If you’re planning a trip, chances are you’re going to have to deal with excess luggage at some point. Whether it’s because you’re bringing too many things or because your travel companions are, excess luggage can be a pain to deal with. There are a few ways you can handle excess luggage when travelling. Here are some tips on how to handle too much luggage when travelling.
1. Luggage storage
If you’re travelling by plane, you can usually store excess luggage in the overhead compartment or under your seat. However, if you’re travelling by train or bus, you have limited storage space. So it’s best to find a luggage storage facility near your departure point. This way, you can drop off your excess luggage and pick it up when you arrive at your destination. If you are traveling to Italy, you can find storage for your luggage in Rome or Florence and pick it up when you are ready to leave. It’s always best to check with your travel agent or the airline before you leave to find out what their policies are regarding excess luggage.
2. Luggage shipping
If you’re travelling by air you can even have your excess luggage shipped ahead of time to your destination. This is a great option if you’re travelling with a lots of suitcases or if you need to have your luggage arrive before you do. Luggage shipping companies will pick up your luggage at your departure point and deliver it to your destination. Most companies will also insure your luggage, so if anything happens to it during transit, you’ll be reimbursed.
It’s important to note that many airlines have weight and size restrictions for luggage that is being shipped. Be sure to check with your airline before you book your shipping service.
3. Luggage forwarding services
If you have a lot of luggage, you may want to consider using a luggage forwarding service. These services will pick up your luggage from your home or hotel and deliver it to your destination. This can be a great option if you are traveling with a lot of gear or if you are worried about losing your luggage. Additionally, many of these services offer insurance in case your luggage is lost or damaged. This option can be more expensive than shipping your luggage, but it may be worth it if you have a lot of valuable items in your luggage.
4. Carry-on luggage
If you’re only bringing a few items with you on your trip, you may be able to get away with carrying everything on the plane with you. Most airlines have weight and size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so be sure to check with your airline before you pack your bags. Additionally, if you’re travelling with a lot of gear, you may want to consider using a rolling suitcase or backpack so you don’t have to carry everything by hand.
5. Excess Luggage: Leave items behind
If you’re really struggling with excess luggage, you may want to consider leaving some items behind. This is especially true if you’re travelling for an extended period of time. If you’re only going to be gone for a week or two, you may be able to get away with packing less. However, if you’re planning on being gone for several months, it’s probably best to leave some non-essential items at home. This way, you won’t have to worry about lugging them around with you or paying to ship them. I use lots of packing cubes to squish all the clothing items into a smaller space.
6. Rent or borrow gear
If you’re traveling with a lot of gear, you may want to consider renting or borrowing some of it. For example, if you’re going on a ski trip, you may be able to rent skis and other equipment instead of bringing your own. This can be a great way to save space in your luggage and avoid having to ship or carry bulky items. Additionally, many cities have equipment rental stores where you can rent everything from bikes to kayaks.
It’s always best to call ahead and reserve your rental items so you don’t have to worry about them being unavailable when you arrive.
If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, there are several things you can do to make the process easier. First, you can check with your airline or travel agent to see if they have any restrictions on excess luggage. Additionally, you can use a luggage shipping service or a luggage forwarding service to have your bags delivered to your destination. By following these tips, you can make travelling with a lot of luggage much easier and less stressful.
