Going on a short trip and want to avoid checked baggage fees and waiting at baggage claim?
Pack in a smallish suitcase, leave liquids and sharp objects at home and gate check your bag.
Each airline has it’s own regulations as to how much you can carry with you onto the plane. I am in no way suggesting you exceed that allowance. And no, you cannot pack an extra large suitcase, as it must fit through the security scanner.
Instead, pack a small bag, (preferably a rolling one so you can get it to the gate easier) being sure to comply with what is allowed by the TSA to be carried through security. Then, once at the gate, ask the gate agent for a gate check tag. Just before you step onto the plane, leave your bag for loading onto the plane right on the jetway. It will be placed in a spot in the plane with strollers and other gate checked items. Once you arrive at your destination, wait for your bag on the jetway just outside the door to the plane, grab it when it is unloaded, and cruise off to the rest of your vacation.
Sure, you have to carry it to the plane yourself, but you won’t have a checked luggage fee and you won’t have to find a spot for it in an overhead bin. And yes, you can still carry on whatever your airline allows as carry on. This means that, typically, you can gate check one bag and carry another bag on, as well as one personal item.
Haven’t flown in awhile? Check this post on how to breeze through the airport.
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