances.  Qantas has of one of the least generous luggage allowances being 20kg, however it is widely known that 23kg is the “true” allowance.  Some airlines even offer a much more generous at a 30kg allowance.

The other key figure to know is the cost per kilo of each kilo exceeding the designated allowance.  This generally ranges from $52.00 per kilo to a phenomenal $90.00 per kilo!  Exceeding the luggage allowance is certainly a costly process.

Our members this week have provided a host of valuable hints and tips to avoid unnecessary expense.  A relatively simple yet effective method is to request that the airline waives the excess or allows an additional amount.  One member had particular success with this method when relocating to Singapore.  However a word of warning, ensure you speak to staff at the airport when making these arrangements, rather than a travel agent or staff at the airlines reservations desk.

Another viable alternative is to consider baggage relocation services or freighting those excess goods.  One member recommends company “Jetta” to send luggage at approximately $9 per kilo.  Alternatively, you can send your luggage unaccompanied on a different flight at a cost of approximately $10 per kilo.

One final tip: consider purchasing a scale designed specifically for weighing suitcases, such as the popular Balanzza Ergo BZ300 which combines a Digital Luggage Scale with a Timer Alarm and Flashlight!

Add your tips and tricks to the bag HERE.