Flying can be a practical choice instead of driving a truck or car when moving. In certain circumstances, it might even be the most suitable or the only option, like when relocating to a foreign country far across the sea or when urgency is a priority to reach a specific destination.
Although it may appear overwhelming at first, with adequate planning, moving by plane can actually be affordable and relatively hassle-free. If you’re ready to leave the roads behind and embrace air travel, here are ten recommendations to ensure a smooth move.
Make sure to plan ahead
Besides looking for the best ticket prices, it is essential to research the baggage policies of various airlines early in the planning process. For instance, you can refer to the carry-on luggage size chart for 2023 to understand the restrictions. Additionally, airlines may limit the number of bags you can check during busy travel periods such as summer and the winter holidays, and they all have specific rules concerning weight and size limits.
Depending on the amount of belongings you need to bring, it may not be possible to bring everything on the flight. Therefore, it is crucial to know what the airline allows and how much it will cost before purchasing a ticket.
To gather the most up-to-date information on baggage policies, conduct online research and contact different airlines directly to inquire about their allowances and charges. It is also important to be aware of the precise size and weight limitations for checked items to avoid complications on the day of your departure.
Lighten your load
When traveling by plane and intending to bring all your belongings on board, it becomes essential to carefully consider what items to bring and what not to bring. The approach to this decision-making process depends on the permanence of your move with movers West Hollywood and the storage options available.
If you plan to return in the somewhat near future, such as going abroad for a college semester, it is likely sufficient to only bring necessary items and leave the rest at home. However, if you are making a long-term move, it is advisable to spend time reducing the possessions you own by either donating, recycling, or discarding items that are no longer needed.
Weigh before you go
Avoid the possibility of arriving at the airport only to discover that your luggage is too heavy to be checked. Instead, utilize a digital luggage scale to confirm the weight of your bags before leaving – you can find a highly recommended one for as low as $10. Additionally, most scales contain built-in tape measurers to ensure that your bags adhere to the airline’s size restrictions (and if your scale lacks one, a standard measuring tape will do).
Investing in a digital luggage scale is a minor expense compared to the anxiety of waiting at the check-in counter to ensure that your bags aren’t overweight. Heavy fees are often imposed for overweight bags, potentially exceeding your moving budget.
If flying with your pet, know what to expect
It is important to be aware of the limitations in bringing pets and other animals during air travel, as adhering to these restrictions will result in a smoother flight for all passengers. While it is essential to keep these restrictions in mind, it is advisable to reach out to your airline for specific details and to make necessary arrangements beforehand.
Please note that airlines cannot promise acceptance of an animal without physically assessing it. Carrying live animals is not mandatory for airlines, and they can refuse to transport an animal without providing a specific reason.
Minimize stress where you can
Moving by plane can be very stressful, and this stress can become even more intense compared to regular air travel. To make the process smoother, it is important to take the same steps that help minimize stress during regular air travel. One crucial step is to ensure that you have all necessary documents, such as a passport or driver’s license if you are traveling within the U.S. (if moving abroad, check the specific documents required).
Additionally, it is essential to research the guidelines on what items are allowed and not allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage, and strictly adhere to the given rules.
