Bring one carry-on with you on board the plane with your most sensitive, important items. Limit the liquids and gels you carry to fit in the one quart bag you're allowed to take with you. Most airlines allow at least one personal item, like a purse, briefcase or jacket, in addition to your carry-on item. Business and first-class passengers may be allowed to take an additional bag on long-haul or international flights.
Generally, the first two, or sometimes even three, pieces of checked baggage are free. Check with your carrier for the weight and size restrictions, which generally fall between 40 Ibs. and 70 lbs. Even if you're not exceeding the allowed number of bags, an overweight bag could result in an excess luggage fee.
Sporting equipment, large musical instruments and oddly shaped items are all subject to excess baggage charges, even if they fall within the weight restriction and are one of only two checked items. Pieces of child equipment, such as strollers, diaper bags and folding cribs, can still be checked at no additional charge.
