Save on Air Line Luggage Fees: 6 Tips on Picking Lightweight Luggage

Image Courtesy of Stanley Howe - Wiki Commons

In international travel, your flight is one of your biggest expenses. Not only is the dollar at one of its lowest levels ever but air line ticket prices keep rising because of higher fuel costs and security administration costs. So the last thing  you need is the gotcha of overweight luggage fees. One of the best ways to reduce your luggage weight is to buy lightweight luggage.  I know it sounds pretty obvious but many people don't realize how much the weights of various luggage brands can vary. 

Lightweight Luggage is specially designed to be lighter than standard luggage. Not only does lightweight luggage reduce baggage fees but lightweight luggage is often discounted, so you save even more. Lightweight luggage also reduces the strain and fatigue of carrying your luggage around while traveling. So here's what to look for in lightweight luggage:

• Lightweight luggage made of aluminum or canvas may save you up to 7 pounds per bag but they are very expensive leaving it up to you whether they are worth the price.

•  Beware of leather luggage: only certain kinds such as split-leather can be called lightweight.

• Sleek and compact styles that can be stowed easily in an overhead cabin or under a car seat.

• Lightweight suitcases that meet carry on size and weight requirements. This eliminates checked baggage fees and needing to wait for your luggage to be unloaded.

• The best lightweight luggage to reduce strain and fatigue are suitcases, garment bags, rolling duffel bags and laptop bags made with nylon or vinyl; these are lightweight but durable enough to protect your belongings.

• Some of the lightest luggage brands on the market (that do not sacrifice quality) include Antler Luggage, Eagle Creek Luggage  and International Traveller Luggage.

What's your favorite luggage and why do you like it?