Consider your bags before you book and fly this December-If you’re planning to fly away for your December holidays, don’t overlook the specific luggage regulations for your chosen airline. As air traffic surges at year-end, an overlooked hiccup with your bags is guaranteed to put a damper on your travel experience.
“Packing and planning ahead is paramount during the festive season, and yes, this includes checking the requirements for both your carry-on and checked luggage,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager, Flight Centre South Africa.
Domestic and international airlines update this information more frequently than you might anticipate, so it is essential to check it before you arrive at the airport or, even better, before you make your booking. There’s a high chance the rules may have changed since you last took to the skies, so don’t leave it up to Murphy’s Law.”
Whether you’re gearing up for a trip abroad or a local adventure with loved ones this December, here are several factors to consider for a hassle-free luggage experience.
Domestic flight stipulations
When it comes to cabin baggage, most domestic airlines include one free carry-on bag in the ticket price. However, it should weigh no more than 7kg and have dimensions that align with international standards, usually around 56cm x 36cm x 23cm. Laptops are typically considered part of your hand luggage, but they also need to meet weight and size restrictions.
“While there are similarities in the regulations of our national carriers, it is important to note that they are not all identical. Each carrier has its own specific policies,” Turner explains. “Regarding checked luggage, economy tickets often have an extra fee, but when you book online, you generally pay less for additional options. If you want to save money and time, don’t wait until you get to the airport to pay your baggage fees.”
Customer Service and Marketing Manager, Gabriela Ballotto at U-BAG adds how it’s important to note that irregular-shaped bags are not allowed at domestic check-in counters. “Even if you meet the weight requirements, your carry-on items still need to fit into the plane’s overhead compartment.”
Requirements for items like sporting and musical equipment also vary among South African carriers. For example, CemAir charges R35.00 per kilogram for all luggage over the 21kg allowance, whereas FlySafair charges an additional R285.00 per item per person and is limited to 32kg.
“If you’re concerned about storing precious Christmas presents, valuable scuba gear, or a brand new bicycle in the hold while travelling, it’s worth considering alternative baggage services like U-BAG. We will collect the items from you and deliver them to your home or hotel in advance, so you don’t have to lug them with you to the airport.”
International flight stipulations
As the peak global travel season approaches, South African travellers must be aware of their chosen airline’s policies, as regulations can vary greatly among international airlines.
“As a general practice, most international airlines typically allow one piece of cabin baggage and one smaller personal item, such as a laptop bag, included in your airfare. However, it’s important to note that this may not always be the case,” says Turner.
December air travel British Airways allows generous cabin baggage weight, with a limit of 23kg. However, major Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates and Qatar only permit a maximum of 7kg.
Checked luggage requirements for airlines such as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines have a standard weight limit of 23kg to 32kg. However, each airline has different policies regarding excess luggage, particularly for sporting and musical equipment.
December air travel “You’d be surprised at the number of South Africans who are caught off guard by luggage requirements. That’s why it’s crucial to seek advice from an experienced travel expert if you can’t find the information you need from the airlines directly,” Turner suggests.
“From size and weight limitations to special item restrictions and fees, a professional will ensure you’re well-prepared for your holiday and can fully savour the joy of the season without unnecessary stress.”
December air travel to mitigate luggage mishaps and save on excess charges, she highly recommends considering express couriers such as U-BAG as a hassle-free alternative to traditional airline services.
As a full-service air freight company, U-BAG proudly provides efficient national and international transportation by air — an option swiftly gaining popularity amongst South African travellers.
“Our recent partnership with this national cargo specialist exemplifies our mission to provide a seamless travel experience, particularly when it comes to transporting valuable items, sporting and musical equipment during peak travel periods,” she adds.
If you’re worried about transporting your holiday luggage and Christmas keepsakes this December, Ballotto suggests visiting their U-BAG website for a quick, no-obligation quote.
“If you find a lower quote elsewhere, our team will match it and may even apply a discount. We can also wrap your luggage for added security at no charge and provide free coverage for loss, theft, and damage to give you extra peace of mind.
“There are already many things to worry about as a South African traveller, such as flight, holiday, and visa costs. Don’t let your luggage be another source of concern,” she concludes.