That Medium Sized Luggage

What are the advantages to medium sized luggage? Most of us bought the largest piece of luggage available. It made more sense at the time because it only cost slightly more than the smaller piece. Usually there was no more than a ten-dollar difference between the large and the medium sized Pullman case. We always figured we'd have no problem filling the suitcase; we'd just pack a little more. If the airlines had a weight restriction it was usually seventy-five pounds, and they weren't all that strict about enforcing the rule. Luggage came in 30" and 31" and even 32" sized upright Pullmans. Of course, everything has changed now. Many of the airlines have both a size and weight restriction and it is being enforced. There are several surcharges if you do not stay within their requirements. While you need to check with your individual carrier, the general weight restriction is fifty pounds and the size restriction is sixty-two linear inches. That is the height of the luggage, plus the width plus the depth added together. Generally, there are different requirements for coach, first class, and business class travelers. Different airlines also have different surcharges. So what can travelers do? Many are purchasing that medium sized piece of luggage. It is usually a 26" or 27" case, and it is available from almost every luggage manufacturer. Because it is smaller, it will rarely go over the fifty-pound limit. For longer trips, you might try the expandable sizes. These cases will give you about two inches more of depth and can be used when necessary. Some couples are packing all of their lightweight clothing in their larger piece of luggage. Then they are packing their shoes, toiletries, cosmetics and heavier items in the smaller piece of luggage. Even some of the heavier pairs of jeans can be packed in the smaller piece of luggage. This should work and keep both pieces under the fifty-pound weight limit. A portable scale is a very handy travel accessory for those that do not wish to pay airline surcharges. The scale weighs the case easily. My favorite model allows you to lift the luggage slightly and the scale locks in the number. Then you can just lift the scale up to your eyes, without having to lift a heavy suitcase all of the way. Another option is you can also send some of your items on ahead. Do check with your hotel, as many are now charging a surcharge to hold your package or a storage charge. You can also pack your shoes, hairdryers, and travel irons and some of your other heavier items in your carry on luggage. Keep in mind you cannot pack your cosmetics and toiletries in your carry on. The only amount of liquids and gels that can be carried is the 3-1-1 case. This is bottles of three ounces or less, in a one quart sized clear plastic bag, and only one of these per person. While we always packed all of these heavy bottles of shampoo and hairspray in our carry on, the way we used to pack has now changed. These toiletries having to go in our luggage increases the weight of the luggage. Try to purchase sample sizes, or pour your larger sizes of cosmetics and toiletries into travel sized containers and bottles to keep the weight of the luggage down. That medium sized luggage is looking like a pretty good idea if you wish to avoid the airline surcharges. And remember, you can still take those oversized suitcases on cruises!