According to our team’s research and other sources, there are only two major domestic airlines that do not charge fees for checked baggage. Baggage fees for the first checked bag now range anywhere from $15 – $45, with second bags costing an additional $15 – $55. Most international airlines do not charge for the first checked bag, but the second checked bag can cost as much as $230. Keep in mind that these fees are charged each way on your trip, so traveling with your luggage can be a lot more expensive than just a plane ticket. George Hobica of Airfarewatchdog.com says,“…it’s less expensive to ship than to pay a $25 or even more expensive baggage fee.” Additionally, the fees increase exponentially when a checked bag is overweight.

While saving money can be one of the biggest factors in deciding to ship luggage for a trip, another reason is to avoid the hassle of traveling with your bags. Increased security at airports and airline cutbacks mean that more flights are operating at full capacity, which makes traveling with baggage complicated and sometimes difficult. The list of restrictions for carry-on items and checked baggage is very long and changes frequently. Getting checked in and through security with your items can also present a very large challenge, especially when traveling with children or elderly adults. If your trip includes multiple stops with layovers, the potential for your luggage to be misplaced or damaged is a very real possibility.

Another prime opportunity to ship your luggage is if you are traveling with large items that are difficult to check, including skis, snowboards, golf clubs, snorkel equipment, or hunting items (firearms, hunting bows, etc.). Most airlines do not offer comprehensive coverage in the event that an expensive item is lost or damaged, which can ruin your trip before it even begins.

If you are looking to make your trip a breeze, consider bringing your luggage to Pak Mail to ship to your final destination. Pak Mail representatives are experts at packing and shipping for travel and will help you determine the right solution for your luggage, including coverage in the event of damage, or worse, lost bags. Imagine how easy travel will be when you don’t have to get all that luggage to and from the airport. Instead, you can maintain your privacy, cover, and track your bags all the way to your final destination. We all know peace of mind makes all the difference in your overall trip experience.

Talk to the experts at your local Pak Mail about the best ways to ship luggage to your next destination – you might be surprised at how much you can save.

Watch a few examples on YouTube of the airlines’ carelessness and why shipping with Pak Mail is the safe, worry-free choice.

Baggage Handling Nightmares United Breaks Guitars Delta Baggage Whoops