Check baggage allowances with the company you are traveling with. You can do this by going to their website or calling. Sometimes information about baggage allowance will be sent with your ticket. Make sure to find out what the weight allowance is for each bag and also what luggage fees the company might charge.
Weigh your bags on your scale. A simple bathroom scale is sufficient. There are also luggage scales available for purchase from travel stores. Once you have determined the weight allowance for your airline, train or bus company, you'll want to make sure that your bags are within range so you don't have to re-pack or pay extra fees.
Tag your luggage with your name and contact information. If your luggage is lost, this is the information the airline, train or bus company will use to get it back to you. Many stations have luggage tags available that you can fill out while you wait to check in.
Present your luggage at the check in counter. Let the person checking you in know how many bags you have to check and if you will be making any connections. Usually your bags will be taken from you at this point and sent on. Sometimes you will need to take your bags to another station nearby. The person checking you in will direct you if this is necessary.
Wait for your bags at the end of your trip. Your destination airport or station will usually have signs pointing to the baggage claim area where you will need to wait for your luggage. If you cannot find these signs, ask for directions at a help desk.
