Winter packing hack could save you up to £200 in fees

Travellers heading abroad this January are being warned to pack carefully or risk facing hefty baggage charges at the airport. With freezing temperatures, icy conditions, and ongoing snowfall affecting parts of Britain, many are dreaming of a winter escape.

However, holidaymakers need to be mindful of their clothing choices – particularly bulky items worn to combat the cold. A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo has revealed chunky winter garments are among the primary culprits behind unexpected baggage fees during January travel. They explain this occurs because passengers frequently pack heavy jackets and boots without recognising how rapidly weight restrictions are breached, resulting in additional charges from airlines, which can escalate rapidly.

Baggage fees differ according airlines, destinations, and other factors. Generally, checked luggage attracts higher charges, with excess weight typically resulting in fees ranging from £12 to £25, and sometimes considerably more, for each additional kilogram above the permitted allowance. It’s best to always verify your particular airline’s regulations before departure to prevent any unwelcome surprises at check-in.

A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo stated: “Excess baggage charges can reach well over £100 per flight, with some airlines charging per kilo once limits are passed. For families or return journeys, costs can quickly reach £200 or more.”

To sidestep this problem, travel specialists suggest wearing your bulkiest clothing for the outbound flight. Heavy or lengthy coats, thick knitwear and chunky footwear consume considerable suitcase space and can rapidly add weight.

Ski Vertigo recommends wearing these pieces through the airport to create more room in your luggage and prevent weight complications at check-in. After passing through security, you can shed those outer garments to make the flight more comfortable while still benefiting from the additional capacity in your case.

The experts also suggest tucking accessories such as gloves, socks and scarves into packed footwear, as boots and trainers can take up a lot of space. This proves particularly handy on winter getaways, where such items are essential yet might be overlooked until departure day. Placing them inside shoes in checked luggage means they’re easily accessible – while offering extra cushioning for your footwear.

Ski Vertigo said restricting coats to one adaptable choice is also “key”. Numerous travellers pack several jackets “just in case”, yet end up wearing just one during the entire holiday.

A single insulated, weatherproof coat serves for airports, urban escapes and winter locations, cutting down on both bulk and weight. The spokesperson highlighted how January travellers often underestimate the strictness of baggage inspections.

Although winter journeys necessitate bulkier clothing, airline weight restrictions remain the same throughout the year. Lots of passengers find themselves facing unexpected surcharges at check-in after loading heavy items such as ski jackets and boots into their luggage.

A Reddit user posed the question: “So let’s assume you are only allowed 23kg per suitcase, but you have more. How much tolerance leeway do you have and what does it depend on? What are your experiences with excess baggage and goodwill/room for manoeuvre?”

One person simply replied: “It depends on the agent so my advice is… I wouldn’t risk it but you can if you want to invite hassle and annoy people around you.”

Another added: “Most airports I have been to they will charge you for being over the limit at all. It’s a limit for a reason. Plan on being slightly under the limit unless you want to plan to argue with the staff. Seems rude though.”