We are not happy about the new charges American is imposing on checked luggage. Now only the first checked bag per person is free, extras are $25. We'll be okay on short cruises, but for most of our 7-14 day cruises that amounts to an extra $100 per round trip. We usually check two suitcases that are maxed out on dimension and weight, plus a hanging bag, and one smaller suitcase.
I haven't actually packed yet, but here are the things we are going to try:
1. Take less clothing for onboard. We spend most of our time diving anyway, so a few less changes of clothing should help. Gary will leave his sport coat behind and I am opting for dressy black slacks and tops for dinner.
2. Take fewer pairs of shoes. It always seems that we take three or more pairs each-- sneakers for walking, dress shoes, and flip flops. Plus dive booties! Gary thinks he can do without the dress shoes. Without the sport coat, who need them right? I can make it on one pair of dress shoes.
2. Since AA still allows one carry on piece of luggage and one "personal" item like a tote bag or purse we're thinking that we might utilize our mesh dive bags as our "personal" items. We should be able to carry lightweight stuff in those to relieve some of the bulk in the checked bags.
3. Use Ziplock bags to compress our clothes more. We do this already with socks and undies, but I think we could do it with shirts and shorts with good results. I am wondering about using those giant ones for the wetsuits as well.
4. Shop for lighter weight clothing. I already have two of those cotton/spandex blend shirts and love them! They breath, they stretch, they don't wrinkle, and they dry fast. I got them at Academy. If I find another source I'll post it here.
If anybody out there has great packing tips for gear or clothing we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to comment!
Airline Baggage Restrictions
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2 comments:
We have a scuba cruise coming up this fall, and like you, will probably be making due with less clothing. We also expect to do at least one load of laundry while on the 10 night voyage. Princess has self-service laundy rooms on their ships, so I will plan accordingly.
We tend to pack light to the Caribbean anyway, but now will probably take fewer "extras" like booze and formal wear. Going ona 10 night cruise will mean making due with less make-up, shoes and other things I usually pack.
We will be going on a 7 night cruise this July that calls on Roatan, Belize, Cozumel and Grand Cayman. That will be the test run, the way I see it!
I know what you mean about the "extras." I guess I won't be taking along my stash of Coke!
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