Sudbury·Audio

Ditch big bags, invest in proper carry-on luggage: travel expert

If a $25 baggage-check fee is enough to make you re-think your packing strategy, expert packer Anne McAlpin has a few tips for you.
Economy-class passengers travelling within Canada, as well as those flying to and from the U.S., Caribbean and Mexico, will now have to pay $25 to check a bag on Air Canada flights. ( Stefano Buonamici/Bloomberg)
If a $25 baggage-check fee is enough to make you re-think your packing strategy, expert packer and travel writer Anne McAlpin has a few tips for you.
Packing expert Anne McAlpin advises leaving the baggage behind. (Supplied)

Air Canada followed WestJet this week and announced that economy-class passengers travelling within Canada, as well as those flying to and from the U.S., Caribbean and Mexico, will now have to pay $25 to check a bag.

According to McAlpin though, a few strategic packing moves could help you to keep the cash in your pocket.

Her tips include:

  • Invest in a light-weight, correct-sized carry-on bag
  • Use clear, resealable bags for small items like undergarments to save space and stay organized
  • Never "panic-pack": try to organize yourself several days in advance
  • Remember that when travelling, you are "there to observe, not be observed"

She spoke with CBC Sudbury Morning North radio show host Markus Schwabe on Friday. 

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